01 / ASSESSMENT & CARE
Unwanted linked movements
Examples include eye closure or narrowing when smiling or chewing, or movement at the corner of the mouth when closing the eye. These linked movements are assessed before planning treatment.
Botulinum toxin may help reduce facial spasms and unwanted linked movements after facial palsy, improving movement and smile symmetry in selected patients.
Your plan begins with an assessment of facial movement, muscle strength and treatment suitability.
These are areas for assessment and discussion, rather than a recommendation for everyone to have injections. The doctor identifies what may improve and which functions need protection.
Examples include eye closure or narrowing when smiling or chewing, or movement at the corner of the mouth when closing the eye. These linked movements are assessed before planning treatment.
Assessment of troublesome contractions and overactive muscles, with a discussion of whether relaxing them may relieve your symptoms.
Assessment of balance between the two sides, including overactivity on the unaffected side, and discussion of injections and rehabilitation when appropriate.
A published comparison of a patient with linked mouth–eye movements. Photographs show the face at rest, smiling and puckering the lips, before injections and one month afterwards.
The doctor assesses eyebrow, eyelid, mouth and smile movements, muscle strength, symptoms and medical history.
Small amounts are injected with a fine needle into muscles selected during the examination. Treatment usually takes place in the clinic, with a return home afterwards.
Your response is reviewed to plan follow-up and decide whether repeat injections are needed. Specialist facial rehabilitation may be added where appropriate.
Changes may begin within days, with the full effect usually developing over one to two weeks. These timings are approximate and responses vary.
There is no single repeat-treatment schedule for everyone. The doctor considers your response, function and symptoms.
It does not repair the damaged nerve or treat the cause of paralysis. It is used to manage certain after-effects, particularly tightness, spasms and unwanted linked movements during or after recovery.
Yes. It may be combined with specialist facial rehabilitation according to your needs. Exercises should be tailored and guided by a specialist.
Minor bruising or local pain may occur. Depending on the injection site, effects can include dry eye, temporary eyelid or mouth-corner drooping, or double vision. The doctor discusses these risks, especially if you already have difficulty closing your eye.
Discuss your medications, previous treatments, any difficulty closing your eye, swallowing or breathing, and any known neurological or muscle conditions or allergies before deciding on treatment.
Contact the clinic for the assessment fee. Treatment costs are discussed after suitability, target muscles and the treatment plan have been established.
Book an assessment of facial palsy after-effects to discuss which symptoms may improve and what results to expect.
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The clinic confirms your appointment after contacting you. Phone links open your dialler; email links open your configured email app.
