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Botulinum toxin type A is an easy and efficacious treatment for gingival smile. However, the optimal dose and injection site are controversial. The authors compared the reduction in gingival exposure using two methods with different doses and injection sites.In this prospective self-controlled study, healthy participants with gingival smile (anterior gingival exposure of3 mm) underwent two treatment methods. First, participants received a single-point injection of 2 U of botulinum toxin type A per side (simplified method). After 8 months, the individualized method was performed with 2 to 5 U of botulinum toxin type A (total, 4 to 10 U), which was injected at one or two sites according to pretreatment severity. Data were collected at baseline and at 4, 12, and 32 weeks of follow-up.Fifty-five participants were enrolled. Anterior gingival exposure and bilateral posterior gingival exposure were significantly reduced 4 and 12 weeks after botulinum toxin type A injection ( P ≤ 0.05) with both methods. These parameters returned to baseline by 32 weeks ( P0.05). Posttreatment anterior gingival exposure at 4 weeks and 12 weeks with the individualized method was significantly lower compared with the simplified method (both P ≤ 0.05). Patient satisfaction with the individualized method was preferred compared with the simplified method ( P ≤ 0.05). Few adverse events were observed with both methods without statistical significance.It is necessary to increase the injection dose and tailor the injection site according to the pretreatment severity of anterior gingival smile.

The hypertrophied temporalis and masseter muscles give a muscular shaped and bulky contour to the face. Botulinum neurotoxin injection methods are commonly used for facial contouring; however, adverse effects have been reported owing to a lack of delicate anatomical information. The anatomical considerations when injecting botulinum neurotoxin into the temporalis and masseter muscles were reviewed in the present study. Current knowledge on the localization of the botulinum neurotoxin injection point with more recent anatomical dissection and modified Sihler staining procedures was assessed. The authors found that, for the muscles, the injection point can be more precisely demarcated. Optimal injection sites are presented for the temporalis and masseter muscles, and the injection technique is suggested. The authors propose the optimal injection sites in relation to external anatomical landmarks for the frequently injected muscles of the face to facilitate the efficiency of botulinum neurotoxin injections. In addition, these guidelines would aid in more precise practice without the adverse effects of botulinum neurotoxin.

Background: DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection (DAXI) is a novel botulinum toxin type A formulation in clinical development. A phase 2 dose-ranging study identified an optimal dose and demonstrated efficacy with a median duration of 24 weeks. Methods: In two phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (SAKURA 1 and SAKURA 2), subjects with moderate or severe glabellar lines at maximum frown were assigned randomly to receive placebo or 40 U of DAXI. Glabellar lines were evaluated at least every 4 weeks for at least 24 weeks until severity returned to baseline (≤36 weeks). Results: Overall, 609 subjects were enrolled (DAXI, n = 405; placebo, n = 204). DAXI was significantly more effective than placebo in achieving the primary efficacy outcome (≥2-point improvement in glabellar line severity at maximum frown at week 4 according to both investigator and subject ratings): 73.6 percent versus 0.0 percent (SAKURA 1), and 74.0 percent versus 1.0 percent (SAKURA 2) (both p < 0.0001). Composite investigator and subject ratings of maximum frown after DAXI treatment showed that glabellar line severity of none or mild was maintained for a median of 24.0 weeks (SAKURA 1) and 23.9 weeks (SAKURA 2), and glabellar line severity did not return to baseline levels for a median of 27.7 and 26.0 weeks, respectively. DAXI was generally well tolerated, with the most common adverse events related to DAXI treatment being headache (SAKURA 1, 7.0 percent; SAKURA 2, 5.9 percent) and injection-site pain (5.0 percent and 2.4 percent, respectively). Conclusions: Results from both studies were highly consistent. DAXI may offer a prolonged duration of response (median, ≥24 weeks) and is generally well tolerated. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, I.

Botulinum toxin type A has been used to treat a wide array of neurologic, medical, and aesthetic indications. Several factors contribute to the formation of neutralizing antibodies, such as shorter intervals of treatment, higher dosage, amounts of antigenic proteins, serotypes, and storage of formulations.This overview followed the Cochrane guideline for overview reviews. The AMSTAR-2 (revised version of A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) tool was used for the critical appraisal of the selected systematic reviews.Five systematic reviews consisting of 203 studies (17,815 patients) were included, and their AMSTAR-2 scores were low to critically poor. There was high heterogeneity between the studies. Across the clinical indications, neutralizing antibody prevalence was significantly higher in dystonia, spasticity, and urologic conditions, and nil to insignificant in hyperhidrosis and aesthetic indications. The overall rate for the neutralizing antibody formation across three different formulations, abobotulinumtoxinA, incobotulinumtoxinA, and onabotulinumtoxinA, was 1 to 2.1 percent, with no significant difference between them.Although there is debate on the prevalence rate across the different botulinum toxin type A formulations in individual systematic reviews, the overall frequency of the development of neutralizing antibodies and the immunogenicity of abobotulinumtoxinA, incobotulinumtoxinA, and onabotulinumtoxinA remain low to insignificant.Properly designed comparative trials are required to explore the difference in the prevalence of neutralizing antibodies across the commercially available botulinum toxin type A products. Such studies should also examine the relevance of neutralizing antibody titer to clinical responsiveness and nonresponse.

BACKGROUND Lateral pterygoid muscle activity is associated with the pathological mechanisms of some temporomandibular disorders. The authors aimed to define and demonstrate a novel, practical, and safe technique for botulinum toxin type A injection to the lateral pterygoid muscle based on their findings. Their secondary aims were to standardize the injection pattern according to the variations of the lateral pterygoid muscle and its surrounding anatomical structures, and to establish its advantages over intraoral injection. METHODS Twenty cadaver heads were dissected. The lateral pterygoid muscle and its surrounding structures were investigated for anatomical variations. Based on these findings, a standardized extraoral injection protocol was defined and compared with the intraoral technique for accuracy and safety. RESULTS The average depth of the lateral pterygoid plate from the skin surface was 49.9 ± 2.2 mm, and the mean width of the lateral pterygoid plate was 10.5 ± 3.9 mm. The extraoral injection approach based on the location of the maxillary tuberosity, tragus, and lateral pterygoid plate was consistent in all dissections for the accuracy of the intramuscular injection. In the intraoral approach, standardization of the entry point of the needle through the oral mucosa is difficult, which makes adjustment of the depth of the injection challenging while increasing the risk of neurovascular injury. CONCLUSIONS The clinical significance of the lateral pterygoid muscle makes it worthwhile to implement minimally invasive treatments before considering more invasive options. The authors define a safe, accurate, and reliable approach with ease of administration in patients with temporomandibular disorders.

