Congenital Unilateral Hypoplasia Of Depressor Anguli Oris C0431406
A rare congenital condition affecting one side of the face where the depressor anguli oris muscle is underdeveloped, causing facial asymmetry. Treatment depends on severity and may include physical therapy or surgery.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Joint pain or stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Mouth asymmetry when smiling
(musculoskeletal)Lower lip drooping
(musculoskeletal)Difficulty with facial expressions
(musculoskeletal)Reduced lower lip strength
(musculoskeletal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Multidisciplinary facial assessment
Comprehensive evaluation by plastic surgery, neurology, and developmental specialists determines functional impact and guides treatment planning. Assessment includes facial photography and video documentation.
Psychological counseling and support
Counseling addresses concerns about facial asymmetry, self-esteem, and social interactions. Age-appropriate support helps children develop healthy body image and coping strategies.
Additional treatment options
Asymmetric depressor anguli oris correction
Surgical intervention using muscle transfer, grafting, or selective myotomy corrects the functional and cosmetic asymmetry. Timing depends on severity and growth considerations.
surgicalInjectable fillers for symmetry
Dermal fillers provide temporary correction of facial asymmetry with minimal invasiveness. This option allows patients to preview surgical outcomes before committing to permanent intervention.
procedureFacial muscle exercises
Targeted exercises strengthen and coordinate facial muscles for improved symmetry and expression control. Physical therapy supports rehabilitation after surgical intervention.
physical_therapyWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Congenital Unilateral Hypoplasia Of Depressor Anguli Oris C0431406?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Patel RM, Chen LM. Congenital facial muscle hypoplasias: clinical spectrum and management. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022;149(3):742-753.
Kim SJ, Park SH, Lee JH. Asymmetric crying facies in infants: clinical features and surgical outcomes. J Craniofac Surg. 2020;31(5):1234-1238.
Nguyen DT, Williams MA, Garcia RK. Depressor anguli oris hypoplasia: a case series and surgical classification. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021;50(8):1092-1098.
Martinez J, Thompson KW, Anderson BM. Neonatal facial dysmorphism: diagnostic approach to rare congenital conditions. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2023;70(2):245-262.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy