Facial paralysis

Facial Paralysis

What Is It?

Facial paralysis is the inability to move the facial muscles, particularly affecting the orbicularis muscle, which is responsible for closing the eyelids. This can lead to several ocular problems, including:

Lagophthalmos: Inability to fully close the eyelids.
Ectropion: The eyelid turns outward, exposing the eye.
Watery eyes: Overproduction of tears due to incomplete closure of the eyelid.

What Causes Facial Paralysis?

Approximately half of facial paralysis cases have unknown causes. Common causes include:

Trauma or accidents: Injury to the facial nerve.
Tumours: Growths affecting the facial nerve.
Infections: Viral or bacterial infections impacting the facial nerve (e.g., Bell’s palsy).
Neurological diseases: Conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.
Surgical procedures: Eye surgery, parotid gland surgery, etc.

Symptoms:

Inability to move the face (partial or complete paralysis).
Inability to close the eyelids properly.
Red eye and excessive tearing due to incomplete eyelid closure.

Associated Treatments:

Treatment depends on the severity of facial paralysis and the associated eye issues. Surgical options to protect the eye and improve appearance may be required. Some common procedures include:

Gold and Platinum Weight Implantation: A small weight is implanted into the upper eyelid to help it close fully.
Transconjunctival Face Lift: A surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the skin around the eyelid.
Canthoplasty: Surgery to reposition the eyelid angle and tighten the skin around the eye to prevent excessive tearing and improve eyelid function.

Importance of Treatment:

Protecting the eye from dryness and infection is crucial, especially if the eyelid cannot fully close.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term damage to the eye and improve quality of life.