Facial Paralysis in Long Island, NY
Facial paralysis, sometimes referred to as “Bell’s Palsy,” is a condition that causes you to lose control over your facial muscles. For the residents of Long Island, Queens and surrounding communities in New York, Eunice E. Park, MD, a dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon and ear, nose, and throat (otolaryngology) specialist, offers diagnostic and treatment services for facial paralysis.
What is Facial Paralysis?
When the facial nerve stops functioning properly, you may experience facial paralysis. The condition is rare, but it can affect patients of any age. Damage to the facial nerve may occur due to excessive pressure or inflammation, such as what occurs after an accident or during contact sports. Your face has two facial nerves, so facial paralysis may occur on one or both sides of the face depending on the nature of the nerve damage. Facial paralysis may affect the:
- Tongue
- Saliva glands
- Ears
- Face
- Eyes
Benefits of Treatment for Facial Paralysis
Treatment for facial paralysis may reduce the frequency and severity of the symptoms as well as to prevent complications.
What are the Common Symptoms of Facial Paralysis?
The most common symptoms of facial paralysis are:
- Involuntary distortions of the face
- Problems with taste
- Mild to severe facial weakness
- Difficulty with facial expressions
- Drooling
- Ear pain
- A heavy feeling in the face
- Changes to one side of the face, such as parts of the face sagging downward
Your face may feel normal, but you notice changes when you look in the mirror. The symptoms may appear suddenly or develop over time. Some of the symptoms of facial paralysis are similar to the aging process, so you should be evaluated by Dr. Park. As a dual board-certified plastic surgeon and ENT specialist, she can determine the reason that your face is changing and recommend appropriate treatments.
How is Facial Paralysis Diagnosed and Treated?
Facial paralysis is generally diagnosed by determining what is not causing changes to your face. Dr. Park will evaluate you for signs of stroke, aging, infections, trauma, cancer, Lyme disease and other medical concerns that can affect the face.
Treatment may include medications and advanced protocols. People with facial paralysis need to have good support symptoms as the physical symptoms can be detrimental to people’s self-esteem and comfort in public. People with facial paralysis may also have difficulty speaking, seeing and hearing, so having someone available to help is good for overall emotional well-being.
How Much Does Treatment for Facial Paralysis Cost in Long Island, NY?
Medical insurance may cover a portion of the cost for treating facial paralysis. Your out-of-pocket expenses can be paid by cash, check, and major credit card.
Facial paralysis can be caused by several medical conditions, including strokes, tumors and Lyme disease. If you are experiencing symptoms of facial paralysis and live in Long Island, Queens and surrounding communities in New York, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Eunice E. Park.
