Facial Paralysis treatment in NJ & Philly
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki, a Harvard-trained and double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and expert in facial reanimation, offers treatment for facial paralysis in New Jersey and Philadelphia. Causes of facial paralysis include inflammation, infection, trauma, stroke, tumors, or facial nerve diseases, which can severely affect expressions and vital functions. Even in irreversible cases, Dr. Yamasaki’s personalized treatments can help restore movement and symmetry, making her a leading choice for facial paralysis care in the region.
Experience the Excellence of Dr. Yamasaki, Harvard-Trained Facial Plastic Surgeon.
Key Takeaways
- Facial paralysis treatment can improve facial movement, expression, and important functions such as smiling, eating, speaking, blinking, and closing the eyes.
- Treatment is individualized based on the cause, severity, duration of paralysis, and remaining facial nerve and muscle function.
- Treatment may involve medications, Botox injections, rehabilitation therapy, static procedures, or facial reanimation surgery.
- Temporalis tendon transfer is a dynamic facial reanimation procedure used to help restore movement at the corner of the mouth. Published research has demonstrated improvements in smile symmetry following the procedure, including a study of 25 patients.
- The results of facial paralysis treatment include improved facial movement, emotional expression, and non-verbal communication.
- Facial paralysis treatment cost in New Jersey and Philadelphia varies based on the cause, severity, and treatment approach, but since it often involves functional impairment, insurance coverage is common.
Facial Paralysis Treatment at a Glance
| Topic | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Who May Be a Candidate? | People who have difficulty moving the facial muscles on one or both sides of the face due to facial nerve damage may be candidates for treatment. |
| Non-Surgical Treatment | Options may include corticosteroids, antivirals, Botox injections, and physical, speech, or occupational therapy. |
| Surgical Treatment | Depending on the patient's needs, surgery may include eyelid or brow procedures, static sling surgery, facial reanimation, selective facial nerve neurectomy, facial advancement, or other reconstructive approaches. |
| Cost & Insurance | Treatment costs vary depending on the cause and severity of facial paralysis and the procedures required. Because facial paralysis may cause significant functional impairment, some treatments may qualify for insurance coverage depending on the patient's plan. |
| Expected Results | Treatment may improve facial movement, emotional expression, function, symmetry, and non-verbal communication. |
The Life-Changing Benefits of Facial Paralysis Treatment
What is Facial Palsy or Facial Paralysis?
Facial palsy is a medical condition characterized by the loss of voluntary muscle movement on one or both sides of the face. When there is a complete loss of facial movement, this is referred to as facial paralysis. Facial palsy occurs when there is damage to the facial nerve, also known as Cranial Nerve 7, which controls the muscles of the face. In some instances such as stroke, damage to the brain can also lead to facial weakness and loss of facial muscle function.
The severity of facial palsy can range from mild weakness to complete loss of facial movement. Symptoms may include:
- Drooping of one side of the face
- Inability to close the eye or blink
- Loss of facial expression
- Inability to smile
- Difficulty with speaking or eating
- Drooling
- Altered sense of taste
- Pain around the jaw, face, or ear
Causes of Facial Palsy
Facial palsy, or facial paralysis, can be caused by various factors that temporarily or permanently damage or impair the facial nerve. Causes of facial palsy include:
- Bell’s Palsy (sudden loss of facial movement on one side of the face), which is the most common cause of facial palsy
- Stroke (due to disrupted blood flow to the brain)
- Physical trauma or injury to the face or skull
- Ear surgery, skull base surgery, and facial surgery
- infections such as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (Herpes Zoster Oticus), Lyme disease, and middle ear infections
- Tumors compressing the facial nerve
- Neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Congenital conditions such as Mobius syndrome
- Autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis and vasculitis
Identifying the specific cause is important for effective treatment and management.
Facial Nerve Synkinesis
Even in cases of temporary facial nerve injury or infection, there can be permanent changes to facial nerve function due to abnormal regrowth of the facial nerve after it has recovered from the initial damage. This causes a condition called facial nerve synkinesis. In facial nerve synkinesis, unintended facial muscle movements occur simultaneously with voluntary movements due to miswiring of the facial nerve. This can causes a sensation of severe facial tightness and can also be associated with facial pain. This can happen after conditions such as Bell’s Palsy and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.
Diagnosing Facial Palsy
The diagnosis of facial paralysis involves a physical examination by an experienced specialist to determine the involved facial nerve branches and/or facial muscles and the severity of injury. Imaging studies such as MRI, CT scan, and blood work may also be needed to help determine the underlying cause of the paralysis.
Dr. Yamasaki satisfied my every need
“I was feeling so much pressure in my sinuses and Dr. Yamasaki satisfied my every need and answered every question I had regarding my sinus issues. She made the whole process quick and painless. 10 out of 10 would come back and see her again if and when I have any issues.”
Grace DiSimoni
Ideal Candidates for Facial Paralysis Treatment
The ideal candidates for facial paralysis treatment are individuals who have difficulty moving some or all muscles on one or both sides of the face. This could result from various causes, such as infection, inflammation, trauma/surgery, tumors, stroke, autoimmune conditions, and neurologic disorders. The available treatment options will depend on the severity of facial palsy, the anticipated recovery, and the overall health of the patient.
Non-surgical Treatments for Facial Paralysis
Recovering from Facial Paralysis
Recovery from facial paralysis varies depending on the cause, severity, and treatment methods used. For some patients, recovery may be smooth, while others may face a slower recovery or may develop facial synkinesis that requires ongoing follow-up and procedures to treat abnormal facial functioning. It is essential to work closely with Dr. Alisa Yamasaki and her team to continue to monitor your recovery process and develop a personalized treatment plan depending on your specific situation.
