Bilateral Facial Paralysis in New York City

Bilateral facial paralysis is a condition characterized by the weakness or loss of muscle function on both sides of the face. This results in difficulties with facial expressions, such as smiling, frowning, and closing the eyes, and can also impact speech and eating. 

Causes of Bilateral Facial Paralysis

Bilateral facial paralysis can be caused by:

1. Genetic Disorders: Conditions like Moebius syndrome.
2. Neurological Conditions: Disorders affecting the facial nerves.
3. Infections: Such as Lyme disease or viral infections.
4. Trauma: Injury to the facial nerves.
5. Tumors: Growths that impact facial nerve function.

These factors disrupt the normal functioning of the facial nerves, leading to paralysis on both sides of the face.

Treatments for Bilateral Facial Paralysis

Treatment options for bilateral facial paralysis in New York City include:

1. Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve muscle strength and coordination.
2. Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or antivirals, if the cause is an infection.
3. Surgical Interventions: Procedures like nerve grafts, muscle transfers, or eyelid surgery to restore function and symmetry.
4. Botox Injections: To balance muscle activity and improve facial symmetry.
5. Speech and Occupational Therapy: To help with speech and eating difficulties.
6. Assistive Devices: Eye protection devices to prevent dryness and injury if eyelid closure is affected.

Facial Reanimation Surgery

Facial reanimation procedures encompass various surgical techniques, each tailored to the patient’s specific needs and the underlying cause of their paralysis. These techniques may include:

• Nerve Transfers: Healthy nerves from other areas of the body are rerouted to the facial muscles, allowing for restored voluntary movement.
• Muscle Transplants: Damaged or non-functional facial muscles are replaced with muscle transplants to recreate natural facial expressions.
• Dynamic Smile Restoration: The ultimate goal is to restore dynamic smiling through surgical techniques combined with post-operative physical therapy.

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Dr. Rakhna Araslanova, a leading expert in facial nerve surgery, offers advanced surgical techniques to improve facial function and appearance for patients with bilateral facial paralysis. These procedures aim to restore facial symmetry, reduce synkinesis (involuntary muscle movements), and enhance overall facial aesthetics. Dr. Araslanova’s extensive experience and innovative approaches provide hope and transformative outcomes for individuals with this challenging condition.

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