Cutting Edge Treatment for Flaccid Paralysis

Flaccid paralysis is a condition that occurs when the facial muscles weaken due to injury or damage to the facial nerve or muscles. Those affected by this condition lose all movement in the face, making flaccid paralysis a very difficult situation to live with. Common symptoms of flaccid paralysis are:

• reduced muscle tone (from the inability to move and strengthen the facial muscles)
• inability to contract the muscles
• inability to close the eye or lift the corner of the mouth
• inability to generate eyebrow elevation
• inability to smile
• speech impairment
• difficulty eating or drinking

Flaccid paralysis can be caused by a number of circumstances, including congenital facial nerve disorders, trauma, Bell’s palsy, stroke, autoimmune disease, and surgical causes. Depending on the cause of a specific onset of flaccid paralysis, some patients are able to make a full recovery.

Dr. Teresa O at New York Facial Paralysis is a world-renowned doctor who has spent the better part of her career treating patients with highly specialized conditions. As a facial plastic surgeon who has been trained in facial nerve paralysis and reanimation, Dr. O offers cutting edge treatments to patients with facial nerve paralysis. Dr. O will evaluate the entire face, and the diagnosis of flaccid paralysis will be based on the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition. Once an accurate diagnosis is achieved, Dr. O and the entire New York Facial Paralysis staff will treat the patient as an individual case. There is no “one-sized approach” when it comes to treating those who suffer from flaccid paralysis.

Treatment for flaccid paralysis can be medical, surgical, or a combination of both. Physical therapy is also essential in any case of flaccid paralysis to help patients regain movement and function of their facial attributes. Depending on the patient’s history, Dr. Teresa O may prescribe other medical treatments.