Peripheral facial paralysis

Peripheral facial paralysis causes asymmetry of the face affecting the upper and lower territories. Its management requires the completion of an initial clinical assessment in order to specify the topography, the severity of the involvement, the etiological nature and the possible complications. The knowledge and the mastery of the anatomo-physio-pathological bases makes it possible to understand the different clinical pictures. The rehabilitation must be started as early as possible, to accompany the various stages of sensitivo-motor recovery. It must be performed by a multi-disciplinary team consisting of a physical and rehabilitation doctor, a neurologist, an otolaryngologist, a plastic surgeon, a physiotherapist, a speech therapist and a psychologist whose role is to to help the patient to accept the self-image, to recover confi dence and self-esteem and to encourage the resumption of socio-cultural-professional activities.