Plastic Surgery Clinic – Facial Paralysis

The Facial Paralysis Clinic at UT Southwestern Medical Center’s Outpatient Clinic offers a multidisciplinary approach to evaluating and treating facial paralysis. Our specialists include plastic and reconstructive surgeons, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, radiologists, and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists.

Facial Paralysis Conditions We Treat at Our Clinic in Dallas

Facial palsy manifests in several forms and degrees of severity and often involves multiple aspects of the face. Common problems that are evaluated and treated at the Facial Paralysis Clinic include:

• Facial drooping and inability to smile
• Inability to close the eye
• Dry eyes or excessive tearing
• Low brow and inability to raise the brow
• Abnormal twitches and facial motion
• Complete laxity or exaggerated tone on the paralyzed side of the face
• Impaired speech
• Drooling of solid and/or liquid food
• Food getting stuck in the mouth on the paralyzed side

Our Facial Paralysis Treatment Services in Dallas

Our facial paralysis specialists treat the most complex facial paralysis problems. Treatment options depend on the cause, location, duration, and severity of the paralysis and can include:

• Eye protection and treatment, including lubricating ointments, eyelid weights, lower-eyelid surgery, and brow lifting
• Facial nerve rehabilitation
• Botox injections to treat abnormal facial motions
• Facial reanimation surgery
• Nerve grafts, nerve transfers, and muscle transfers
• Static procedures to improve facial symmetry and the position of the cheeks and lips

Appointment Information at the Facial Paralysis Clinic in Dallas

Most of our patients will consult first with a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

During your visit, you will be thoroughly evaluated for the reason behind the paralysis, followed by an examination and a discussion of treatment options. Your surgeon will show you photos or videos of other patients who have achieved good results through various treatments.

If the reason for the paralysis is unclear, you will likely consult with our neurologists and physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians.

What to Bring to Your Appointment at the Facial Paralysis Clinic

• Current insurance information
• Government-issued ID
• Method of payment (credit or debit card)
• A list of your current prescribed medications and over-the-counter (nonprescription) drugs, vitamins, or supplements
• A list of known drug allergies (if applicable)
• Relevant past medical records and X-rays
• Completed paperwork, if you received forms before the visit
• A list of questions for the specialist and something to take notes, if applicable

Patients may also bring someone with them to ask questions and take notes.

Canceling an Appointment at the Facial Paralysis Clinic

If you need to cancel your appointment, please notify the clinic at least 24 hours in advance so we may accommodate other patients who are waiting to schedule an appointment.