Smiling, Eating, Speech and Eye Closure 
Facial expression is fundamental to human communication and so disorders of the facial nerve are socially and functionally debilitating. Often the simple act of smiling caan be affected by damage to a facial nerve. As Mr Townley describes, "The facial nerve powers the muscles that are responsible for essential emotional expressions such as smiling as well as basic functions including, eating, speech and eye closure. Facial nerve injuries can therefore be devastating, leading to significant disfigurement and impaired function." He goes on to say, "In particular, the inability to smile can have an appalling effect on quality of life".
Combining Effective Treatment Options
Many patients subsequently experience a reluctance to appear in public, and refrain from simple pleasures such as dining out. In addition, the streaming eyes, nasal airway blockage and oral incontinence that afflict patients with facial nerve disorders only contribute to the constant menace.
Mr Townley describes the following non-surgical and surgical treatment options:
Mr William Townley, Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon explains the options from Botulinum toxin to surgery for patients with facial nerve damage. Click here for further information and full article.
