This article explores facial paralysis – a rare but significant complication associated with parotid surgery.
During parotid surgery, there is a level of risk to the facial nerve, a delicate structure that is responsible for the full scope of facial movement and muscle function control. Although most patients will undergo parotid surgery without any complications, in rare cases the facial nerve is damaged during the procedure, resulting in facial paralysis.
Facial paralysis is a loss of facial movement due to nerve damage. It typically occurs on just one side of the face and can cause a number of complications, including an asymmetrical appearance, difficulty eating or drinking, an inability to express emotion, and facial pain. In addition, facial paralysis can cause eye damage due to an inability to fully close the eyelids.