The face is host to a network of nerves. Those nerves can suffer damage in a variety of ways, from birth defects, disease, or injury. The nerve damage in turn affects the muscles, potentially causing facial paralysis. That can lead to difficulties such as the inability to close one’s eyes, crooked smiles, and other distorted features, as well as pain, hearing loss, and difficulty eating. Unfortunately, a facial paralysis causes many people to experience low self-esteem and limit their interactions with others. If an accident, stroke or other medical condition has left you with unwanted side effects of facial paralysis, facial paralysis surgery may be the answer.
Reconstructive surgery of the face can restore both the function and appearance of the areas affected by nerve damage – including the eye, lip, brow and cheek. The overall goal of facial paralysis surgery is to return the face to its natural, normal state again.
The side effects of facial paralysis can take an emotional toll. If you are unable to express a smile, laugh, or simply enjoy being in a peaceful resting state due to the effects of facial nerve damage, relief may be found with reconstructive facial surgery.
It’s important to choose a board-certified reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon when electing facial paralysis surgery. Dr. Robert M. Schwarcz uses advanced surgical techniques and procedures that are tailored to the individual needs of each patient. He is committed to achieving excellent cosmetic and functional results, so that you feel and look your very best.
Sometimes treating the underlying cause of the paralysis will restore movement. But when drugs and/or physical therapy don’t provide relief, individuals often seek reconstructive surgery to restore their ability to move their face in normal ways. Successful surgery is dependent on many factors, including:
the patient’s age
overall health
reason the paralysis occurred
and the individual’s expectations
Another factor in determining surgical procedures is the length of time the face has been paralyzed. For example, if the problem is three weeks or less in duration, the surgeon may choose a different way of reconstructive or repair techniques than would be used for paralysis that has a longer duration.
Facial paralysis surgery is complex and the exact procedures are based on the cause and extent of the paralysis. It may involve “decompressing” the nerves, or it may include grafting or cutting certain nerves. All facial surgery is extremely complicated, with little-to-no margin for error, and must be done by a Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon.
As with any surgery, there can be temporary complications such as swelling or infection. There may also be permanent scarring. Depending on the cause of the paralysis, reconstructive surgery may result in full recovery and attractive appearance. Prompt treatment increases the chances for success in most cases. Individuals considering facial paralysis surgery must fully discuss the procedures, risks, and prognosis with their surgeon, as each case is different.
