Facial Reanimation - Mayo Clinic

At Mayo Clinic, you’ll have the benefit of our multidisciplinary team approach. Your specialized facial paralysis and reanimation team will work together to provide you with a personalized care plan based on your goals and the areas of your face that are affected.

Your team will include a plastic surgeon, neurologist, oculoplastic surgeon, optometrist, electromyography (EMG) specialist, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, nurse practitioner, and nurse – as well as any other specialists you may need.

Mayo Clinic’s team of specialists offers all surgical and non-surgical solutions available to restore facial function and appearance in one location. This includes treatment for the eyelids and animation of the smile, mouth closure, and lower lip depression.

We see patients with different presentations of facial nerve problems. Prior to implementation of any treatment of facial paralysis, it is imperative to identify reasons for your facial nerve weakness. Through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, our team will guide your personalized evaluation and treatment.

Gracilis muscle transfer

Using microvascular surgery, muscle is placed under facial skin and connected to nerves to recreate a smile. This surgery is usually performed in two-stages to achieve a spontaneous smile.

Cross-face nerve grafts

This procedure allows the normal side of the face to be connected to the paralyzed side via a series of nerve grafts. The purpose of this surgery is to allow the normal side of the face to control the paralyzed side, which is essential for facial harmony and spontaneity.

Selective neurectomy

This surgery helps patients with synkinesis (unwanted movements) achieve a more balanced and refined smile, and symmetrical movements of the face.

Temporalis muscle transfer

This procedure can restore the ability to smile via a muscle transferred from the temple.

Lower lip animation

Refines the smile and restore symmetry.

Eyelid animation

Restores the eyelid closure.

Experts in Facial Paralysis and Reanimation, Centered Around You

We're with you every step of the way.

Innovation leads to better outcomes.

Innovative procedures we offer include:

Expert care, delivered efficiently.

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