The importance of facial expression and the management of facial nerve injury

Seventh nerve injury and resultant facial paralysis can be a devastating complication of neurosurgical procedures involving the cerebellopontine angle. In addition to affecting the obvious functional aspects of the seventh cranial nerve like eye protection, such patients experience a profound dysfunction of facial expression. This may be underappreciated by multiple specialists caring for such patients. This review discusses the importance of facial expression in human identity, communication, and social interactions and the effects of facial paralysis on the individual and the perception of the individual. Current and novel therapies for nerve rehabilitation and facial reanimation techniques are presented. Investigational efforts into future strategies for improving outcomes are discussed.