Surgical Treatments for Facial Paralysis
Surgical treatment options for facial palsy aim to restore facial movement, improve symmetry, and enhance the patient’s overall appearance and function. The appropriate surgical approach depends on the cause, duration, and severity of the paralysis, as well as the patient’s overall health and goals. Here are some common surgical treatment options:
Dr. Yamasaki will closely monitor your progress during the recovery period and address any concerns you may have. She will also advise you on the appropriate time to re-pierce your ears, if desired.
Before & After Facial Paralysis Treatment
Cost of Facial Paralysis Treatment in New Jersey & Philadelphia
The cost of facial paralysis treatment in New Jersey and Philadelphia can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and the chosen treatment method. The cost of treatment is often covered by insurance when considered medically necessary.
Dr. Yamasaki’s office will help to determine your insurance coverage for the facial palsy procedures or surgeries you may require.
Facial Paralysis Treatment Results
The results of facial paralysis treatment can vary depending on the underlying cause, severity, and chosen treatment method. Patients may experience significant improvements in facial movement, smiling, facial expression, facial pain, and critical facial functions such as blinking, eye closure, speaking, and eating. It is important to remember that recovery can be gradual, and some patients may require ongoing therapies and treatments to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki and her team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals so that you can regain facial function and improve your quality of life.
Why Choose Dr. Alisa Yamasaki for Your Facial Paralysis Treatment?
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki’s expertise and dedication to patient care make her an excellent choice for individuals seeking facial paralysis treatment in New Jersey and Philadelphia. She has written several book chapters on facial reanimation and facial paralysis treatment and has extensive fellowship training in these surgeries. Here are some reasons to choose Dr. Yamasaki for your facial paralysis treatment:
- Harvard-trained and double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and Otolaryngologist–Head and Neck Surgeon, certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.
- B.A. from Dartmouth College and M.D. from Harvard Medical School.
- Residency training through Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and other leading Harvard teaching hospitals.
- Fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Michigan, with advanced reconstructive training relevant to facial paralysis and skin cancer reconstruction.
- Expertise in facial paralysis surgery and facial reanimation, including cross-face nerve grafting, facial nerve grafting, interposition nerve grafting, and facial reconstruction.
- Author of nearly 50 scientific articles, textbook chapters, and national and international conference presentations, with contributions related to facial reanimation and facial paralysis treatment. Learn more about Dr. Yamasaki’s training and publications.
Request a Consultation for Facial Paralysis
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki, MD, is a Harvard-trained Facial Plastic Surgeon specializing in facial paralysis surgery to restore movement and symmetry. With expertise in advanced reconstructive techniques, she helps patients regain function and confidence.
If you or a loved one is experiencing facial paralysis, schedule a consultation at Yamasaki Facial Plastic Surgery in New Jersey & Philadelphia to explore personalized treatment options.
Facial Paralysis Questions
Can facial paralysis be cured?
The possibility of treating facial paralysis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, facial paralysis may resolve on its own with time. In other cases, complete cure is not possible and there can be long-term problems with facial function. Regardless of your situation, Dr. Yamasaki can help you to determine the next steps in your treatment.
How do you treat Bell's palsy?
It is critical to begin treatment for Bell’s palsy as soon as possible after diagnosis. This may include corticosteroids and antiviral medications to reduce facial nerve inflammation.
What causes facial paralysis?
Facial palsy is the loss of voluntary muscle movement in one or both sides of the face. Facial palsy is also known as facial paralysis when there is no voluntary movement of the face. It can be caused by many different conditions, including facial nerve inflammation, infection, trauma/surgery, brain tumors, facial tumors, stroke, neurological conditions, and autoimmune disease. These conditions may result in temporary or permanent nerve dysfunction that leads to varying degrees of facial palsy and facial paralysis.
How is facial paralysis diagnosed?
Facial paralysis is diagnosed by an in-depth examination of your facial movements by a facial nerve expert. Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, and lab work may also be used to support the diagnosis and confirm the underlying cause of the paralysis.
What treatments are available for facial paralysis?
Treatments for facial paralysis include non-surgical options such as corticosteroids and antivirals immediately after onset of symptoms. Longer term treatments include non-surgical options such as Botox injections, and physical/speech/occupational therapy as well as surgical treatments like static facial surgery (e.g., static sling, eyelid surgery, brow surgery, asymmetric facial advancement), dynamic facial reanimation surgery (e.g., nerve transfers, cross-facial nerve graft), targeted muscle excision, and selective neurectomy.
What is the difference between temporary and permanent facial paralysis?
Temporary facial paralysis is a condition that resolves over time, either on its own or with treatment. Permanent facial paralysis, on the other hand, is a condition where nerve damage or dysfunction is irreversible. This includes conditions such as facial synkinesis, in which abnormal facial nerve recovery leads to long-term unwanted facial movements and facial tightness.
How much does treatment for facial paralysis cost in New Jersey and Philadelphia?
The cost of facial paralysis treatment in New Jersey and Philadelphia can vary widely depending on factors such as the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and chosen treatment method. Treatment is covered by insurance when considered medically necessary. Dr. Yamasaki and her team will work with you to determine your insurance coverage for any facial palsy procedures or surgeries you may need.
What practice near me helps with facial paralysis?
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki’s practice extensively treats facial paralysis in New Jersey and Philadelphia. With her expertise and dedication to patient care, Dr. Yamasaki offers a personalized approach to help you achieve the best possible results.
- Last Update: 08/20/2026
Dr. Alisa Yamasaki is a Harvard-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeon serving patients in New Jersey and Philadelphia. She specializes in facial plastic surgery, facial rejuvenation, reconstructive surgery, and personalized aesthetic treatment planning.