Asian Indians usually have wide lower faces because of masseter hypertrophy. The authors evaluated the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A in long-term management of bilateral masseter hypertrophy in Asian Indian patients.Fifty patients were enrolled in the study and injected with 30 U of botulinum toxin type A to each side of the face, at baseline. Based on masseter muscle thickness and response to the injections, 25 patients underwent a second injection session at week 12, and the other 25 patients underwent additional third sessions, at week 24 after the first injection, respectively. Standardized photography and ultrasonography were performed to assess facial contour and masseter muscle thickness at baseline and at 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year follow-ups. A p value0.05 was considered statistically significant.The authors observed 12 percent (p0.0001) average masseter muscle size reduction at week 12. The maximum reduction (26.6 percent; p0.0001) was observed at week 24 for the patients who received two injections and maintained an average 24.43 percent (p0.0001) reduction until follow-up at year 4. Patients who received three injections exhibited very high reduction (42.52 percent; p0.0001) of masseter volume at week 36 and maintained an average 40.64 percent (p0.0001) reduced volume until year 4.Botulinum toxin type A treatment is effective for long-term management of bilateral masseter hypertrophy. Doses repeated at 12-week intervals accentuate masseter volume reduction and also help maintain reduced masseter volume for 4-year follow-up, with satisfactory facial contour.

Botulinum neurotoxins, which are widely used commercially for therapeutic and cosmetic applications, have historically belonged to serotypes A and B. Serotype E has a distinct profile with a faster onset and shorter duration of effect. EB-001 is a proprietary formulation of serotype E in development for aesthetic (cosmetic) and therapeutic uses.This first-in-human, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, ascending-dose cohort study enrolled 42 subjects who received EB-001 (n = 35) or placebo (n = 7). The efficacy primary outcome was the proportion of subjects with a two-grade investigator-rated improvement in glabellar frown line severity at maximum frown. Safety evaluations included adverse events, laboratory tests, and physical examinations.A two-grade investigator-rated response was observed starting in the third cohort (EB-001), with increased rates observed at higher doses. Onset of clinical effect was within 24 hours, with a duration ranging between 14 and 30 days for the highest doses. Adverse event incidence was low, with the most common being mild to moderate headache. There were no serious adverse events or ptosis, and there were no clinically significant changes in other safety assessments.In this clinical study in glabellar frown lines, EB-001 showed favorable safety, tolerability, and dose-dependent efficacy, with an 80 percent response rate at the highest dose. The maximum clinical effect of EB-001 was seen within 24 hours and lasted between 14 and 30 days. This differentiated EB-001 profile supports its development for aesthetic and therapeutic applications where fast onset and short duration of effect are desirable.Therapeutic, II.

Horizontal neck wrinkles develop as a result of the aging process. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) gel, which is rich in extracellular matrix and functional cells, can be produced by a series of simple mechanical processes, including intersyringe shifting and centrifugation. This study aimed to assess stromal vascular fraction gel in the treatment of horizontal neck wrinkles.This single-center study included female patients with horizontal neck wrinkles (Fitzpatrick types II to IV) treated with either SVF gel or botulinum toxin type A (BTX A) injection. SVF gel was first diffusely distributed subcutaneously along the neck line and then injected in a diluted way intracutaneously at points 0.5 cm apart along the horizontal lines. BTX A was injected at points 1.5 cm apart (2 U in each injection site). Satisfaction and improvement scores were compared between the two groups, and the collagen content of the neck wrinkle was compared by histologic evaluation before and after treatment.Twenty-eight patients received SVF gel and 22 received BTX A. In patients with type II neck wrinkles, BTX A and SVF gel treatment resulted in similar improvement scores and patient satisfaction in the first 3 months. In patients with type III and IV neck wrinkles, SVF gel resulted in significantly higher improvement scores and better patient satisfaction. A longer duration of adverse events was seen in the SVF gel treatment group. Histologic assessment suggested that SVF gel increased the collagen density of neck wrinkles.SVF gel is an effective treatment for horizontal neck wrinkles, particularly in patients with type III and IV wrinkles.Therapeutic, II.

Background Microbotox consists of the injection of microdroplets of botulinum toxin into the dermis to improve the different lower face and neck aging components. No clinical trial has evaluated its effect on the different face and neck components and no study has compared it to the "Nefertiti lift" procedure. Methods In this crossover study, patients previously treated with the Nefertiti lift were injected using the microbotox technique. Using standardized preinjection and postinjection photographs, the jowls, marionette lines, oral commissures, neck volume, and platysmal bands at maximal contraction and at rest were assessed with validated photonumeric scales. In addition, the overall appearance of the lower face and neck was evaluated by the Investigators and Subjects Global Aesthetic Improvement Score. Pain and patient satisfaction rates were also evaluated. Results Twenty-five of the 30 patients previously treated with the Nefertiti technique were injected with a mean dose of 154 U using the microbotox technique. Platysmal bands with contraction, jowls, and neck volume reached a statistically significant improvement. The microbotox technique improved the jowls and the neck volume more than the Nefertiti technique, whereas the platysmal bands at rest and with contraction were more improved by the Nefertiti technique. One hundred percent of patients were satisfied with both techniques and rated themselves as improved. Conclusions The microbotox technique is a useful, simple, and safe procedure for lower face and neck rejuvenation. It is mainly effective in treating neck and lower face soft-tissue ptosis, in contrast to the Nefertiti technique, which is more effective on platysmal bands. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, IV.

