Facial nerve palsy occurs when the facial nerve, responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression, becomes damaged or inflamed. This condition can result in weakness, paralysis, or loss of movement on one or both sides of the face, affecting the ability to smile, frown, close the eyes, or speak clearly.
Restoring Function and Balance
Facial nerve palsy, or facial paralysis, occurs when there is damage to the facial nerve, which innervates the muscles of the face. This can be caused by pressure on the facial nerve, injury, or other etiologies resulting in symptoms such as asymmetry of the face, weakened facial muscles, inability to express emotion (smiling, frowning).
Causes
There are numerous possible causes for facial paralysis, necessitating a range of testing and a full patient history and physical exam to delineate the specific cause for effective treatment. Possible causes of facial nerve palsy include:
- Infection – Bell’s palsy (herpes simplex virus), Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, Lyme disease.
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Autoimmune Disease – Sarcoidosis
- Congenital – Improperly developed or absent facial nerves, or developmental abnormalities. Facial palsy is present at birth rather than acquired after or during childbirth.
Facial Nerve Palsy Treatment
Treatment for facial palsy includes both medical and surgical options. Medical treatment is indicated for infectious causes and consists of administering corticosteroids (Prednisone) and antiviral agents (valacyclovir). Surgical treatment of facial palsy is necessary only when medical treatment does not result in full recovery. It is imperative that protection of the cornea be a priority when control of the eyelids is lost or impaired.
Lack of tears and exposure to light can lead to corneal damage. Isotonic saline solution, natural tears and eye patch or tape should be used to facilitate closing of the eye, particularly during sleep. In some cases, a platinum eyelid weight may be placed to augment the eye closure. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment for you or a family member with one of our specialists.
Schedule your consultation
New York Facial Paralysis, located in Midtown East, Manhattan, is dedicated to the treatment of facial nerve palsy and restoring facial function and symmetry. Under the leadership of Dr. Teresa O, a board-certified specialist in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, our clinic provides advanced, customized treatments to address facial paralysis, muscle weakness, and eye closure challenges. With a focus on both functional recovery and natural aesthetic outcomes, Dr. O delivers compassionate, expert care to help you regain movement, balance, and confidence. Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your journey to recovery and restore harmony to your face.
