Facial nerve paralysis can be produced by a large number of conditions, including Bell's palsy, trauma, tumors, and congenital differences such as Moebius Syndrome. Loss of facial nerve function often results in severe cosmetic and functional problems including impairment of facial expression, speech, eating and vision. Self-consciousness and social isolation frequently arise in the wake of these physical changes. Innovative surgical techniques are now available to restore the paralyzed face.

The goals of surgery include protecting the eye, preventing drooling and re-establishing facial symmetry both in motion and at rest. The surgical approach is customized to the individual patient and is influenced by the cause and duration of the paralysis along with the condition of the facial nerve.The use of advanced surgical techniques carefully tailored to the individual can provide a meaningful recovery for many patients living with facial paralysis.