Facial nerve paralysis: Recovery through retraining and reanimation

At UW Health, we understand the challenges facial nerve paralysis brings. At our Facial Nerve Clinic, our extensive team of specialists is ready to help. We offer advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatments. We also offer emotional and psychological support.

When you have facial nerve paralysis, one side of your face droops. On very rare occasions it can happen on both sides of your face. It may make it hard to smile or close your eyes and can change the way your body produces saliva and tears. It can also cause pain in your ear and make it more sensitive to sound. The paralysis can change your sense of taste on one side of your tongue and make it hard to speak as well.

Doctors don’t always find a definite cause for a person’s facial drooping. Many times, symptoms will resolve on their own usually within three months. Whether your paralysis is new or long-term (chronic), the Facial Nerve Clinic can help you.

Treatment depends on your condition and when it developed.

The following resources can help you better understand your condition and prepare you for your visit to the Facial Nerve Clinic.

Frequently asked questions

At UW Health, we have specialists in ear, nose and throat surgery, facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery. They’re joined by neurosurgeons and oculofacial plastic surgeons who specialize in disorders of the eyelids, tear ducts and face. Our team also includes health psychologists and physical therapists who focus on facial nerve paralysis.

Our quick reference tools assist providers in evaluating facial paralysis and synkinesis in their patients and also include referral information to the Facial Nerve Clinic.