Surgical Options for Long-Term Symptoms of Bell's Palsy

Bell's palsy is a rare disorder that impacts the functioning of the nerve that controls the movement of the face. For a majority of patients, facial paralysis and other side effects will improve within a few weeks to a couple of months. But for a small number of patients, it can last even longer, requiring a surgical procedure to help their quality of life. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Sarah Akkina, MD, discusses "facial reanimation" and the many surgical options available to treat the debilitating effects of long-term Bell's palsy and give patients back their ability to smile.