The facial nerve is part of the cranial nerve group stemming from the brain. It’s responsible for facial expressions, and also provides the sense of taste for two-thirds of the tongue. This nerve is particularly vulnerable to damage during head trauma, which often results in facial paralysis. While not life-threatening, this is a serious condition, as losing control of facial movement can have a significant impact on a person’s social interactions and ability to communicate effectively. Fortunately, there are several oral surgeries and other remedies available to help restore nerve function. Here are some of the most common treatments. 

How to Repair Nerve Damage Following Facial Trauma

1. Cross-Facial Nerve Graft  

A cross-facial nerve graft is used to bring nerve stimulation from the non-paralyzed part of the face to the part that can no longer produce movement. This means a surgeon will relocate a nerve from one side of the face to the other to re-power muscles that have recently been paralyzed, but still show signs of movement.

2. Gracilis Muscle Transplant 

If a patient experiences irreversible or long-standing paralysis of the muscles that allow them to smile, a gracilis muscle transplant is typically preferred. Among the various oral surgery and treatment options, this offers the best chance of restoring the smile. It involves transferring a small portion of the inner thigh muscle to replace the affected facial muscles. 

3. Masseter Muscle Transfer

This is one of the most common techniques used in facial paralysis surgery. A surgeon will take segments of the muscle used to chew and reroute it to support the corner of the mouth. This will help re-establish the patient’s smile to a certain degree.

If you have experienced facial nerve damage due to head trauma from a car accident, fall, or sports-related injury, contact Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska to discuss your treatment options. Their doctors are board-certified in maxillofacial and oral surgery and have helped many Anchorage, AK, patients recover from facial paralysis. This team of medical professionals is committed to excellence and providing patients the highest level of care. Call (907) 561-1430 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for more information on their treatment options.