The use of neuromodulators has increased by approximately 748 percent from 2000 to 2014 and has become an integral adjunct for facial rejuvenation. Knowledge of facial anatomy, accurate facial analysis, and familiarity with neurotoxin characteristics will minimize complications and optimize results. Current U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved neurotoxins in the United States include onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox), abobotulinumtoxin A (Dysport), and incobotulinumtoxin A (Xeomin). The dosage and effect of these products are not interchangeable, so practitioners should master the utility and response of one product before trying the other products. All products have equivalent success in appropriately trained hands; the senior author (R.J.R.) favors no particular neurotoxin. This article provides a stepwise approach to treat dynamic facial rhytides with neuromodulators, including indications, facial analysis, preparation and injection technique, post-procedure care, and complications.

Background Three formulations of botulinum toxin are available for facial rhytides. It is unclear which formulation offers the greatest balance of benefits and harms. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review with meta-analyses to compare formulations of botulinum toxin for reduction of facial rhytides at the glabella. Methods The authors' protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD4201200377). A systematic literature search was performed identifying double-blind studies. The authors assessed 1-, 3-, and 4-month follow-up. The authors performed pairwise meta-analyses using random effects models to compare response rates among the three botulinum formulations and a network meta-analysis. Results A total of 18 studies (3082 patients) were included. At 30-, 90-, and 120-day follow-up, all medications with available data showed statistically significantly increased treatment response versus placebo. Only high-dose onabotulinum toxin (compared to standard-dose onabotulinum toxin) offered additional benefit at 30 days. Exploratory analysis using network meta-analysis mostly suggested insufficient evidence of incremental benefits when comparing specific formulations. Conclusions Evidence supporting benefits versus placebo of the different formulations was clear over time. Comparisons between active formulations were rare and typically based on single trials of small to moderate sample size. The data suggest some gains with high-dose onabotulinum toxin (relative to standard dose), whereas exploratory indirect comparisons between active formulations were largely associated with inconclusive findings. Future studies should undertake head-to-head comparisons of the different formulations and ensure longer follow-up to best inform the accumulating evidence base. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, II.

Background Previous reports have objectively demonstrated the efficacy of botulinum toxin for brow elevation. No clinical trial has compared the variation of the eyebrow shape and height when the lateral eyebrow depressors are injected alone or in combination with the medial eyebrow depressors. Methods A prospective, randomized, controlled study was designed to evaluate and compare the effect of two different botulinum toxin injection techniques on brow shape and position. Patients were divided into two groups. AbobotulinumtoxinA was injected in the lateral eyebrow depressors alone (group 1) or in both the lateral and medial eyebrow depressors (group 2). Objective eyebrow measurements were performed using standardized preinjection and postinjection photographs. Patient satisfaction was also evaluated. Results Fifteen patients (30 eyebrows) were included in each group. The brow elevated by 0.6 to 2.1 mm at all positions in group 1. In group 2, the brow elevated from the medial limbus to the lateral edge of the brow (1 to 1.7 mm), with no changes at the level of the medial brow and canthus. When comparing the two injection techniques, the authors found a statistically significant difference in the change of eyebrow height at the level of the medial brow, medial canthus, and lateral brow edge. Ninety-seven percent of patients were satisfied with their results. Conclusion Different eyebrow injection techniques yield different elevation patterns. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, II.

The authors' 15-year experience with migraine surgery has led them to believe that the most common reasons for incomplete response are failure to detect all of the trigger sites or, on rare occasions, inadequate surgery on the trigger sites. Thus, accurate identification of trigger sites is essential. The purpose of this article is to share the authors' current stepwise algorithm for accurately detecting the migraine trigger sites, which has evolved through surgery on nearly 1000 patients. To begin, a thorough history is taken. Each patient's constellation of symptoms can point toward one or multiple trigger points. The patient is asked to point to the most frequent site from which migraine headaches originate with one fingertip, and then the site is explored with a Doppler. If an arterial Doppler signal is identified at the site, it is considered an active arterial trigger site. Response to a nerve block with a local anesthetic in a patient with an active migraine headache confirms the presence of a trigger site. If the patient does not have pain at the time of the office visit, an injection of botulinum toxin A at the suspected trigger site may be considered. Although positive responses to botulinum toxin A and nerve block are very helpful and reliable in confirming the trigger sites, negative responses must be interpreted with extreme caution. In patients with a migraine headache starting from the retrobulbar site, a computed tomography scan of the paranasal sinuses is obtained to look for contact points and other pathology that would confirm rhinogenic trigger sites.

The uses of botulinum toxin type A for facial aesthetic procedures have been reported in recently published studies. The authors systematically analyzed the prospective, randomized, controlled trials, which continue to expand. New efficacy data and endpoints regarding the safety of botulinum toxin type A injection for treating glabellar lines were analyzed.The authors identified randomized controlled trials of botulinum toxin type A through searches of Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Elsevier, and the Cochrane Library from January of 2002 to November of 2014. The search terms included "botulinum toxin" and "glabellar lines." Only randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials that used an injection dose of 20 units were included in the analysis. Safety was assessed by means of a meta-analysis of the number and frequency of adverse events.Seven studies involving 1474 subjects met inclusion criteria and qualified for meta-analysis. Overall, the pooled effective rate assessed by investigators in botulinum toxin type A treatment groups was significantly higher than that in controls (relative risk, 33.54; 95 percent CI, 18.65 to 60.33). The effective rate in treatment groups using a new endpoint was also higher than that in controls (relative risk, 99.04; 95 percent CI, 14.0 to 700.58). Subgroup analysis confirmed that botulinum toxin type A could improve the appearance of glabellar lines at rest (relative risk, 5.88; 95 percent CI, 3.49 to 9.91). There were no significant differences in the frequency of adverse events between the treatment and placebo groups in any of the studies.This meta-analysis shows that a single 20-unit dose of botulinum toxin type A is considered remarkably effective and safe for the treatment of glabellar lines.Therapeutic, II.

