Synkinesis Treatment 

What is synkinesis?

Dr. Berke Özücer aims to give his patients a natural and balanced facial appearance through the groundbreaking results he has achieved in the treatment of synkinesis. Using innovative and modern techniques, he aims to correct nerve misalignments that cause involuntary muscle contractions in the face with minimal tissue damage, while also emphasizing the natural expression and aesthetic harmony of the face. As a result, patients achieve a more relaxed, symmetrical, and dynamic facial appearance.

Consistently delivering successful and impressive results that ensure high patient satisfaction, Dr. Berke Özücer is one of the most sought-after names in synkinesis treatment. Adopting a personalized approach for each patient and aiming to preserve natural expression and achieve balanced results without exaggeration, Dr. Berke Özücer has a positive impact not only on appearance but also on his patients' psychological well-being and self-confidence.

What is the cause of synkinesis?

Synkinesis can have many causes. These reasons vary depending on the traumas the person has experienced. But in general, as a result of the injuries and traumas that the person has experienced, the facial nerves grow back. As a result of this growth, new branches of the bone are formed and these branches are connected to the muscles incorrectly, causing the patient to experience synkinesis. 

If we examine the causes of synkinesis below;

• Bell's Palsy

Bell's palsy is characterized by paralysis or weakness of the facial muscles as a result of inflammation or compression of the facial nerve. In this case, as the nerve heals, some nerve fibers may form incorrect connections, causing synkinesis and Bell's palsy. For this reason, synkinesis can usually be treated with certain treatment methods. For detailed information on this subject, you can check our Bell's Palsy treatment page.

• Trauma

Synkinesis, which occurs as a result of trauma, generally occurs when the nerves in the patient's facial area are affected by severe trauma. The main reason for this situation is that the trauma experienced by the person is not treated or the treatment is delayed. For this reason, untreated head traumas can generally turn into synkinesis.

• Stroke

Stroke-induced synkinesis occurs when the facial muscles are affected. The main cause of this is a blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain or brain stem, which cuts off the blood supply to the brain. In such cases, the nerve fibers leading to certain areas of the brain or brain stem may be damaged and the control of facial muscles may be impaired.

• Infections

Infections that greatly affect the nervous system can also cause synkinesis in some cases. Viral infections, especially those affecting the facial nerve, cause inflammation and damage to the nerves. This can lead to incorrect connections and involuntary muscle movements during the healing process of the nerves.  For example, synkinesis can be caused by the herpes simplex virus, infections affecting the trigeminal nerve or the facial nerve.

• Tumors

Some patients may develop tumors in the brain lobes. These tumors can cause dyskinesia by putting pressure on the nervous system or affecting nerve fibers. Especially in cases where the facial nerve or other motor nerves are affected, nerve damage caused by tumors can lead to involuntary muscle movements. Tumors therefore need to be treated.

• Congenital

Congenital synkinesis refers to involuntary muscle movements that are present from birth and are usually caused by a defect in the nervous system or muscle development. The condition is usually associated with a type of nerve disorder affecting the facial nerves or abnormalities in the nerve pathways that control muscle function.

What are the Symptoms of Synkinesis?

Synkinesis has many symptoms that vary from person to person. These symptoms do not appear in every patient, but they are present in living patients. If we examine the symptoms of synkinesis, the symptoms are as follows;

• Facial Asymmetry:

Asymmetry, which is the result of the muscles in the face working unevenly, is present in many patients with synkinesis. For example, one half of the face moves or is expressed differently from the other half.

• Eyelid drooping:

Another symptom seen in synkinesis is the lowering or closing of one eyelid than normal. Eyelid drooping, especially during certain movements such as opening the mouth, is the biggest symptom of synkinesis.

• Dry Eye:

Dry eye may occur as a result of droopy eyelids or involuntary movement of facial muscles that occur in synkinesis. This is a common condition in synkinesis.

• Mouth Asymmetry:

Uneven movement of the lips or corners of the mouth during mouth movements, or when one half of the face looks different from the other, is one of the most important signs of synkinesis. Therefore, if you experience such a situation, contact your doctor immediately.

• Difficulty Swallowing:

In synkinesis, facial muscles are directly affected. As a result of this effect, difficulty in swallowing may occur. Therefore, there is no need to worry. This condition passes during treatment. 

• Speech Difficulty:

Synkinesis occurring in the facial muscles can greatly affect speech routines. In this case, it causes the voice to sound different from normal or difficulty in speaking.

