Use of botulinum toxin in facial paralysis.

Facial paralysis triggers aesthetic and functional changes that hold significant physical and psychological repercussions to those suffering from this condition. Botulinum toxin may be used to reduce the facial asymmetry encountered in patients suffering from facial paralysis. The onset of improvement starts usually 15 days after the injection. Patients' satisfaction increases with time, especially after 30 days. Adverse events concerning the perioral area are found but resume as the patients get used to the new dynamics. The use of botulinum toxin is effective in decreasing the hyperkinesis contralateral to facial paralysis. The global aesthetic aspect of the face improves.