BACKGROUND The authors sought to compare the newest U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved botulinum toxin type A product, incobotulinumtoxinA, to onabotulinumtoxinA for upper face wrinkles. This is the first prospective, split-face, randomized, double-blind study addressing three types of facial wrinkles using a 1:1 dose ratio. METHODS The study was designed, institutional review board approval was obtained, and 45 patients were enrolled. A three-judge independent reviewer panel compared photographs of patients to the upper face validated assessment scales, selecting a grade ranging from 0 (no lines) to 4 (very severe) for the degree of glabellar lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines for each side of the face for photographs taken before treatment and 3 days, 2 weeks, 3 months, and 4 months after treatment. For toxin comparison, the difference in the magnitude of the degree of wrinkle scale at each period compared to before treatment was calculated and statistical analysis performed. Individual wrinkle types and all three wrinkle types combined were analyzed. RESULTS Both products offered significant reduction in individual and combined wrinkles at comparable time points; however, onabotulinumtoxinA had significantly greater combined dynamic wrinkle reduction at 3 days (p < 0.010), 2 weeks (p < 0.008), 3 months (p < 0.013), and 4 months (p < 0.045). CONCLUSIONS For identical dosage, both onabotulinumtoxinA and incobotulinumtoxinA are safe and effective in reducing dynamic wrinkles in the upper face; however, for the authors' dosages, onabotulinumtoxinA had statistically greater efficacy at 3 days, 2 weeks, 3 months, and 4 months. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, II.

Botulinum toxin type A has been widely used to correct unwanted hyperfunctional facial lines. Most forms of botulinum toxin type A currently used require reconstitution, which is very inconvenient for users. The authors compared the efficacy and safety of a newly developed liquid-type botulinum toxin type A (MT10109L) and onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) for moderate to severe glabellar lines.A double-blind, randomized, active drug-controlled, phase III study with 168 enrolled subjects was performed. The primary efficacy endpoint was the improvement rate at maximum frown at week 4 by the investigators' live assessment. The secondary efficacy endpoint included the improvement rate at maximum frown at week 16 and at rest at weeks 4 and 16 by live assessment, and the improvement rate at maximum frown and at rest based on photographic assessment at week 4. Self-assessment and self-satisfaction with glabellar line improvement were also evaluated.The improvement rate at maximum frown by live assessment was not significantly different between the MT10109L and Botox groups. In addition, the improvement rate of glabellar lines at rest based on the investigators' live assessment and photographic assessment was similar in both treatment groups. However, the improvement rate at maximum frown by live assessment at week 16 was significantly higher in the MT10109L group compared with the Botox group. There were no severe adverse events.The efficacy and safety of MT10109L were comparable to those of Botox for the management of glabellar frown lines. MT10109L provides greater convenience because it does not require dilution and has long-lasting effects.Therapeutic, II.

This second article of a three-part series addresses techniques and recommendations for aesthetic treatment of the midface. Injectable fillers are important for rejuvenation of the midface by replacing lost volume and providing structural support; neuromodulators play a smaller role in this facial region. Fillers are used for volumization and contouring of the midface regions, including the upper cheek and lid-cheek junction and the submalar and preauricular areas. Also, treatment of the frontonasal angle, the dorsum, the nasolabial angle, and the columella may be used to shape and contour the nose. Neuromodulators may be used to treat bunny lines and for elevation of the nasal tip. The midface is considered an advanced area for treatment, and injectors are advised to obtain specific training, particularly when injecting fillers near the nose, because of the risk of serious complications, including blindness and necrosis. Injections made in the midcheek must be performed with caution to avoid the infraorbital artery.

Background Upper lip wounds that lie perpendicular to the relaxed skin tension lines are subjected to repetitive dynamic tension caused by the orbicularis oris muscle and are susceptible to unsatisfactory scarring. Methods In this double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled, prospective trial, 60 consecutive patients with unilateral cleft lip undergoing primary cheiloplasties between August of 2011 and June of 2012 were randomized to receive botulinum toxin type A or vehicle injections into the subjacent orbicularis oris muscle immediately after wound closure. Scars were assessed after 6 months using the Vancouver Scar Scale, photographic visual analogue scale, and photographic scar width measurements. Results Fifty-nine patients completed the trial. Measurements of scar widths at two defined points revealed significantly better visual analogue scale scores and narrower scars in the experimental group. However, Vancouver Scar Scale assessments were similar between groups. Conclusions Botulinum toxin injections into the subjacent orbicularis oris muscle produced better appearing and narrower cheiloplasty scars, but provided no additional benefits in terms of scar pigmentation, vascularity, pliability, or height. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, II.

The objective of the study was to determine whether botulinum toxin type A injections can serve as a prognosticator for migraine surgery success.Patients who underwent migraine surgery from 2000 to 2010 by the senior author (B.G.) were reviewed. Patients were included if they had botulinum toxin type A injection before surgery; had completed postinjection, postsurgery Migraine Headache Questionnaires; and had at least 1-year follow-up. Outcome variables include patient demographics and Migraine Headache Index. Treatment success was defined as at least a 50 percent reduction in Migraine Headache Index.One hundred eighty-eight patients were included; 144 reported successful migraine headache reduction after injection (success group) and 44 did not (failure group). The groups were well matched for age, migraine headache characteristics, and number of surgical sites (p0.05). The surgery success rate was significantly higher in the success group overall (90.3 percent versus 72.3, p = 0.003), and in patients who reported botulinum toxin type A success and subsequent same-site surgery (97.9 percent versus 71.4 percent, p0.0001). Botulinum toxin type A success was prognostic for surgery success at the frontal trigger site (trigger site I) (92.5 percent versus 69.2 percent, p = 0.012), the temporal trigger site (trigger site II) (95.5 percent versus 73.3 percent, p = 0.005), and the occipital trigger site (trigger site IV) (95.9 percent versus 62.5 percent, p = 0.0003). Six patients had exclusively septum or turbinate (site III) surgery, and all failed injections.Positive botulinum toxin type A response is a significant predictor of migraine surgery success. When injections fail, nonmuscular abnormalities should be considered.

