Facial reanimation surgery
Surgery to help reverse the effects of facial paralysis
Reconstruction surgery can help correct facial palsy and bring symmetry back to your face
About
Facial reanimation surgery can help restore voluntary movement to your face. And it can recreate a symmetrical smile in those suffering from facial palsy (paralysis).
Surgery may be used along with other treatments but may not be able to restore nerve function in your face.
Need to know
-
What happens icon plus
Surgery can involve having nerve grafts from other parts of the body to treat both nerve damage and the nerve itself, or cartilage grafts to support muscles. One procedure uses small tubes surgically implanted in the face to guide regrowth of the facial nerve. It's also possible to transfer a muscle from another part of the body (usually the leg or torso) into the paralysed side of the face. In the first stage of surgery, a nerve graft is taken from the opposite side of the face. Several months later, after the nerve endings have grown across the face, the second stage to transfer the muscle can be done. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will let you know what surgery options are available to you. Your treatment will be tailored according to your needs, as there are a range of surgical operations available. Most people need several procedures to reverse the paralysis in their face. Your treatment will be tailored to your individual circumstances. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. If you're having a general anaesthetic, your consultant will let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before your operation. -
Afterwards icon plus
Your consultant will let you know how long your recovery will take. You'll probably be off work for about two weeks. And you should need at least one night in hospital following your operation but this depends on the surgery you have.
Don't wait, pay for yourself
You don’t need health insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.
Our consultants
We're proud to work with leading experts from a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Request an appointment
Our booking teams can help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.