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Bell’s Palsy In Austin, TX

A complex network of muscles and nerves controls our face. When these components are working as they should, we can speak, chew, and make facial expressions normally. If the facial nerves are disrupted, however, issues like Bell’s palsy, a type of facial paralysis, can occur. Individuals sometimes fully recover from Bell’s palsy, while others continue to experience smile asymmetry, issues with chewing, or eye, facial, or neck tightness and pain, a condition known as synkinesis. Plastic surgeons at the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Austin, Texas, help patients struggling with the effects of Bell’s palsy or synkinesis. Following treatment, patients are happier with their appearance, which leads to an increase in self-esteem.

What Is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes facial weakness or paralysis. Sudden facial nerve weakness causes one side of the face to droop and sag, preventing normal facial expressions on that side of the face. People of all ages can develop Bell’s palsy, and it can range in severity. Some people only experience mild weakness, while others develop total facial paralysis.

In addition to preventing normal facial expression, Bell’s palsy can cause other signs and symptoms of facial paralysis. These may include headache or pain on the affected side of the face, drooling, changes in tear and saliva production, trouble eating and drinking, as well as changes in taste. Many people are self-conscious about going out in public while they are suffering from Bell’s palsy symptoms.

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What Causes Bell’s Palsy?

The condition is thought to be caused by an inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve, which controls the facial muscles. Many people develop Bell’s palsy after a viral infection, such as herpes, flu, mumps, measles, shingles, or hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

Although anyone can develop Bell’s palsy, there are some risk factors. Pregnant women, as well as people who have diabetes or an upper respiratory infection, are more likely to experience inflammation of the facial nerve. While many people recover from Bell’s palsy without treatment, complications like eye damage, permanent damage to the nerve, or issues with nerve fiber regrowth can occur.

Diagnosing Bell’s Palsy

In many cases, testing is not required to diagnose Bell’s palsy. You may be asked to try moving your face so that the doctor can observe any paralysis that may be present. You might also be given a CT scan, an MRI, or electromyography, which can evaluate nerve damage.

Bell’s palsy is not the only condition that can cause facial paralysis, and your primary doctor may need to rule out other more serious causes. Usually, the diagnosis is made after other potential causes are eliminated as possibilities. If you are diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, you can talk to your doctor about the next steps.

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Treatments Options

Many people recover from Bell’s palsy within weeks or months, even without treatment. However, treatment can sometimes speed up recovery or help prevent complications. Potential treatments include:

  • Corticosteroids: Medications like corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation, allowing the nerves to recover faster.
  • Physical therapy and antiviral medications: Some patients also benefit from physical therapy and antiviral medications. Patients often need to wear an eye patch or otherwise protect their eye on the affected side, as the lid may not fully close.
  • Non-surgical and surgical treatments: If the effects of Bell’s palsy persist after six months or so, patients may benefit from non-surgical and surgical treatments to improve facial symmetry. Our surgeons specialize in treating this group of patients who do not fully recover from Bell’s palsy or develop synkinesis. This may include non-surgical treatments such as fillers or neuromodulators (e.g., BOTOX) or surgical treatments.
  • BOTOX: In some cases, BOTOX can also be used to help relax muscles on the normal side of the face or to control facial movements that can occur after recovering from Bell’s palsy (synkinesis). BOTOX is frequently used for other cosmetic purposes, such as relaxing facial muscles for wrinkle control, but it can be an effective therapy for Bell’s palsy patients.
  • Facial surgery: This can help patients look more like their old selves and help them to feel more confident and expressive. Generally, these procedures are performed by a skilled facial plastic surgeon. The surgery may focus on just one area, like the brows or eyelids, or it may involve the entire face.

Our surgeons offer several customized surgical options for individuals with Bell’s palsy or synkinesis. A patient may need selective neurolysis, which is a facial nerve surgery designed to decrease the activity of the muscles that are causing abnormal facial movements, pain, and tightness. Other individuals may require repositioning of asymmetrical facial tissues. This procedure is called symmetrical facial repositioning; nonetheless, to provide the patient with the results they desire, sometimes the patient needs to have a combination of procedures.

Why Choose The Buckingham Center For Facial Plastic Surgery?

The Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery offers a tailored journey dedicated to redefining your path through Bell's Palsy treatment. Our committed team, with a 24/7 facial plastic surgeon, brings over two decades of expertise to our accredited surgical suite. As Austin's trusted specialists in Bell's Palsy, our surgeons blend focused expertise with proven techniques, showcasing unique skills, top-level training, and a genuine passion for your well-being. Our care is characterized by a cheerful, respectful, and professional approach, ensuring an uplifting journey and transformative results in Bell's Palsy treatment.

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Are You A Candidate For Facial Nerve Surgery?

Because Bell’s palsy often resolves on its own, not all patients require surgery.

If symptoms persist and nerve damage continues to affect facial movements, facial nerve surgery may be the best option. Otherwise, healthy men and women may qualify for the procedure.