One of the most serious complications of breast surgery using implants is capsular contracture. Several preventive treatments have been introduced; however, the mechanism of capsule formation has not been resolved completely. The authors previously identified negative effects of botulinum toxin type A on capsule formation, expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Thus, the authors investigated how to prevent capsule formation by using botulinum toxin type A, particularly by means of TGF-β1 signaling, in human fibroblasts.In vitro, cultured human fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β1 and/or botulinum toxin type A. Expression of collagen, matrix metalloproteinase, and Smad was examined by Western blotting. The activation of matrix metalloproteinase was observed by gelatin zymography. In vivo, the effect of botulinum toxin type A on the phosphorylation of Smad2 in silicone-induced capsule formation was evaluated by immunocytochemistry.In vitro, the phosphorylation of Smad2 was inhibited by botulinum toxin type A treatment. The expression levels of collagen types 1 and 3 were inhibited by botulinum toxin type A treatment, whereas those of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were enhanced. Gelatin zymography experiments confirmed enhanced matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity in collagen degradation. In vivo, botulinum toxin type A treatment reduced capsule thickness and Smad2 phosphorylation in silicone-induced capsules.This study suggests that botulinum toxin type A plays an important role in the inhibition of capsule formation through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway.Therapeutic, V.

Sir:Salles et al. report an important cohort of patients treated with botulinum toxin for facial paralysis sequelae,1 detailing very interesting epidemiologic data on etiologic and therapeutic levels and describing thoroughly the use of botulinum toxin in this indication. The authors mainly use botu

Facial synkinesis comprises unwanted facial muscle contractions in different facial muscle groups following voluntary ones, in cases of incomplete recovery from facial paralysis. Facial expressivity and function are impaired, and the psychological integrity of the patients is seriously affected.Thirty-one adult patients (older than 18 years) presenting with post-facial paralysis synkinesis were included in this study. The mean patient age was 39.6 years and the mean denervation time was 124 months.There were five patient groups. Group A (n = 9) underwent cross-facial nerve grafting and secondary microcoaptations. Group B (n = 8) had cross-facial nerve grafting, secondary microcoaptations, and botulinum toxin type A injections. Group C (n = 6) received cross-facial nerve grafting, secondary microcoaptations, botulinum toxin type A, and selective neurectomies. Group D (n = 2) underwent cross-facial nerve grafting, direct muscle neurotization, and botulinum toxin type A. Group E underwent other means of treating synkinesis (n = 6), such as botulinum injections alone (n = 1), biofeedback alone (n = 2), biofeedback with selective neurectomies and myectomies (n = 2), and biofeedback and botulinum injections (n = 1). Group B had the highest synkinesis improvement (100 percent), followed by groups A and C (66 percent). Functional results were improved, with smile improvement being higher in group C and eye closure being higher in groups A, B, and E.Meticulous patient selection and evaluation followed by an individualized form of treatment, most frequently including cross-facial nerve grafting and secondary microcoaptations along with botulinum toxin type A and biofeedback including facial muscle retraining, constitute an effective and reliable methodology with which to combat post-facial paralysis synkinesis.Therapeutic, IV.

This study was designed to assess whether preoperative trigger-site confirmation using botulinum toxin type A injections significantly improved migraine surgery outcomes.The medical charts of 335 migraine surgery patients were reviewed. Patients who received stepwise diagnostic botulinum toxin type A injections were placed in the botulinum toxin type A group (n = 245). Patients who did not receive botulinum toxin type A or received only therapeutic botulinum toxin type A were placed in the control group (n = 90). The preoperative and 12-month postoperative migraine headache frequency, duration, and intensity were compared to determine the success of the operations.Seventy-two of 90 control patients (80 percent) experienced a significant improvement (a decrease of at least 50 percent in migraine headache frequency, duration, or intensity) at 12 months after surgery, with 29 (32 percent) reporting complete elimination. Of the 245 botulinum toxin type A patients, 207 (84 percent) experienced a significant improvement, with 89 (36 percent) experiencing complete elimination. The surgical success rate of the botulinum toxin type A group was not significantly higher than that of the control group (p = 0.33).Confirmation of trigger sites using botulinum toxin type A does not significantly improve the outcome of migraine surgery. Although botulinum toxin type A can be a useful diagnostic tool, this study demonstrates that there is no statistically significant difference between the injection of botulinum toxin type A and the use of a constellation of symptoms to identify trigger sites.Therapeutic, III.

Background: This study was designed to assess the long-term efficacy of surgical deactivation of migraine headache trigger sites. Methods: One hundred twenty-five volunteers were randomly assigned to the treatment (n 100) or control group (n 25) after examination by the team neurologist to ensure a diagnosis of migraine headache. Patients were asked to complete the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, Migraine-Specific Quality of Life, and Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaires before treatment and at 12- and 60-month postoperative follow-up. The treatment group received botulinum toxin to confirm the trigger sites; controls received saline injections. Treated patients underwent surgical deactivation of trigger site(s). Results were analyzed at 1 year (previously published) and 5 years postoperatively (the subject of this report). Results: Eighty-nine of 100 patients in the treatment group underwent surgery, and 79 were followed for 5 years. Ten patients underwent deactivation of additional (different) trigger sites during the follow-up period and were not included in the data analysis. The final outcome with or without inclusion of these 10 patients was not statistically different. Sixty-one (88 percent) of 69 patientshaveexperiencedapositiveresponsetothesurgeryafter5years.Twenty (29 percent) reported complete elimination of migraine headache, 41 (59 percent) noticed a significant decrease, and eight (12 percent) experienced no significant change. When compared with the baseline values, all measured variables at 60 months improved significantly (p 0.0001). Conclusion: Based on the 5-year follow-up data, there is strong evidence that surgical manipulation of one or more migraine trigger sites can successfully eliminateorreducethefrequency,duration,andintensityofmigraineheadache in a lasting manner. (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 127: 603, 2011.)

