Patient Overview
A 45-year-old male presented with complete left-sided facial nerve paralysis following acoustic neuroma surgery. The surgery, which aimed to remove a benign tumor affecting the hearing and balance nerve, resulted in severe damage to the facial nerve.
The patient experienced:
- Inability to smile or make facial expressions
- Difficulty blinking and closing the left eye, leading to dry eye issues
- Noticeable facial asymmetry
- Emotional distress due to the loss of facial function, impacting his confidence and social interactions
Procedure: Facial Nerve Paralysis Rehabilitation
Step 1: Nerve Grafting
Dr. Jérôme performed a nerve grafting procedure to restore damaged facial nerves, particularly addressing the regions impacted by the acoustic neuroma surgery. This allowed new nerve pathways to form, aiding the return of muscle control.
Step 2: Muscle Reanimation
Muscle reanimation was done to bring back functional movement to the key areas of the face, enabling the patient to smile and blink again. This procedure helped re-establish symmetry and control over facial muscles, which were weakened by the nerve damage.
Step 3: Minimally Invasive Techniques
Using a minimally invasive approach, Dr. Jerome ensured that scarring was minimal and recovery time was shorter, with small incisions and careful surgical planning.
Outcome: Physical and Emotional Recovery
⟶ Physical Improvement
- Week 1: Sensation returned to the left side of the face, with minimal swelling.
- Week 4: The patient could blink and close his left eye fully, reducing the risk of dry eye and irritation.
- Month 3: The ability to smile naturally was restored, with improved facial symmetry.
- Month 6: Full facial mobility returned, and the patient experienced near-complete recovery of function, with minimal visible scarring.
⟶ Emotional Improvement
- Confidence Restored: As facial function improved, the patient’s self-confidence surged, particularly as he could once again smile and engage in social interactions.
- Reduced Anxiety: Being able to make facial expressions reduced the patient’s emotional distress, allowing for better social and professional relationships.
- Overall Quality of Life: Both functional and aesthetic recovery drastically improved the patient’s quality of life, enabling him to resume daily activities without fear or embarrassment.
Conclusion
Following acoustic neuroma surgery complications, Dr. Jérôme Paris successfully restored the patient’s face’s functionality and aesthetic balance. With over 25 years of global experience in head and neck surgery and facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jerome is renowned for blending precision with artistry, delivering exceptional results for complex cases like this. Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, he provides multilingual care tailored to the unique needs of his patients across Marseille, Paris, London, and Dubai.
As the recipient of the Best Plastic Surgeon, France 2021 award, Dr. Jerome’s reputation extends globally, recognized for his commitment to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. His expertise in facial nerve rehabilitation demonstrates why patients from around the world seek his care to restore not just function, but also confidence and quality of life.
Transforming Lives with Precision and Care
If you or a loved one are experiencing facial nerve paralysis or need expert reconstructive care, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jérôme Paris and experience world-class expertise. Contact us to begin your journey to restored function and renewed confidence.
