Can Synkinesis Be Treated Without Surgery?

One of the problems frequently encountered after facial paralysis and affecting patients' quality of life is synkinesis, or involuntary facial muscle movements. Many people believe that this condition can only be corrected with surgical intervention; however, today, synkinesis can be effectively managed with non-surgical methods. If you are curious about the non-surgical treatment methods used for synkinesis, you can take a look at our content. We wish you all healthy days and good work.

Is Non-Surgical Treatment for Synkinesis Possible?

One of the most frequently asked questions about non-surgical treatment is, “Is non-surgical treatment for synkinesis possible?” To give a definitive answer, yes, it is possible. In this context, non-surgical treatment methods aim to reduce muscle movements and restore control of the facial muscles. Therefore, patients experiencing synkinesis can undergo non-surgical treatments such as botulinum toxin (Botox), facial rehabilitation, and physical therapy. The treatment process for these procedures generally varies between a few weeks and a few months, but regular follow-up and repetition of sessions are required. At the same time, these methods are highly successful in mild and moderate cases; in severe and resistant cases, additional treatment or surgical options may be considered. Ultimately, early intervention increases the effectiveness of treatment and significantly improves patients' quality of daily life.

When Should Non-Surgical Treatment for Synkinesis Be Applied?

Another frequently asked question regarding non-surgical treatment processes is at what stage non-surgical treatment should be applied for synkinesis. In this context, we can say that non-surgical treatment methods should be applied at the earliest possible stage. Otherwise, as the nerves begin to heal in patients who have suffered facial paralysis, incorrect connections form, and this situation lays the foundation for synkinesis. Therefore, starting the rehabilitation process early after paralysis is critical in terms of both minimizing involuntary muscle movements and restoring muscle coordination correctly. At the same time, botulinum toxin (Botox) applications started at an early stage can control overactive muscles, preventing the onset of involuntary movements or reducing their severity. Furthermore, facial exercises, mirror therapy, and biofeedback methods teach muscles to function correctly and prevent nerves from healing with incorrect patterns. Ultimately, starting treatment early increases the effectiveness of non-surgical methods and may reduce the need for surgical intervention in later stages.

Precautions to Take Before Non-Surgical Treatment for Synkinesis

There are certain points to consider before undergoing non-surgical treatment for synkinesis. By paying attention to these points, you can achieve an effective treatment process. To elaborate on these points:

• Before starting treatment, you must be examined by a specialist experienced in facial paralysis and nerve rehabilitation.
• Since synkinesis usually develops after facial paralysis, the onset time, severity, and recovery process of the paralysis should be reviewed.
• The muscles in which the involuntary movements are concentrated should be identified, and Botox or an exercise plan should be prepared accordingly.
• The goal of treatment is to control the muscles and restore natural facial expressions; expecting a complete return to the pre-paralysis state may not be realistic.
• Medications used and current health conditions may affect the safety of methods such as Botox application or electrical stimulation.
• Controlled exercises to be performed by the patient during the treatment process should be determined, and incorrect applications should be prevented.
• Finally, regular doctor check-ups should be planned to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust the dosage if necessary.

Things to Consider After Non-Surgical Treatment for Synkinesis

There are factors to consider after non-surgical treatment for synkinesis. Paying attention to these factors will ensure you get the most out of the treatment. The things you need to consider in this regard are as follows:

• Follow-up appointments for evaluating post-treatment effects and adjusting the dose if necessary should not be missed.
• Facial exercises recommended by the specialist should be performed regularly and correctly; incorrect application may reduce the treatment effect.
• Overstraining the facial muscles or making unconscious facial expressions after treatment may increase involuntary muscle movements. Therefore, you should definitely avoid this.
• Temporary muscle weakness, slight bruising, or swelling may occur after Botox application; if a serious condition is noticed, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
• A decrease in involuntary movements and control of the facial muscles should be observed. This is important in determining the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
• The recovery process can vary from a few weeks to a few months; regular application and follow-up increase the success of the treatment.
• If new muscle spasms, twitching, or asymmetry are noticed in the face, a doctor should be consulted immediately without delay.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Treatment for Synkinesis Syndrome