Background: Many of the nearly 30 million Americans suffering with migraine headaches are not helped by standard therapies, a proportion of which can harbor undesirable side effects. The present study demonstrates the efficacy of independent surgical deactivation of three common migraine headache trigger sites through a double-blind, sham surgery, controlled clinical trial. Methods: Seventy-five patients with moderate to severe migraine headache who met International Classification of Headache Disorders II criteria were studied. Trigger sites were identified (frontal, temporal, and occipital), and patients were randomly assigned to receive either actual or sham surgery in their predominant trigger site. Patients completed the Migraine Disability Assessment, Migraine-Specific Quality of Life, and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey health questionnaires before treatment and at 1-year follow-up. Results: Of the total group of 75 patients, 15 of 26 in the sham surgery group (57.7 percent) and 41 of 49 in the actual surgery group (83.7 percent) experienced at least 50 percent reduction in migraine headache (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 28 of 49 patients in the actual surgery group (57.1 percent) reported complete elimination of migraine headache, compared with only one of 26 patients in the sham surgery group (3.8 percent) (p< 0.001). Compared with the control group, the actual surgery group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all validated migraine headache measurements at 1 year. These improvements were not dependent on the trigger site. The most common surgical complication was slight hollowing of the temple in the group with temporal migraine headache. Conclusion: This study confirms that surgical deactivation of peripheral migraine headache trigger sites is an effective alternative treatment for patients who suffer from frequent moderate to severe migraine headaches that are difficult to manage with standard protocols.

Background: After flexor tendon repair, tendon gapping or rupture may be replaced by joint stiffness and poor function. After surgical repair of injured flexor tendons, botulinum toxin type A was injected into the forearm flexor muscles. This selectively decreased the force of muscle contraction. During this period of partial muscle denervation, patients could generate enough force to allow for early active mobilization (with its attendant benefits) but insufficient force to induce gapping or rupture of the repaired tendon. Methods: Eighteen adult patients with zone 2 flexor tendon injuries (34 digits) were studied prospectively for up to 3 years. Tendons were repaired using the modified Kessler technique and marked with stainless steel wire. Botulinum toxin was injected into the appropriate proximal flexor muscle belly under localizing electromyographic control. A matched cohort consisted of 53 patients (104 digits). Results: Results were assessed according to range of joint motion (Kleinert and Verdan criteria) and electromyographic and radiologic studies. Ninety-four percent had excellent results and 6 percent of digits had good results. There were no patients with fair or poor results. Average active range of motion was 244 degrees at 18 months. No gapping or ruptures occurred and no tenolyses were required. The control group of matched controls (modified Kessler repair; no botulinum injection) showed that 81 percent of digits had excellent results, 6 percent had good results, 8 percent had fair results, and 6 percent had poor results. Conclusions: Botulinum toxin injection statistically significantly improves the results of flexor tendon repair. The authors have termed this technique "chemoprotection" of flexor tendon repairs.

Treating patients with Raynaud's phenomenon who have chronic pain and ulcerations is extremely challenging. Unrelenting pain can lead to dysfunction and disuse, rendering the patient debilitated and/or chronically depressed. Pharmacologic vasodilators and surgical sympathectomies offer variable benefits. Outcomes of symptomatic patients treated with botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections for Raynaud's phenomenon are presented.A retrospective study focused on patient outcomes was performed on 19 patients diagnosed with Raynaud's phenomenon. Patients suffered from chronic ischemic hand pain. All patients had vascular studies to rule out occlusive disease. Fifty to 100 units of Botox were injected into the palm around each involved neurovascular bundle. Preinjection and postinjection laser Doppler scanning was performed on most patients to measure blood flow.Sixteen of 19 patients (84 percent) reported pain reduction at rest. Thirteen patients reported immediate relief; three reported more gradual pain reduction over 1 to 2 months. Three patients had no or minimal pain relief. Tissue perfusion results demonstrated a marked change in blood flow (-48.15 percent to 425 percent) to the digits. All patients with chronic finger ulcers healed within 60 days. Most patients [n = 12 (63 percent)] remained pain-free (13 to 59 months) with a single-injection schedule. Four patients (21 percent) required repeated injections because of recurrent pain.Vascular function is abnormal in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon. Although its mechanism is unknown, Botox yielded a distinct improvement in perfusion and reduction in pain in patients failing conservative management. Continued research may lead to more specific and reliable treatment for Raynaud's patients.

Surgical decompression of various trigger sites has been shown by two authors to relieve migraine headaches. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of surgical decompression of multiple migraine trigger sites in a clinical practice setting, and to compare the results to those previously published.A retrospective, descriptive analysis was performed on 18 consecutive patients who had undergone various combinations of surgical decompression of the supraorbital, supratrochlear, and greater occipital nerves and zygomaticotemporal neurectomy performed by a single surgeon. All patients had been diagnosed with migraine headaches according to neurologic evaluation and had undergone identification of trigger sites by botulinum toxin type A injections.The number of migraines per month and the pain intensity of migraine headaches decreased significantly. Three patients (17 percent) had complete relief of their migraines, and 50 percent of patients (nine of 18) had at least a 75 percent reduction in the frequency, duration, or intensity of migraines. Thirty-nine percent of patients have discontinued all migraine medications. Mean follow-up was 16 months (range, 6 to 41 months) after surgery. One hundred percent of participants stated they would repeat the surgical procedure.This study confirms prior published results and supports the theory that peripheral nerve compression triggers a migraine cascade. The authors have verified a reduction in duration, intensity, and frequency of migraine headaches by surgical decompression of the supraorbital, supratrochlear, zygomaticotemporal, and greater occipital nerves. A significant amount of patient screening is required for proper patient selection and trigger site identification for surgical success.

Background Botulinum toxin type A is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of facial rhytides. However, the complete spectrum of action of botulinum toxin A has not yet been completely defined. Little is known about the metabolism of muscle after botulinum toxin A injection. This information may give insight into the additional effects botulinum toxin A may have on muscle. The authors assessed the influence of botulinum toxin A on the metabolism of muscle using dynamic investigative techniques. Methods Twenty New Zealand White rabbits were divided into control, paralysis, and sham groups. Masseter muscle paralysis was achieved with botulinum toxin A. Dynamic computed tomographic and positron emission tomographic scans were obtained. Masseter muscle blood flow, blood volume, permeability surface, and mean transit time and glucose uptake were measured. Results Eighteen animals completed the study. Masseter blood perfusion showed consistent results across all parameters. Blood flow, blood volume, and permeability surface were significantly increased at weeks 4 and 8 on the paralyzed side. Mean transit time at week 4 was decreased on the paralyzed side. Positron emission tomographic scans showed that injected muscles in the botulinum toxin A group tended to have increased glucose uptake compared with untreated muscles. Conclusions Botulinum toxin A injection increases muscle blood perfusion parameters and glucose uptake for a transient period. This increase is similar in duration to the known interval of botulinum toxin A-induced paralysis. These changes have been identified in a dynamic fashion and may represent changes in calcitonin gene-related peptide release.

