title: Use of triple-convergence polypropylene thread for the aesthetic correction of partial facial paralysis caused by the facial nerve injury.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the use of self-sustaining triple-convergence polypropylene thread for correction of hemiface deviation presenting as late result of facial paralysis.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted a retrospective, observational study with 34 subjects with late facial paralysis. We used a triple-convergence polypropylene thread to correct the deviation of the paralyzed hemiface. It is a monofilament, synthetic, transparent and unabsorbable thread that has hooks that exert traction in the ptotic tissues, keeping them in the correct position, in symmetry with the healthy side. The results were evaluated by subjective analysis, with assessment of patient satisfaction with a proper questionnaire.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We analyzed 34 patients, 73.52% of them reported great improvement, 20.58% moderate improvement and 5.88%, slight improvement; we found a high satisfaction rate of 94.1%. Two patients had partial extrusion of the wire. No patient developed infection.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of triple-convergence polypropylene thread to correct the deviation of hemiface consequent to facial palsy markedly improved facial asymmetry and recovery of patients' self-esteem.
authors.affiliation: Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. marceloperrone@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Marcelo
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Perrone
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D020220:Facial Nerve Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011126:Polypropylenes; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D011126:Polypropylenes