Synkinesis Diagnosis

When diagnosing synkinesis, doctors first perform a physical examination. During the physical examination, doctors ask patients when you first noticed it, how fast the paralysis developed and whether there is muscle control in the affected area of the face in order to make a better diagnosis. Afterwards, they also analyze whether there is ringing in the ear area. Then he or she refers the nerves in the facial area to MRI for detailed examination. Thanks to the MRI application, it provides a clearer observation of the conditions occurring in the muscles and nerves. After the MRI, the patient undergoes electroneurography to evaluate the function of peripheral nerves, including the  synkinesis. In the electroneurography procedure, the doctor places electrodes on both sides of the face. These electrodes measure the reaction times of the  synkinesis and analyze whether there is a problem.  

Finally, an electromyogram test is performed to check the electrical impulses transmitted along the nerves and muscle tissue. This test provides clear answers by analyzing possible weaknesses in the facial muscles in detail. During the electromyogram test, doctors insert small, thin needle electrodes through the skin into the facial muscles corresponding to specific nerves. After these electrodes are placed on the nerves, they ask the muscles to move. In this way, the condition of the muscles is examined. In addition, a blood test is performed to analyze the viruses and infections to which the patient has been exposed, and a treatment process is initiated accordingly.

What are the Types of Synkinesis Treatment?

There are different types of treatment for synkinesis. These treatment methods are directly proportional to how much the patient is exposed to synkinesis and why the patient has this disease. For this reason, not every treatment method may respond in every patient. Therefore, the type of treatment is determined after detailed analyzes. Synkinesis treatment types are as follows;

Selective Neurectomy (Selective Neurolysis) 

Selective neurectomy, which is a frequently preferred treatment method in the treatment of synkinesis, is a treatment method that involves cutting or neutralizing the nerves that cause synkinesis. During this treatment, the normal functions of the nerve are reduced by cutting or removing a certain part of the nerve. Or a special substance is injected around the nerve to restore it to its normal state. For more information, please visit our selective neurectomy page.

Selective Myectomies

Another treatment method often used in synkinesis is selective myectomies. In this treatment, the diseased muscle tissues are partially or completely cut away. By treating the symptoms that cause excessive muscle spasms and involuntary contractions, diseases such as spastic cerebral palsy can be controlled and the patient can lead a more comfortable life. The involuntary muscle contractions that the person has previously experienced end. 

Physical Therapy (Neuromuscular Retraining Therapy)

Botulinum Toxin

Botox, which is one of the treatment methods used in synkinesis, is a treatment type that is frequently preferred today. This treatment is generally preferred to eliminate facial muscle contractions and deformities. In this treatment method, botulinum toxin type A is injected into the facial muscles. Thus, the patient is provided with a comfortable, albeit temporary, process. 

Things to Consider Before Synkinesis Surgery

There are many points to be considered before synkinesis surgery. These points ensure that the operation process goes better. The points to be considered before synkinesis surgery are as follows;

• Communication with the Doctor: Before the surgery, a preliminary consultation with the doctor should take place. This will provide detailed information about how the operation will be performed, expectations, possible risks and the postoperative recovery process.
  
  
• Medications and Supplements: Before the surgery, all medications and supplements should be reported to the doctor. Because some medications and supplements can increase the risk of bleeding after surgery. For this reason, you should stop taking medications and supplements in order not to risk the surgery.
  
  
• Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may adversely affect the postoperative healing process. For this reason, smoking and alcohol consumption should be limited before surgery. 
  
  
• Nutrition: A healthy eating habit should be considered before surgery. For this reason, taking enough vitamins and minerals can support the postoperative healing process.
  
  
• Following Preoperative Instructions: Preoperative instructions given by the doctor should be followed carefully. Thus, if you need to be hungry or thirsty before surgery, these instructions should be followed.
  
  

Things to Consider After Synkinesis Surgery

Just as there are points to be considered before synkinesis surgery, there are also factors to be considered afterwards. These factors make the postoperative process easier and better. Here are the things you should pay attention to after synkinesis operation;

• Pay Attention to the Doctor's Instructions: During the post-operative recovery process, the doctor's instructions should be followed carefully. This is because these instructions may include wound care, medication, physical activities and other important issues.
  
  
• Rest and Recovery Process: Time should be allocated for rest and recovery after surgery. Therefore, it will be beneficial to rest when necessary to allow the body to heal.
  
  
• Wound Care: Wound care methods recommended by the doctor should be applied to support the healing of the wound in the surgical area. This ensures that the wound is clean and protected from infection.
  