Paralysis of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve is frequently seen in patients with oromandibular reconstructions or facial palsy. However, deformities caused by overpulling of the depressor muscles of the contralateral lower lip without being antagonized by the diseased counterpart is often quite conspicuous. Depressor myectomy of the contralateral lower lip therefore provides a method for correcting the dynamic deformity.Seventy-six patients with paralysis of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve were treated with either surgical depressor myectomy of the lower lip (25 patients), depressor myectomy with subsequent botulinum toxin injection (eight patients), or only chemical depressor myectomy with botulinum toxin injections (43 patients).Good to fair results were always achieved, with near balance of the lower lip during mouth opening and in facial expressions. Surgical myectomy may still result in recurrence in eight patients (24 percent), which will necessitate further treatment with botulinum toxin injections.Using myectomy for paralysis of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve can be an effective treatment for this significant deformity. Chemical myectomy with botulinum toxin injection is a safe and convenient mode of treatment; however, the disadvantage is that it needs repeated injections and costs more.

Background Patient satisfaction is a key measure of success when using botulinum toxin type A to treat glabellar rhytides. However, lack of a standardized method of assessing satisfaction has limited its evaluation. Methods In this open-label study, 58 women with moderate or severe glabellar rhytides at maximum frown were treated with 20 units of botulinum toxin type A (divided injections in corrugator and procerus muscles). Patients' self-perceptions were assessed at baseline and the following were assessed at days 30 and 120: investigator- and patient-rated global assessment of change in glabellar line severity, patient self-perception of age, and patient satisfaction with the effects of treatment and the procedure itself (using the Facial Lines Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire). Results Overall, patients had a positive self-image at baseline. At day 30, the investigator reported that all patients had 50 percent or greater improvement in glabellar line severity. At days 30 and 120, 95 percent and 86 percent of patients, respectively, reported satisfaction with treatment overall and 82 percent or more reported satisfaction with various aspects of the effects of treatment (time to onset of action, improvement in facial lines and appearance, and appearing better and relaxed) and the procedure itself (absence of downtime and side effects). More than one-third of patients considered that they looked younger than they did before treatment (by a median of 5 years at both time points). Conclusions Botulinum toxin type A treatment of glabellar rhytides resulted in high levels of patient satisfaction, and more than one-third of patients thought they appeared younger than they did before treatment.

Background This study was proposed to evaluate the facial contour and electrophysiologic changes of the masseter and temporalis muscles before and after botulinum toxin A injection in the wide lower face (square face). Methods The botulinum toxin A injections were performed on 10 patients for the treatment of square face with masseter hypertrophy. To obtain an objective evaluation of the change in the facial contour, physical measurements, cephalometry, and clinical photographs were taken; and for evaluation of the function of the masseter and temporalis muscles, electromyographic studies were performed before and 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12 months after treatment. Results By physical measurements and cephalometry, the maximal reduction in lower facial contour (mean reduction, 6.6 mm by physical measurements and 7.5 mm by cephalometry) was observed 3 months after the injection, and increased slowly until 12 months after treatment. The maximal amplitude of the right and left masseter muscles decreased to the lowest value 1 month after treatment, with continuous increase being observed thereafter. There were statistically significant differences at all of the follow-up time points in reduction of lower facial contour by physical measurements and in electromyographic studies of the left masseter muscles. There was no hypertrophy of the temporalis muscle to compensate for the atrophy of the masseter muscles. Conclusions In this study, there was a 2-month interval between the lowest value of the maximal amplitude of the surface electromyography and the maximal clinical effects following botulinum toxin A injection, and there was similarity between the recovery of the masseter function and the diminution of the clinical effect. The clinical effect of botulinum toxin A persisted for 12 months after treatment on physical measurements, and the authors felt that this long-lasting effect of botulinum toxin A beyond expectation could be explained by incomplete recovery of muscle function.

Background: Masseteric hypertrophy is recognized as an asymptomatic enlargement of one or both masseter muscles. Botulinum toxin type A injection into the masseter muscle can be alternatively used as a noninvasive treatment for masseteric hypertrophy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different quantities of botulinum toxin type A on the thickness and cross-sectional area and electromyographic changes in the masseter muscle using computed tomography and electromyographic measurement. Methods: Thirty-two Korean subjects were enrolled in this study. Twenty-five units of botulinum toxin type A was injected bilaterally in the masseter muscle of 16 subjects, and 35 U was injected bilaterally in the remaining 16. The thickness and cross-sectional area of the masseter muscle were measured at three positions before and 12 weeks after injection using computed tomography. The electromyographic changes in the masseter muscle during maximum voluntary clenching were also evaluated before and 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after injection. The difference in the results was statistically analyzed. Results: Statistically significant differences before and after injection were observed when the dimensions and electromyographic values of the masseter muscle were evaluated. However, there was no significant difference between the 25-U and 35-U injections of botulinum toxin type A. The least reduction of muscle thickness was found at the site farthest from the injection point. Several mild side effects were reported, all of which were temporary and localized. Conclusions: Botulinum toxin type A is effective in treating hypertrophy of the masseter muscle, but the dose of the toxin is not associated with its effectiveness within the limits of this study.

Background Patients with longstanding facial paralysis often exhibit synkinesis. Few reports describe the prevalence and factors related to the development of synkinesis after facial paralysis. Botulinum toxin type A injection is an important adjunct treatment for facial paralysis-induced asymmetry and synkinesis. The authors assessed the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of patients with sequelae of facial paralysis treated with botulinum toxin type A injections to evaluate the prevalence of synkinesis and related factors. Methods A total of 353 patients (age, 4 to 84 years; 245 female patients) with longstanding facial paralysis underwent 2312 botulinum toxin type A injections during an 11-year follow-up. Doses used over the years, previous treatments (electrical stimulation, operations), and how they correlated to postparalysis and postreanimation synkinesis were analyzed. Results There was a significant association between cause and surgery. Most patients with facial paralysis caused by a congenital defect, trauma, or a tumor underwent reanimation. There were no sex- or synkinesis-related differences in the doses used, but the doses were higher in the reanimation group than in the no-surgery group. Synkinesis was found in 196 patients; 148 (41.9 percent) presented with postparalysis synkinesis (oro-ocular, oculo-oral) and 58 (16.4 percent) presented with postreanimation synkinesis. Ten patients presented with both types. Conclusions This study determined the high prevalence (55.5 percent) of synkinesis in patients with longstanding facial paralysis. Postparalysis synkinesis was positively associated with infectious and idiopathic causes, electrical stimulation, facial nerve decompression, and no requirement for surgery. Postreanimation synkinesis was present in 28.2 percent of reanimated patients and was significantly associated with microsurgical flaps, transfacial nerve grafting, masseteric-facial anastomosis, and temporalis muscle transfers.

