Facial Nerve Program

Facial Nerve

Smiling at a loved one. Enjoying a meal. Expressing your emotions. These simple acts become a challenge when facial nerves no longer work properly. 

The facial nerve is critical for:

  • Eye protection
  • Facial expression
  • Speaking
  • Eating
  • Other basic functions

Facial paralysis results from an injury to the facial nerve. It can appear suddenly or develop gradually over time.

Facial paralysis can cause the muscles to stop moving on one or both sides of your face. When paralysis occurs, it's because your facial nerves stop carrying signals to the muscles in your face. Some symptoms are temporary and get better over time. Others may be permanent, based on the underlying health problem.

Signs and Symptoms of Facial Paralysis

Facial paralysis can appear in many forms. Some symptoms of facial paralysis include:

  • Inability to raise an eyebrow
  • Inability to close eye
  • Eye dryness
  • Eye irritation
  • Facial droop
  • Inability to smile, pucker, or frown
  • Speaking difficulty
  • Trouble eating
  • Eating difficulty
  • Drooling
  • Cheek biting
  • Tightness in face
  • Facial pain 

Facial paralysis can be devastating to a person's well-being. The emotional and social challenges can be just as damaging as the physical symptoms. After all, it's part of being human to express emotions and communicate through facial expressions. Not being able to do that can cause emotional distress.

A Caring Team

At the heart of our team are specialists committed to offering expert care to every patient and family. We offer easy access to the best diagnostic, treatment and management services. 

Our team includes specialists from:

  • Microneurovascular surgery 
  • Neurotology 
  • Plastic surgery
  • Neuroradiology 
  • Facial Physical Therapy

There's Help for Facial Paralysis

If you or someone you love is dealing with facial paralysis, there's help. We are one of the largest facial nerve programs in the southeastern U.S. Facial paralysis can cause physical, mental and social problems. We offer state-of-the-art treatment to handle all the challenges that come with this condition.

About Us

The Facial Nerve Program is a key part of the larger Emory Brain Health Center. We are one of a few specialized centers worldwide treating brain disorders and diseases.

Make an Appointment with Emory Facial Nerve Program

If you have facial paralysis or suffer from facial nerve damage, we can help. To make an appointment, please call 404-778-7777.

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To make an appointment, please call 404-778-7777.
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