What Is Selective Neurolysis? (Infographic)

Selective neurolysis, also referred to as modified selective neurectomy, is the first permanent facial paralysis treatment. It is performed exclusively by globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh.

What Makes Selective Neurolysis Unique?

During selective neurolysis, Dr. Azizzadeh corrects “mis-wiring” of the facial nerve that can otherwise hamper a facial paralysis patient’s ability to produce facial expressions.

What Types of Facial Paralysis Can Be Treated with Selective Neurolysis?

• Bell’s palsy
• Synkinesis
• Ramsay hunt syndrome
• Partial facial paralysis

Selective Neurolysis Benefits

• Enhanced facial symmetry
• Improved facial muscle coordination
• Less functional tightness in the face
• Restoration of a dynamic smile

Are You a Candidate for Selective Neurolysis?

Dr. Azizzadeh requests a consultation to determine if a facial paralysis patient qualifies for selective neurolysis.

What to Expect During a Selective Neurolysis Consultation

During a selective neurolysis consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh:

• Evaluates a patient’s ability to make facial expressions
• Reviews a patient’s medical history
• Offers a personalized facial paralysis treatment recommendation

What to Expect During a Selective Neurolysis Procedure

• The facial nerves are mapped out via intraoperative electromyography (EMG).
• The platysma muscle is released; this muscle pulls the corner of the mouth down and makes it difficult to smile.
• Facial nerve activity is reduced; this activity pulls the mouth downward.
• The facial nerves’ buccal branch is rerouted to the zygomatic branch or muscle; this improves facial nerve signals required to produce a dynamic smile.

What to Expect After Selective Neurolysis

Dr. Azizzadeh may request a patient use a neuromuscular retraining program to strengthen the facial muscles and enhance facial symmetry after treatment. He may also request periorbital and contra lateral Botox to reduce unwanted facial muscle movements.

Is Selective Neurolysis Effective?

A study of 63 facial paralysis patients revealed participants experienced no serious complications after selective neurolysis. Also, the study showed that selective neurolysis can be used to address functional and smile dysfunction.

Can Selective Neurolysis Be Performed with Other Facial Rejuvenation Procedures?

Selective neurolysis may be performed with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as:

• Asymmetric Facelift: Corrects facial asymmetry
• Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Treats droopy eyelids and may involve the removal of excess fat, muscle, and skin from around the eyes
• Neck Lift: Addresses signs of aging in the neck and jawline

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