For individuals grappling with synkinesis and involuntary facial muscle spasms, selective myectomy is an effective solution. Dr. DeVictor offers selective myectomy to enhance facial balance and control, helping you reclaim natural facial movements.
Restore Natural
Facial Movements
& Expressions
Selective myectomy is a surgical technique aimed at addressing the challenges posed by synkinesis and involuntary facial muscle movements. In this procedure, specific facial muscles are severed to alleviate the pressure responsible for muscle tightness and unwanted facial contractions. Depending on the patient’s unique condition, the surgeon may opt to cut muscles on the affected side, the healthy side, or both sides of the face.
Selective myectomy can also be a solution for individuals experiencing discomfort or functional limitations due to overly tight or spastic facial muscles. These symptoms may include difficulties opening and closing the eyes, speaking, turning the head, or conveying facial expressions. In such cases, selective myectomy is performed with a selective neurectomy, a procedure that cuts misfiring nerves that contribute to irregular facial movements.
Selective Myectomy Corrects:
- Synkinesis-related facial asymmetry
- Involuntary facial muscle movements
- Spastic or overly tight facial muscles
- Difficulty in opening and closing the eyes
- Challenging or uncomfortable facial expressions
- Neck and jaw pain due to muscle tightness
- Impaired speech or articulation
- Difficulty turning the head
Recovery After Selective Myectomy
In the initial days after selective myectomy, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical site. These are common side effects and should gradually subside over the first week or two. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently, which may include keeping your head elevated, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, and taking prescribed pain medications. Most patients can return to their usual routine within a few weeks, but individual recovery times can vary.
Selective Myectomy FAQs
Who is a good candidate for selective myectomy?
Ideal candidates for selective myectomy are individuals experiencing synkinesis, involuntary facial muscle movements, or discomfort due to overly tight or spastic facial muscles. An evaluation by Dr. DeVictor is necessary to determine if this procedure is right for you.
What can I expect during the recovery period?
After selective myectomy, you can anticipate some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical site. These are normal side effects and should subside within a week or two. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, such as keeping your head elevated and using cold compresses, is crucial for a smooth recovery.
Are there any risks or potential complications associated with selective myectomy?
Like any surgical procedure, selective myectomy carries some risks. Potential complications may include infection, scarring, asymmetry, or nerve damage. However, these risks are typically low when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. DeVictor.
Will I have visible scars after selective myectomy?
While some scarring is inevitable with surgery, Dr. DeVictor aims to minimize scarring and place incisions in inconspicuous locations whenever possible. Over time, the surgical scars tend to fade and become less noticeable.
Will I lose the ability to make facial expressions after selective myectomy?
Selective myectomy targets specific muscles while preserving and optimizing the ability to make expressions. The goal is to restore balance and control, not eliminate expressions altogether. You should still be able to convey emotions and facial expressions after the procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. DeVictor
Dr. DeVictor is a highly qualified facial plastic surgeon with board certification in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. If you’re considering a selective myectomy to address facial muscle-related concerns and facial reanimation, schedule your consultation with Dr. DeVictor today. With his expertise and commitment to patient care, he can provide personalized guidance and recommendations to help you achieve optimal outcomes for your specific needs.