Table 4. House-Brackmann Scale

Grade Description Characteristics
I Normal Normal facial function all areas
II Mild dysfunction Gross Slight weakness is noted on close inspecion may have a slight synkinesis
At rest normal symmetry and tone
Motion Forehead : Moderate to good function
Eye : Complete closure with minimal effect
Mouth : Slight asymmetry
III Moderate dysfunction Gross Obvious but not disfiguring difference between both sides, noticeable but not severe synkinesis, contracture, and/or hemifacial spasm
At rest normal symmetry and tone
Motion Forehead : Slight to moderate movement
Eye : Complete closure with effort
Mouth : Slight weak with maximum effort
IV Moderately severe dysfunction Gross Obvious weakness and/or disfiguring asymmetry
At rest normal symmetry and tone
Motion Forehead : None
Eye : Incomplete closure
Mouth : Asymmetry with maximum effort
V Severe dysfunction Gross Only barely perceptible
At rest asymmetry
Motion Forehead : None
Eye : Incomplete closure
Mouth : Slight movement
VI Total paralysis No movement