Facial Paralysis (Gold weight implant or Filler Injection)

Facial palsy is a weakness of facial muscles caused by Bell’s Palsy, tumor, trauma, stroke, viral infection, or an inflammatory process. This produces an asymmetry of the face and decreased facial expression. Since the muscles of the eyelids are paralyzed, one cannot close the eye on the affected side. This results in eye dryness, redness, tearing, and corneal abnormalities. Furthermore, the eyebrow and the side of the mouth may also show a droop. Eyelid closure can be improved in Facial palsy by eyelid gold weight implant surgery.



Temporary facial paralysis treated with Hyaluronic acid Filler injection. Improvement in corneal protection as well as symmetry of eye aperture.



Permanent left facial paralysis treated with upper eyelid gold weight implant to improve eye closure.

Surgical Time and Recovery:
Facial paralysis can recover completely or partially in a period of 6-12 months. Eyelid gold weight implant is a good treatment option if the cause of paralysis is likely to be permanent. Gold weight implants are made of 99% medical grade gold, and they improve gravity-assisted closure of the eyelid. The exact weight of the implant required is calculated before surgery by a gold weight trial procedure. Surgery is performed as an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes. Discomfort is minimal, and stitches are removed in 5-7 days. Most patients are back to light work within a week.

A simpler option is to aid in closure of the eyelid by a simple Filler injection (more popular for cosmetic treatments). It can last for up to a year, and provides an excellent non surgical option while recovery is awaited. Filler injection is performed as an outpatient basis after applying under local anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes.

Note:
Gold weight implant improves eyelid closure, thereby improving corneal protection. However, watering may not completely reduce, and lubricating drops may still be required. For facial palsy, additional procedures like brow lift, and midface lift may also be required. The mouth region can also be suspended to improve the appearance and function of the face.

Insurance:
Health insurance will cover the costs of procedures for facial paralysis (if it is not present since birth (congenital).

Other Procedures:
Other commonly performed reconstructive procedures include correction of Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty), Entropion, Ectropion, Eyelid Drooping, Eyelid and Skin cancer reconstruction, Facial Spasms, Watering Eyes, Thyroid Eye Disease, Orbital Surgery, and Trauma and Maxillofacial Surgery