Facial Palsy Treatment & Facial Nerve Reanimation Chennai

Facial palsy has many causes—Bell's palsy (viral, most common), surgery (acoustic neuroma, parotid tumors), trauma, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, or tumors. Most Bell's palsy patients (70-80%) recover completely within 3-6 months. Recovery depends on the cause, completeness of paralysis, and timing of treatment. Early steroid treatment improves outcomes significantly.

Synkinesis occurs when the facial nerve regenerates incorrectly—nerve fibers meant for one muscle connect to others. This causes involuntary movements like eye closing when smiling, mouth pulling when closing eyes, or neck tightening with facial movement. It's actually a sign that your nerve recovered, just imperfectly. Botox and therapy can significantly improve synkinesis.

Botox (botulinum toxin) relaxes overactive facial muscles. For synkinesis, it reduces unwanted movements by weakening the misdirected muscle responses. For facial asymmetry, it can be injected on the normal side to balance the face. Effects last 3-4 months and require repeat treatments. It's a highly effective, non-surgical option that Dr. Vidhyadharan tailors to your specific pattern.

Facial reanimation surgery restores facial movement or symmetry. Dynamic procedures (nerve repair, nerve grafts, muscle transfers) aim to restore actual movement. Static procedures (slings, suspensions) improve symmetry at rest. The best approach depends on how long you've had paralysis, your age, and whether the facial nerve can be repaired or must be replaced.

Yes, incomplete eye closure is a serious concern. The eye can dry out, develop corneal ulcers, and potentially lose vision. Immediate measures include frequent lubricating drops, ointment at night, taping the eye closed for sleep, and moisture chambers. If these aren't enough, surgical options like gold weight implants allow the eye to close with gravity and blinking.

For Bell's palsy, most surgeons wait 12-18 months to see if natural recovery occurs. However, certain tests (ENoG showing >90% nerve degeneration within 2 weeks) may indicate early surgical exploration. For surgical or traumatic causes where the nerve is known to be cut, immediate repair is ideal. Every case is different—Dr. Vidhyadharan will advise based on your specific situation.

Yes! Facial rehabilitation with a specialized therapist is valuable for both recovering and non-recovering patients. It improves muscle coordination, prevents abnormal movement patterns, and can reduce synkinesis. Techniques include facial exercises, massage, neuromuscular retraining, and mirror biofeedback. Best results come from working with therapists experienced in facial palsy.

Facial paralysis affects far more than appearance—it impacts how you express emotions, communicate, eat, drink, and interact socially. Many patients experience depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. Dr. Vidhyadharan's team addresses these concerns with psychological support and counseling as part of comprehensive care. Improving facial function often dramatically improves quality of life.

Gold (or platinum) weight implants are small, thin weights surgically placed in the upper eyelid. They use gravity to help the eye close—when you relax or blink, the weight pulls the lid down. The procedure is done through a hidden incision in the eyelid crease. It's reversible if facial function returns. Very effective for protecting the eye while maintaining a natural appearance.

Costs vary based on treatment type. Medical management and Botox are relatively economical. Surgical reanimation procedures are more extensive and costlier, depending on complexity. Dr. Vidhyadharan offers comprehensive facial palsy care at THANC Hospital with detailed cost estimates provided during consultation based on your specific treatment plan.