Non-surgical treatment offers numerous benefits for synkinesis syndrome. To elaborate on these benefits in detail:

• Reduction in involuntary movements: Botulinum toxin and rehabilitation methods significantly reduce involuntary contractions in the facial muscles.
• Regaining control of facial muscles: Physical therapy and special exercises improve muscle coordination, making facial expressions more natural.
• No need for surgery: In mild to moderate cases, non-surgical treatment often eliminates the need for surgical intervention.
• Fast and safe application: Botox and physical therapy methods are generally safe and carry minimal risk of side effects.
• Functional improvement: Daily facial functions such as eating, speaking, and smiling become easier and more controlled.
• Aesthetic improvement: Facial asymmetry and involuntary muscle movements decrease, improving the patient's appearance and self-confidence.
• Personalized treatment plan: Applications can be tailored to the individual based on muscle groups and symptom severity, ensuring maximum benefit.
  Flexibility in the treatment process: Sessions and exercises can be planned to suit the patient's lifestyle, making the process easier to manage.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Synkinesis Syndrome

There are non-surgical treatment options for synkinesis syndrome that vary depending on the stage of the disorder. These options are as follows:

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Applications

Botulinum toxin is one of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of synkinesis. This method temporarily reduces excessive activity in the facial muscles, controlling involuntary muscle contractions. For this reason, the application is performed directly on the targeted muscle groups, and its effect generally lasts for 3–6 months. Thus, patients gain a more natural appearance in their facial expressions and can perform daily activities (smiling, talking, eating) more comfortably. In addition, the therapeutic effect of botulinum toxin can be sustained with regular applications, and symptoms are greatly reduced.

• Facial Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Physical therapy and facial rehabilitation, another method used in synkinesis treatment, play a critical role in managing synkinesis. This method helps muscles learn correct movements, and patients learn to recognize and control involuntary muscle contractions. Thus, specific exercises improve muscle coordination and prevent nerves from healing with incorrect patterns. As a result, regular sessions under expert guidance are essential for long-term recovery.

• Biofeedback Methods

Biofeedback is an effective technique used in synkinesis treatment to strengthen muscle control. In this method, the activity of the facial muscles is monitored with special devices, and real-time feedback is provided to the patient. This allows the patient to recognize involuntary muscle movements and learn to use their muscles correctly. When combined with exercises performed at home, the process strengthens muscle coordination and achieves high success in correcting incorrect muscle movements.

• Neuromodulation Techniques

Neuromodulation supports proper muscle function using methods such as electrical stimulation. In the treatment of synkinesis, controlled electrical impulses are applied to specific muscle groups to regulate muscle contractions and reduce involuntary movements. This method may not be suitable for every patient and must be administered under expert supervision. Furthermore, neurostimulation can increase its effectiveness when combined with other non-surgical treatment methods.

• Controlled Exercise Programs at Home

Controlled exercises performed at home are an important complementary element of synkinesis treatment. Exercises determined by a specialist teach the correct functioning of the facial muscles and reduce involuntary movements. Regular and correctly performed exercises, when used in conjunction with Botox and physical therapy applications, significantly increase the success of treatment. In this context, the continuity of exercise programs and the patient's disciplined approach ensure long-term improvement in facial functions.

Recovery Process in Non-Surgical Treatment of Synkinesis

The recovery process in non-surgical treatment of synkinesis varies depending on the patient's condition and the treatment method applied. However, in general, it begins with gradual improvement in muscle control in the first few weeks. Subsequently, the first noticeable relief is usually observed within 2-4 weeks, and complete, permanent recovery is achieved through regular sessions and home exercises lasting several months. In this context, the effectiveness of the process depends on starting treatment early, regular follow-up, and continuity of applications. Additionally, while these methods can provide significant improvement in daily living activities in mild to moderate cases, additional treatment or surgical intervention may be required in severe cases.

If you want to achieve reliable results with non-surgical treatment methods for synkinesis, you can contact Dr. Berke Özücer and his team, who specialize in synkinesis treatment.