It is important to note that facial nerve surgery is a challenging surgery that requires patients to have realistic expectations. Procedures to balance out and symmetrize the face can yield impressive improvement, but the results will never be perfect. Most patients are thrilled with their results, however, and feel the surgery is worthwhile.

Your Bell’s Palsy & Synkinesis Treatment Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy or synkinesis and you are seeking treatment, it is essential to get help from a skilled facial plastic surgeon. The surgeon you choose must have extensive knowledge and experience performing procedures to address these two conditions. At The Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Austin, Texas, experienced surgeons address the signs and symptoms associated with both of these conditions.

During your consultation at the Buckingham Center, you will be asked about your history with Bell’s palsy or synkinesis, including when you were diagnosed. You should tell the doctor about any treatments you have already had, as well as what your goals are.

The surgeon will examine you and make a treatment recommendation. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Come to your meeting prepared with a list of questions you’d like to ask so you can get the most out of your appointment.

The Facial Reconstruction Procedure

Depending on the type of facial surgery you will be having, you may need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment. If your treatment is limited to Botox injections, you can go to your appointment alone. Each facial surgery is different. You may need facial implants, a lip or eyelid lift, a facelift, or nerve surgery to restore your appearance after Bell’s palsy. Incisions will be placed discreetly, and the goal will be to create a natural appearance and improved function. Both sides of the face may require surgery to ensure a balanced and symmetrical appearance. You will receive information on how to prepare for your procedure and what to expect during recovery. It is very important to follow all the pre and post-operative instructions that the doctor and staff provide. This will help to ensure good results and reduce your risk of developing complications.

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Risks Of Facial Nerve Surgery

Any plastic surgery procedure involves risks. If you are considering facial nerve surgery, it’s essential to understand the potential complications. The surgeon will go over the risks before your procedure. These will vary depending on your surgical plan but may include the following:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Anesthesia complications
  • Poor healing
  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Facial nerve damage
  • Unsatisfactory improvement

The good news is that risks are minimal when working with the skilled surgeons at The Buckingham Center. Our doctors make safety a top priority, and their experience reduces the likelihood of a patient experiencing a complication. Even so, patients need to be aware of the risks before moving forward with surgery. Our glowing reviews and excellent reputation have led individuals in the Austin area and beyond to choose the surgeons at the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery to perform their procedures. Patients who need facial nerve surgery will have peace of mind knowing that our surgeons consistently enhance and update their skills.

Bell's Palsy FAQ

How Long Can Bell’s Palsy Last For?

What Are the Best Treatments for Bell’s Palsy?

Should I Wait to See If My Bell’s Palsy Resolves on Its Own?

How Long Will My Recovery Be After Facial Reanimation Surgery?

Can Bell’s Palsy Come Back?

How Long Can Bell’s Palsy Last For?

Many patients gradually recover strength and muscle movement within six months. However, some complications can remain, and a few patients continue to experience the symptoms of Bell’s palsy after this time. Rarely can the condition reoccur later on.

What Are the Best Treatments for Bell’s Palsy?

Because it tends to resolve on its own, treatments are generally limited to therapies that help patients recover more quickly. Medication can reduce inflammation of the cranial nerve, and physical therapy, often combined with Botox injections, can help restore facial movement and control unwanted muscle contractions that may occur. Once the patient’s facial nerve has recovered, facial reanimation surgery may be performed if necessary. Not all patients will need surgery, but it is an option in some cases and can help patients look and feel more normal.

Should I Wait to See If My Bell’s Palsy Resolves on Its Own?

Bell’s palsy often resolves on its own and does not often reoccur. You should speak with your doctor about treatment options and the timeline of the condition before pursuing cosmetic treatments. It’s usually best to wait on surgery until you have given the issue time to resolve on its own. Botox might be a possible cosmetic treatment option in the meantime.

How Long Will My Recovery Be After Facial Reanimation Surgery?

It all depends on the extent of the surgery. Some people are back to work and other activities within a few days. Others need a month or more of recovery time. It is important to refrain from exercise and other strenuous activities during the first few weeks after surgery. During your recovery, you should follow all of your surgeon’s instructions carefully. This will help to ensure good results and reduce the risk of infection, poor healing, or some other complication. Most patients are pleased with their results and feel that the surgery and recovery are worth the outcome.

Can Bell’s Palsy Come Back?

Yes, although it is rare. Most people recover within six months and never have to deal with Bell’s palsy again.

Your Options For Bell’s Palsy Treatment

If you are considering facial reconstruction to address Bell’s palsy, the surgeons at The Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery can help. One of our surgeons will evaluate you during a private consultation; then, the surgeon will walk you through each of your options for cosmetic and functional improvement. To schedule a Bell’s palsy facial reanimation consultation at the Buckingham Center in Austin, Texas, call our offices today at 512-401-2500. Our friendly staff is standing by to guide you through the process.

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