Facial Paralysis

Facial paralysis occurs when the muscles on one or both sides of the face cannot move. This can happen for various reasons, such as a birth defect, stroke, viral infection, Bell’s palsy, tumor or traumatic accident. It can be devastating. However, the good news is that there are treatment options available for patients if paralysis does not resolve or improve on its own.  

What to expect

At your first visit, you will meet with a surgeon to discuss your past medical history, your paralysis prognosis and your goals. Your provider will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that improves your facial muscle coordination and symmetry. Treatment plans typically involve a combination of nonsurgical and surgical interventions.

Nonsurgical procedures:

• Injections such as Botox help make the face more symmetrical by relaxing the stronger muscle.
• Neuromuscular retraining.

Surgical procedures:

• Muscle, nerve or free tissue transfers.
• Selective neurectomy.
• Static sling.
• Face, neck or brow lift.
• Eyelid procedures.

Corrective surgery for facial paralysis can be very complex. Treatments will vary depending on your age, health status, location of paralysis, and how long the muscles have been paralyzed, among other factors.

If treatment is recommended, you’ll take some photos and videos to establish a baseline for comparison after treatment. You'll leave the consultation educated about what is involved in your customized plan to allow you to make informed decisions.

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine

Nebraska Medicine surgeons offer a comprehensive range of nonsurgical and surgical interventions for facial paralysis that set us apart in the state and region. Wes Heckman, MD, is double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

With specialized expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, our surgeons understand the complex anatomy of facial nerves and muscles.