A few days ago, I was reminded by my webmaster about the blogs I had planned to write. This wasn’t the first time he’d brought it up, as life and work had kept me occupied between seeing patients, conducting research, mentoring, and everything else. My goal with these blogs is to share insights from my clinical experience and offer helpful information for both patients and others who might benefit from it. I aim to make this a more regular effort going forward.

Are All Cases of Synkinesis the Same?

Several months ago, a patient with synkinesis asked me if I had ever encountered someone with exactly her condition. My response was both yes and no. The reality is, every patient is unique—no two are completely identical. However, certain patterns of symptoms tend to emerge among individuals. Medical conditions often display commonalities with some degree of individual variability.

This particular patient had a mild form of synkinesis. I explained to her that while her facial asymmetry was noticeable, it fell within the range of what can be considered typical for humans. Ultimately, the decision about treatment was hers. She thought for a moment and said, "I understand what you're saying, but I don’t feel like myself. Could you explain the treatment options more thoroughly so I can make an informed decision?"

The Importance of Decision-Making

That exchange was a small part of a larger conversation, but it touched on something significant. We all recognize that “normal” varies from person to person. Yet, when something changes, especially when it affects how we look or function, the instinct is often to restore what was lost. The decision-making process can take time and varies from one individual to another. In some cases, there’s room for careful deliberation, while in others, time may feel limited.

When time is on your side, the most crucial thing is to make a choice that you feel comfortable with. This involves building trust with your surgeon and asking plenty of questions. Don’t hesitate to ask the same question multiple times until you fully understand the information being presented. While no surgeon is perfect, a dedicated one will strive to deliver the best possible results.

Synkinesis Treatment Options

Synkinesis can present in a wide variety of ways, ranging from subtle muscle spasms and mild uncoordinated facial movements to more severe cases, where facial muscles are constantly contracting, leading to restricted movement. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the condition. For some patients, a minor surgical procedure may suffice, while others may require a more comprehensive surgical plan. In some cases, treatment may need to be gradual, involving multiple procedures to achieve the best possible outcome.

Common treatment options for synkinesis include:

• Selective neurectomies and neurolysis
• Selective myectomies
• BOTOX®

In most instances, an optimal treatment strategy involves a combination of physical therapy, BOTOX, and surgery. It’s essential to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about your specific condition. This dialogue helps set the right expectations and better prepares you for the journey ahead. Each patient’s journey is unique, but I strongly believe that collaboration between patient and surgeon eases the process, enhances results, and provides an opportunity for mutual learning.

In the case of the patient I mentioned earlier, she chose to move forward with treatment. She has since experienced improved function and is beginning to regain her confidence.

If you’ve been diagnosed with synkinesis, discussing your options with a qualified medical professional can help you make an informed decision about your treatment path.