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What is Temporalis Tendon Transfer?

Temporalis muscle transfer is a procedure designed to restore movement, typically to the corner of the mouth. This technique occasionally improves eye closure, though this application is less common. The temporalis muscle, located in the temple and responsible for biting and chewing, is either slid forward from the jawbone to the corner of the mouth or flipped over the cheekbone using the cheekbone as a fulcrum and secured to the corner of the mouth. This allows patients to achieve a smile when they bite down as the corner of the mouth shifts upward. While it does not provide the same range of movement as free muscle transfer, it is a simpler operation that avoids the need for microscopic hookups of arteries, veins, and nerves.

We recognize the profound emotional and physical toll that facial paralysis can have on your life. Restoring muscle function is not just about reclaiming your sense of self, regaining the ability to express your emotions, and feeling confident in your interactions with others. At Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery in Boston, we are dedicated to walking alongside you on this journey, providing compassionate care and expert guidance to help you achieve your aesthetic goals and restore your overall quality of life.

A Wealth of Healing Benefits

Temporalis tendon transfer can significantly improve your overall well-being and appearance. Some of the notable benefits include:

  • Progressive improvement in facial muscle function and symmetry
  • Better facial expressions and more natural emotional communication
  • Increased quality of life and boosted confidence in social settings
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Am I a Good Candidate for Temporalis Tendon Transfer?

Temporalis tendon transfer can be a life-changing treatment for facial nerve damage patients. You may be an excellent candidate for this procedure if you have suffered nerve damage due to trauma, surgery, or other reasons. This procedure is ideal for those who wish to restore facial muscle function and achieve better symmetry. If you are looking for a personalized approach that caters to your unique needs and goals, temporalis tendon transfer could be the right solution for you.

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How Does the Procedure Work?

During the temporalis muscle transfer procedure, Dr. Tessa Hadlock uses the muscle in your temple, which helps with biting and chewing, to restore facial movement. This muscle can either be moved forward from the jawbone to the corner of the mouth or flipped over the cheekbone and attached to the corner of the mouth. Using the cheekbone as a pivot point allows you to mimic a smile when you bite down.

Although this procedure doesn't create as much movement as a free muscle transfer, it is simpler and doesn't require connecting tiny arteries, veins, and nerves under a microscope. This makes the surgery quicker and less complicated. However, there can be some downsides, such as a hollow look in the temple area or a noticeable bump over the cheekbone, and it may not provide the same aesthetic results as more complex surgeries.

For patients who aren't candidates for longer, more intricate surgeries, temporalis muscle transfer can be an effective option for restoring your smile.

Recovery and Results

After temporalis tendon transfer, you can expect a smooth recovery with minimal downtime. Most patients quickly return to their daily routines by following post-operative instructions.
Initial swelling or discomfort typically subsides quickly, and our supportive team is here to ensure your recovery goes smoothly. In a few months, you will notice a gradual return of facial muscle function and better symmetry, enhancing your ability to express emotions and boosting your confidence.

Rest assured, we provide personalized care and regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed. Choosing temporalis tendon transfer is a big step toward restoring facial function and well-being. We're here to help you achieve renewed confidence and joy.

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At Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery, we prioritize patient collaboration and take the time to thoroughly discuss the procedure with each patient, considering their unique needs and goals. Together, we determine whether temporalis tendon transfer is the right choice for you.

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Why Choose Hadlock Center for Facial Plastic Surgery?

At Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tessa Hadlock stands at the forefront of facial reanimation, bringing years of experience and innovative research to the field of facial nerve function restoration. Our practice is dedicated to offering the most advanced and effective facial reanimation procedures. Dr. Hadlock's warm and approachable nature ensures a welcoming environment where you will feel at ease throughout your temporalis tendon transfer journey.

Our team's commitment to patient comfort and confidence, coupled with Dr. Hadlock's exceptional expertise, makes Hadlock Facial Plastic Surgery the top choice for those seeking to restore facial function and enhance their quality of life through temporalis tendon transfer. We invite you to schedule a consultation if you are ready to take the first step toward regaining facial muscle function and symmetry.

We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals and regain your ability to express emotions naturally. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and embark on the path to renewed confidence and well-being.

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Our job isn’t over until the patient is smiling

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