Facial Palsy
Introduction to Facial Palsy
Facial palsy refers to weakness in the facial muscles, which may be temporary or permanent. This condition can arise from various causes, including congenital factors, trauma, malignancies, or, most commonly, post-viral inflammation of the nerve. The physical and psychosocial impacts of facial palsy can be significant in almost all cases.
Bell’s Palsy: A Common Form of Facial Palsy
Bell’s palsy is a form of rapidly onset, inflammatory facial palsy. It typically results from viral infections, leading to nerve compression at the skull base. This condition affects between 20-30 out of 100,000 people annually. After ruling out serious conditions like stroke or malignancy, patients should begin corticosteroid treatment within 72 hours of symptom onset. If vesicles are present around the eyes, ears, face, or mouth, Ramsay Hunt syndrome should be considered, and antiviral treatment may be necessary. During the acute phase, corneal protection is crucial to prevent exposure keratitis, involving regular eye drops and night-time eye taping.
Long-Term Effects and Treatment Options
While most individuals recover, up to 30% of those with Bell’s palsy may experience lasting effects, including permanent facial muscle paralysis or synkinesis. If full recovery is not achieved within three months, it suggests more significant nerve damage, necessitating early referral for specialist treatment.
Synkinesis treatment is multimodal, involving facial physiotherapy, chemo-denervation of tight muscles using botulinum toxin, and potentially surgery. Surgical options for synkinesis include selective neurectomy or myomectomy to weaken hypertonic muscles or procedures like nerve grafting, nerve transfer, or free tissue transfer to restore function.
Progressive Facial Palsy and Malignancies
For patients with progressive facial palsy, it is essential to consider malignancies such as metastatic cutaneous carcinomas, especially in populations with high skin cancer rates like Australia. Patients presenting with facial masses or gradual onset facial weakness should be referred immediately for further investigation and management.
Why Choose Eastern Facial Palsy Specialists
At Eastern Facial Palsy Specialists, a division of Eastern Plastic Surgery, our surgeons have extensive experience in managing facial palsy. We welcome inquiries from patients and referrers, offering expert care and a comprehensive approach to treatment.
*Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
Ethical Guidance
Consultations focus on clinical assessment, patient education and informed consent. Procedures are recommended only when clinically appropriate.
Team of highly qualified doctors & nurses
Uniquely qualified professionals dedicated to your wellbeing, safety and comfort throughout your journey.
Surgical Planning and Technique
Each procedure is planned using established surgical techniques, with consideration given to anatomy, safety and procedural requirements.
Complete Transparency
Clear information about procedures, risks, outcomes, and realistic recovery timelines from consultation to recovery.
Prestigious Training
All surgeons have specialist appointments at University teaching hospitals and maintain ongoing education.
Bespoke Approach
Your treatment plan is uniquely designed around your anatomy, aesthetic goals and lifestyle—never a standardised solution.
Dr Tam Quinn
MED0001217095
MBBS, FRACS(PLAST)
Registered Medical Practitioner
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Tam Quinn graduated from Monash University in 2008 before undergoing specialty training in both general surgery and plastic surgery, during which she rotated through a number of hospitals including St Vincent’s Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Royal Children’s Hospital. In 2020 she was recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons as a specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.
Meet Dr Frank Lin
MED0001193706
MBBS, FRACS(PLAST)
Registered Medical Practitioner
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr Frank Lin is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and founder of Eastern Plastic Surgery and EST Clinic. Dr Lin’s areas of interest include facial and breast aesthetic surgery, as well as non-surgical aesthetic treatments.
Dr Lin currently serves on the executive board of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) and the Membership Committee of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS) representing Australia.
Ready to Discuss Your Options?
Contact our team today to arrange a comprehensive consultation where we’ll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and create a tailored treatment plan. Connect with our expert surgeons to discuss your aesthetic goals in a welcoming environment where your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our priorities.