  
• Use of Medicines: The medications recommended by the doctor should be used regularly. Thus, possible pain is controlled and inflammation is reduced. In this way, the healing process gains more speed.
  
  
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: After the procedure, participation in the physical therapy and rehabilitation program recommended by the doctor should be ensured. These programs support recovery by increasing the strengthening, flexibility and coordination of facial muscles.
  
  
• Eating and Drinking Habits: If there is difficulty swallowing or other facial muscle problems after surgery, care should be taken to consume soft and easy-to-swallow foods. Also, adequate fluid intake should not be neglected.

Synkinesis Surgery Before and After Photos

You can view our gallery to see the successful synkinesis treatment results that Doctor Be has done.

Facial Synkinesis Cost Turkey

Turkey is one of the countries known for offering the most affordable synkinesis surgery costs. So, how much does synkinesis surgery cost in Turkey? The average cost of facial paralysis surgery in Turkey is approximately $4,200 to $5,300. Factors affecting facial paralysis surgery prices include the scope of the surgery, the quality of the materials used, the doctor's expertise, and the country where the procedure is performed.

To obtain detailed information about facial paralysis surgery prices, the degree of facial paralysis must first be examined. Based on the results of these examinations, the details of the operation are determined according to the person's expectations and needs, and a price quote is provided.

How to Choose the Best Facial Synkinesis Surgeons in Turkey?

There are many points to consider when choosing the best facial synkinesis surgeon. For this, you need to do detailed research. Because in order to achieve positive results in facial synkinesis procedures, it is important to work with surgeons who are experts in their field. Therefore, you should make sure that your doctor is an expert in the field of facial synkinesis. You should also make sure that your doctor has performed facial synkinesis procedures on all face types. Finally, it is also very important that they have experience with different techniques in facial synkinesis surgeries.

At this point, Dr. Berke Özücer, one of Turkey's best facial synkinesis surgeons, stands out with his successful operations and as a surgeon who applies different techniques. Therefore, by contacting Dr. Berke Özücer, one of Turkey's best facial synkinesis surgeons, you can achieve your dream face shape in a healthy way.

Who is the Best Synkinesis Surgeon in Turkey?

There are many renowned synkinesis surgeons in Turkey. These surgeons have performed numerous successful synkinesis operations in their field. Dr. Berke Özücer, one of the renowned synkinesis surgeons who stands out with his successful work, provides excellent results by giving his patients a natural appearance. Thus, he effortlessly helps his patients achieve the healthy facial appearance they desire.

Berke Özücer, who performs synkinesis operations by taking into account the wishes and face types of his patients, achieves flawless and excellent results in synkinesis procedures. If you also want to achieve these results, you can get excellent results by having a preliminary consultation with Berke Özücer, one of Turkey's most renowned synkinesis surgeons.

Doctor Be Difference in Synkinesis Treatment

Doctor Be, one of the best facial paralysis treatment surgeons in Turkey, has extensive experience in Synkinesis treatment and at the same time offers the best and most perfect results to his patients by using the latest technology and methods. Thus, by prioritizing patient satisfaction, he has become one of the best facial paralysis treatment clinics in Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Synkinesis Treatment

Is Facial Paralysis the Same as Synkinesis?

No, facial paralysis and synkinesis are not the same thing. Facial paralysis is the loss of movement in part or all of the face due to damage to the nerves that control the facial muscles. Synkinesis, on the other hand, is the involuntary muscle movements that occur during the recovery process of facial paralysis due to the nerves fusing incorrectly. In other words, it is a complication that develops after facial paralysis.

Are Bell's Palsy and Synkinesis the Same?

No, Bell's palsy and synkinesis are different. Bell's palsy is a sudden onset, usually unilateral facial muscle paralysis. Synkinesis, on the other hand, occurs in people who have had Bell's palsy or facial paralysis due to other causes, when nerves form incorrect connections during the healing process. In other words, synkinesis can develop after Bell's palsy, but these two conditions are not the same.

Does Synkinesis Affect the Entire Face?

No, synkinesis does not usually affect the entire face. It is more commonly seen in the area where facial paralysis occurred and in nearby muscle groups. For example, symptoms such as involuntary squinting of the eye when smiling or movement of the corner of the mouth when blinking may occur. The affected area and severity may vary from person to person.

What Happens If Synkinesis Is Not Treated?

If synkinesis is not treated, involuntary muscle movements may become more pronounced over time, negatively affecting both aesthetic appearance and facial muscle function. It can also cause discomfort socially and psychologically. With the right treatment methods applied early on, muscle movements can be balanced and involuntary contractions can be controlled.