Approximately two-thirds of people with Bell’s palsy will regain facial function within six months. However, some patients are left with persistent facial asymmetry due to involuntary facial movements, as well as facial pain and tightness.
“With Bell’s palsy, it is critical to get treated by a specialist as soon as possible,” says Alisa Yamasaki, MD, a fellowship trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon on the Medical Staff of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “Having incomplete recovery from Bell’s palsy can have a significant impact on patients, both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, we have several techniques to
help restore facial symmetry.”
Several Approaches are Possible
“Facial reanimation includes both surgical and non-surgical treatments to help restore more natural movement and symmetry to the face. Treatment ranges from Botox and targeted muscle procedures to more extensive nerve grafting and selective neurectomy surgeries in which we isolate and connect or isolate and remove individual facial nerve branches,” says Dr. Yamasaki. “There are many different options, so the optimal treatment approach for each patient is determined on a case-by-case basis.”
Recovery times depend on the type of procedure that is performed, how long the nerves and muscles have been paralyzed, and the individual’s overall health. Most in-office procedures have little or no downtime. For those requiring surgery, an overnight observation in the hospital may be involved.
“For most people, pain or discomfort from in-office procedures can be handled with over-the-counter pain relievers, if needed at all,” says Dr. Yamasaki. “A full recovery from surgery depends on the type of procedure. In either case, facial reanimation is a complex process that needs to be taken step-by-step. The most important thing is to have patience and good communication with your doctor. It really is a long-term collaborative journey that you embark on with your physician.”
| In addition to Bell’s palsy, facial reanimation procedures can be used to treat facial paralysis caused by other conditions, such as stroke, Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, and skull base surgery. |