The use of botulinum toxin in the lower face is more complex and less reliable than its use in the upper face. Use in the lower face is also fraught with more adverse events. The anatomy of the lower face is complex, as the muscles of this region are very close together and interface at different levels and depths to perform heterogeneous functions, such as talking, eating, drinking, and expressivity of the face. This article, based on the anatomical knowledge of each muscle of the lower face, provides recommendations and guidelines to perform botulinum toxin injection safely. The review of each muscle with its relevant anatomy and relationship of this three-dimensional anatomy with the cutaneous plane gives the exact position of injectable locations. For each muscle, the number of points related to the motor end plate location and the exact dose related to the muscular mass are indicated. Summary tables are provided.

Wounds of the face, especially those lying perpendicular to the lines of Langer, are known to heal poorly with conspicuous scarring. Different methods have been tried to tackle this problem, including corticosteroid injections, irradiation, ultrasound, silicone applications, and many others. However, as expected, their effects were far from satisfactory, because they do nothing to alleviate the underlying pathologic process, which is the distracting effect of muscle pull on immature collagen.In 40 patients with ugly scars of the face, botulinum toxin was used to induce temporary paralysis of the muscles during revision surgery, thus minimizing tension on healing wound edges until the collagen could mature.Using both objective and subjective assessment scales, 90 percent of patients ended up with an improved outcome. This new technique has been proven effective in primates and in this study was shown to be as effective in humans, yielding results superior to those of any other treatment modality.In view of the results of this study, it is considered worthwhile to offer patients with ugly scars of the face botulinum toxin injections simultaneous with revision surgery.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to define the anatomical relationship between the orbicularis oculi muscle and the levator labii superioris/zygomaticus major. Methods: Forty-eight sides of 24 preserved cadaver heads were evaluated. The Frankfort plane, the lateral canthus, and the midpupillary line were marked on each hemiface as landmarks. Four parallel incisions were made perpendicular to the inferior orbital rim and the Frankfort horizontal line. The incisions were midpupillary, lateral canthus, 1 cm lateral to the lateral canthus, and 2 cm lateral to the lateral canthus. Within each incision, measurements were performed that included the depth of the zygomaticus major from the orbicularis oculi (i.e., how superficial is the orbicularis above the zygomaticus complex), the superior to inferior distance between the Frankfort line and the origin of the zygomaticus major, the height of the orbicularis oculi muscle above the levator labii muscle (i.e., how superficial is the orbicularis above the levator in the midpupillary line), and how inferior to the inferior orbital rim is the origin of the levator labii superioris. Results: The orbicularis oculi muscle was on average 0.5 cm superficial to the zygomaticus major muscle group at 2 cm lateral to the lateral canthus. At this site, the female cadaver zygomaticus muscle depth was approximately 2 mm deeper versus the male cadavers (0.60 cm versus 0.41 cm). On average, the origin of the zygomaticus major was identified 1.40 cm and 1.50 cm inferior to the Frankfort horizontal line at 1 cm lateral to and at the lateral canthus, respectively. Of note, there were 14 instances (15 percent) in which the muscle group was found to be 1 cm or less from the Frankfort horizontal line. At 1 cm lateral to the lateral canthus and at the lateral canthus, the zygomaticus muscle was seen to interdigitate with the orbicularis muscle. On average, the orbicularis oculi muscle lies 0.80 cm superficial to the levator labii muscle complex. The superficial border of the malar eminence also lies at or near the Frankfort line. Conclusions: An exact understanding of the location of specific muscle groups can help prevent poor outcomes, such as the lip droop occasionally seen with Botox injections. The Frankfort line may be a more appropriately used landmark for the safe placement of Botox than the commonly used malar eminence.

Background: Bell's palsy is an idiopathic neuropathy of cranial nerve VII, and the incidence ranges from 15 to 40 per 100,000. The majority of patients recover, but up to 16 percent of patients have significant sequelae. The phenomenon of the late recovered Bell's palsy has the following specific features and has not formerly been described: (1) tightening of the facial muscles, with a deepening nasolabial fold and reduced palpebral fissure; (2) blepharospasm; and (3) incomplete recovery of peripheral VIIth nerve branches, with ipsilateral forehead paralysis, reduced depressor anguli oris function, and poor excursion of the angle of the mouth on smiling. Methods: Nonsurgical treatment involved four monthly botulinum toxin injections. Patients had injections to paralyze the ipsilateral orbicularis oculi, contralateral forehead rhytides, and depressor anguli oris and to treat blepharospasm and muscle tightness. The effectiveness of the botulinum toxin injections on facial symmetry and patient appreciation of this were assessed by measuring brow height and teeth exposure before and 3 weeks after injection. Results: Twenty-three patients were followed up for a mean period of 37 months. The difference in brow height and teeth exposure after injection was less than preinjection measurements, but this did not reach statistical significance. Patient self-assessments showed improvements in their appreciation of the facial symmetry, ability to go out in public, and feelings of self-worth (visual analogue scale). Surgical treatment options include ipsilateral brow lift, division of the contralateral frontal branch, contralateral tarsorrhaphy to equalize the palpebral fissures, and bilateral upper blepharoplasty. Conclusions: The true benefit of botulinum toxin injections was more apparent during facial animation and not when the face was static. The patients greatly appreciated the improvement in facial symmetry. Various treatment options are available to improve the quality of life for patients with late recovered Bell's palsy.