Restore facial function and confidence with expert care for facial paralysis at New York Facial Paralysis. Led by Dr. Teresa O, we specialize in treating conditions like acoustic neuroma, congenital facial palsy, facial nerve tumors, and skin lesions. Let us help you regain facial control and improve your quality of life.
Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)
Acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a non-cancerous tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which controls balance and hearing. When this tumor grows, it can press against the facial nerve, leading to hearing loss, dizziness, and a gradual onset of facial paralysis or weakness.
Congenital Facial Palsy
Congenital facial palsy refers to facial paralysis present at birth, often caused by abnormal facial nerve or muscle development. It may be caused by genetics or birth trauma that affects the facial nerve. In some cases, the condition may improve with time or physical therapy, while in more severe cases, surgical intervention is needed to restore facial movement.
Bilateral Facial Paralysis
Bilateral facial paralysis occurs when both sides of the face are affected by paralysis or weakness, often due to diseases like Guillain-Barré syndrome, Lyme disease, or congenital conditions. It significantly impacts facial expressions, speech, and other essential functions like eating and closing the eyes.
Facial Nerve Schwannomas
Facial nerve schwannomas are benign tumors that develop on the facial nerve itself. These tumors can cause a gradual onset of facial paralysis, often starting with weakness or numbness on one side of the face. As the tumor grows, it can exert pressure on the nerve, impairing facial muscle control and necessitating surgical removal to preserve facial function.
Facial nerve tumors
Facial nerve tumors can occur when abnormal growths develop on the facial nerve. These may be benign or malignant, and their presence can lead to facial weakness or paralysis, as well as other symptoms such as pain or numbness. The treatment of facial nerve tumors generally involves surgical removal to preserve the function of the facial nerve.
Metastatic tumor leading to facial paralysis
A metastatic tumor is a cancerous growth that has spread from another part of the body to the facial nerve. When a tumor spreads to the facial nerve, it can cause paralysis or weakness on the affected side of the face. Treatment for metastatic tumors typically includes surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the size, location, and type of cancer.
Parotid tumors
Parotid tumors are growths that develop in the parotid glands, which are located near the jaw and produce saliva. The most common treatment option is surgical removal of the tumor. However, if the facial nerve is damaged during surgery, additional procedures, such as facial nerve repair or reanimation, may be necessary to restore facial function.
Cerebellopontine angle tumors (CPA tumors)
Cerebellopontine angle (CPA) tumors grow at the junction of the brainstem and the cerebellum, often affecting the facial nerve. These tumors can cause various symptoms, including facial paralysis, hearing loss, and dizziness. The treatment for CPA tumors typically involves surgery to remove the tumor, though radiation therapy may also be recommended.
Angioma
An angioma is a benign tumor made up of blood vessels that can form on the face. While generally harmless, angiomas can sometimes put pressure on the facial nerve, causing weakness or paralysis. Treatment for angiomas typically involves surgical removal and, in some cases, laser therapy to reduce them without affecting facial nerve function.
Blepharoptosis
Blepharoptosis, or ptosis, is the drooping of the upper eyelid. It can occur due to facial nerve paralysis or damage or other factors like aging or muscle weakness. When blepharoptosis is related to facial paralysis, surgery may be required to lift the eyelid and restore normal vision.
We offer surgical treatments to address blepharoptosis and help patients regain eyelid function.
Capillary & venular malformations
Capillary and venular malformations are types of vascular lesions that involve abnormal growths of blood vessels in the skin or underlying tissues. These types of malformations can cause facial swelling or changes in the appearance of the face, and they may sometimes lead to facial nerve compression or paralysis.
Vascular lesions
Vascular lesions are abnormal growths or malformations of blood vessels in the skin or the tissues beneath it. Various types of vascular lesions exist, including capillary malformations, arteriovenous malformations, and venous malformations. These can lead to cosmetic changes, swelling, and, in some instances, compression of the facial nerve, resulting in facial paralysis.
Facial trauma
Facial trauma can occur due to accidents, sports injuries, or other incidents that damage the facial bones, muscles, or nerves. When the facial nerve is injured, it can lead to facial paralysis. Treatment for facial trauma may involve reconstructive surgery to repair the damage and restore facial nerve function and rehabilitation techniques to regain full facial movement.
Head and neck tumor or cancer
Head and neck tumors or cancers can affect the facial nerve, leading to facial paralysis. These tumors may arise in various structures, including the mouth, throat, or salivary glands. The treatment for head and neck cancer typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, followed by reconstructive and reanimation procedures as necessary.
Facial paralysis after stroke
Facial paralysis can occur as a result of a stroke, particularly if the stroke affects the area of the brain responsible for controlling facial muscles. This condition, known as hemiplegic facial palsy, can lead to weakness or paralysis on one side of the face.
Treatment for facial paralysis after a stroke may include physical therapy, Botox, and surgical interventions to improve function.
Eyebrow ptosis
Eyebrow ptosis refers to the drooping of the eyebrow, often caused by weakness or paralysis of the muscles responsible for eyebrow movement. It can also occur due to nerve damage or other causes, such as aging. Brow ptosis can impact facial expressions and overall appearance, and treatment may include brow lift surgery or other reconstructive procedures.
Lower eyelid retraction or ectropion
Lower eyelid retraction or ectropion is a condition in which the lower eyelid is pulled away from the eye, often caused by facial nerve damage. This can result in dryness, irritation, and an inability to fully close the eyelid. Treatment for ectropion typically involves surgical repair to reposition the eyelid and restore normal function.
Facial rhytids (sagging and wrinkles)
Facial rhytids refer to sagging or wrinkles that develop due to aging, sun exposure, or loss of facial muscle tone. While this condition is not directly related to facial paralysis, it can affect the overall appearance of the face and may be worsened by facial nerve damage. Treatments for facial rhytids include facelifts, facial fat grafting, and injectables to restore youthful contours.
Upper eyelid redundancy
Upper eyelid redundancy occurs when excess skin forms on the upper eyelid, leading to a heavy or drooping appearance. This condition can interfere with vision and is often associated with aging or facial nerve damage. Treatment typically involves blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and restore a more youthful and functional eyelid.
Skin lesions
Skin lesions can take many forms, including moles, cysts, or growths on the face that may be benign or malignant. While most skin lesions are harmless, they can sometimes affect the facial nerve or cause cosmetic concerns. Our team works to ensure that any skin lesions are treated appropriately and without compromising facial nerve function.
Telangiectasia
Telangiectasia refers to small, dilated blood vessels near the skin’s surface, often appearing as red or purple lines on the face. While generally not harmful, these vessels can be a cosmetic concern and may become more noticeable following facial nerve paralysis. We provide personalized treatments to improve skin appearance and enhance facial aesthetics.
Schedule your consultation
New York Facial Paralysis is dedicated to providing expert care for facial paralysis, led by Dr. Teresa O, a board-certified specialist in facial nerve disorders. With her extensive experience and advanced surgical techniques, Dr. O offers personalized treatments to restore facial function and improve quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with Bell’s Palsy, synkinesis, or another condition, our team is here to help. Schedule your consultation to start your journey toward recovery and regain confidence in your smile and expressions.
