Photobiomodulation Therapy to Treat Facial Paralysis of 8 Years: Case Report

Background:Paralysis of the facial muscles produces functional and aesthetic disturbance that has a negative impact for the patient's quality of life. Objective:To evaluate the effects of a photobiomodulation (PBM) with low-level laser (LLL) on the treatment of a patient with 8 years of facial paralysis. Methods:PBM with two different wavelengths of LLL (660 and 808 nm), applied only on the affected side, three times a week for 8 consecutive weeks. Evaluations were performed before starting treatments, after the 12th session of treatment and after the 24th session, using the House-Brackmann scale and electroneuromyography. Results:The House-Brackmann and electroneuromyography tests showed improvements in the movement of the facial muscles when tested in the middle and at the end of the treatment with LLL. Conclusions:PBM with LLL at the wavelength of 660 and 808 nm with the parameters used in this case report was an effective and noninvasive treatment for facial paralysis in this long-standing, chronic case of 8 years.