Residual Epiphora After Successful Periocular Surgery for Facial Paralysis: Pathophysiology and Management

Abstract

The prevalence of residual epiphora following successful periocular surgery for facial nerve paralysis can be as high as 30% or more. The pathophysiology of residual epiphora is complex, but identification of the etiology is paramount because the therapeutic approach varies accordingly. Treatments range from medical management of systemic disease to botulinum toxin injections for conditions that arise from aberrant reinnervation to surgical procedures that bypass the lacrimal drainage system completely. We describe a case report and review the pathophysiology and management of residual epiphora to provide a treatment algorithm for clinical use by facial plastic and oculoplastic surgeons. Laryngoscope , 2020