Botox for Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles in one side of the face. It can be very frustrating for those that suffer and dramatically decrease their quality of life. Bell’s Palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis and affects about one in 5,000 people per year.

Recovery from Bell’s Palsy may take up to nine months, but not all people experience a full recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling through facial weakness caused by Bell’s Palsy, it is important to know there are treatment options available. A visit to your plastic surgeon could dramatically improve the function and appearance of your facial features.

Botox Injections for Facial Paralysis

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can be used to treat either the affected or the unaffected side of the face in people with long-term Bell’s Palsy. If used in the affected side of the face, the injection relaxes tight facial muscles and limits unwanted muscle movements. If Botox is injected on the opposing facial side, it can relax muscles that have become over dominant, which creates a more balanced appearance.

In addition, Botox can help those with long-term complications such as tears when eating and eye-mouth synkenesias, which is when a regrowth of nerves causes unwanted winking of the eye during mouth movements. Botox for Bell’s Palsy will likely need to be repeated every few months depending on your circumstances.

If you are suffering from complex Bell’s Palsy symptoms of the face, you should turn to an experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Ben Talei for help. He uses a combination of Botox and surgical techniques that improve the appearance of the eyes, including eyelid lifts or eyebrow lifts as well as restore symmetry around your mouth. Not only can a plastic surgeon improve the appearance of your face after Bell’s Palsy, but they can also restore function in eating, speaking and vision as well. Today’s advancements in facial plastic surgery allow Bell’s palsy patients to regain a more confident life.