Discover Surgery Benefits for Facial Paralysis
Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Panossian specializes in Facial Paralysis Surgery, offering patients an unparalleled standard of care. Our cutting-edge techniques are designed to restore function and confidence. Explore the key benefits that our innovative surgical solutions can bring to your life.
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What is facial paralysis surgery?
Facial paralysis surgery refers to a series of reconstructive procedures that are designed to restore symmetry of the face following Bell’s palsy, trauma, or congenital absence of the facial nerve. Dr. Andre Panossian is an internationally recognized expert in facial paralysis and addresses all causes of facial nerve disorder.
There are many ways to categorize the causes of facial paralysis, most are based on facial nerve injury, compression, or inflammation.
The facial nerve can be injured anywhere along its path from the brainstem all the way into the facial muscles themselves.
There can be partial paralysis (facial weakness with some facial movement) or complete paralysis (absolutely no movement). Facial paralysis can affect one side or both sides of the face. It can also be characterized as congenital (existing from birth) or acquired (or, occurring later in life).
Treating Facial Paralysis
What do I do next?
If you have been doing your research on plastic surgeons for your cosmetic or reconstructive needs, then look no further. Dr. Panossian combines his passion for plastic surgery with a strong focus on patient well-being. The consultation is only the first encounter that will leave you feeling confident in your decision to pursue plastic surgery.
Andre Panossian MD
The Facial Nerve Expert
Dr. Panossian’s wealth of knowledge in the field is matched only by his highly skilled hand in the operating room. Rest assured that your best interests and desires for the absolute finest result is at the heart of his entire approach.
There are several options for pursuing a consultation with Dr. Panossian. The best way to get a proper assessment and surgical plan is to come into our office. A lengthy consultation will go over your options and answer any and all of your questions.
If you are located outside of the greater Los Angeles area, Dr. Panossian does offer Skype consultation. This does not substitute an in-person consultation, but for many living outside of Los Angeles, this a convenient first step.
“You no longer need to live with facial paralysis”
There are state-of-the-art options available for virtually every person and at every step of the way.
Facial paralysis conditions
Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis. There is no single known cause of Bell’s palsy. It is most often associated with facial nerve swelling and inflammation similar to what can occur during a viral illness.
Moebius Syndrome
In this condition, absence of the facial nerve on both sides of the face is commonly seen. Dr. Panossian has developed a unique surgery to animate the smile for these courageous individuals.
Acoustic Neuroma
Tumors and acoustic neuromas can affect the facial nerve indirectly along its course and cause facial paralysis. These usually arise from adjacent nerves that are close to the facial nerve and can create a compressive effect as they enlarge.
Facial Nerve Trauma
Trauma to the facial nerve of any type can cause facial paralysis. Whether the nerve is cut or bruised, function of the facial nerve will be impaired for a time depending on the degree of injury. Early surgery will establish nerve function.
Synkinesis
When facial nerve recovery is disorganized, it can sometimes cause synkinesis. This refers to the abnormal re-wiring of the facial nerve that can happen as facial paralysis resolves. This is most commonly seen after slow recovery of Bell’s palsy.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
This curious condition demonstrates shingles-like symptoms involving the ear and the facial nerve. It is, in fact, caused by the herpes zoster virus that is responsible for chicken pox and shingles. The symptoms can also affect hearing.
Treatment Areas of Facial Paralysis
Awards
Best Paper Award by The PRS
Dr. Panossian has received the highest honor bestowed by the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Journal, the pre-eminent publication of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Read about his ground-breaking smile reanimation technique.
Are You Ready For A Consultation?
If you are considering this procedure, booking a consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Panossian is a great way to learn about the procedure and determine if it’s right for you.
Andre Panossian MD
Philosophy
Plastic surgery is such a personal choice. It is important to have all the necessary information you need to make an informed decision, one that you will feel great about for a lifetime. That doesn’t mean picking just any plastic surgeon.
We believe that your health and safety comes first. Everything else pales in comparison. Along with this assumption, plastic surgery does not have to be painful or uncomfortable. It should be a positive overall experience with a lifetime of happiness to be gained.
In our practice, we strive to make your experience nothing short of spectacular from the first consultation to your very last post-operative visit. Dr. Panossian will answer all of your questions throughout this process so that you leave with a 5-star experience in every way.
Why choose Dr. Panossian?
- He received his medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine.
- Graduated at the top of his class at UCLA, receiving Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors.
- Was accepted into an elite combined general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
- Completed subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School.
- Was mentored by Dr. Ron Zuker in the practice of facial paralysis reconstruction. This prestigious fellowship position was available to only one surgeon in the United States.
- Is affiliated with various charitable and educational organizations, including Operation Smile and Mending Kids.
- Is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons, reserved for only a select group of individuals nationally who have demonstrated excellence in academic plastic surgery.
- Holds memberships in several other professional societies including the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
- He serves on the Board of Directors for Mending Kids and the Gondobay Manga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of lives in Sierra Leone.
- Has been nominated by his peers annually since 2012 as a “Super Doctor.”
- Served as an expert medical consultant and appeared on The Doctors, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nip/Tuck.
- Has been featured as “Top Doctor” in US News and World Report, Pasadena Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.
