For patients who have permanent weakness or paralysis of the
muscles that are used in facial expression, Duke’s surgeons and
other specialists work together to restore facial expression,
especially the ability to smile.
Specialists from plastic surgery, speech therapy, and
physical therapy provide a coordinated effort to patients, many
of whom travel from a distance to receive the comprehensive
care offered at Duke.
A child with congenital facial paralysis is born with
complete paralysis of muscles of facial expression on one or
both sides. This extremely rare condition can now be treated
with high expectations.
Such paralysis can occur alone or as part of a syndrome such
as Moebius Syndrome. Whatever the cause, Duke’s program can
help.
Surgery
Duke’s surgeons have experience and success in surgery to
help create a symmetrical smile and improve speech.
One nerve controls the muscles of the mouth, forehead,
eyelids, and nose. When this nerve is damaged, all aspects of
the facial expression, including the smile, are affected.
Surgery can restore the ability to smile and also support
those other muscles, to improve facial expression.
The surgery may involve nerve grafts as well as transferring
living muscle tissue from elsewhere in the body.
For appointments, patients should call the office of Dr.
Marcus at 919-684-6740.
Locations
This service is available at:
