Head & Neck Center

Facial Paralysis Rehabilitation Unit

The unit

Accurate diagnosis. Expertise in the functional restoration of facial expression.

The Facial Paralysis Rehabilitation Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital provides specialist assessment and medical, surgical and rehabilitative treatment for peripheral facial paralysis, using personalised approaches designed to restore facial function and optimise muscle control.

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Dr Carlos Martín Oviedo
Head of the unit

Dr Carlos Martín Oviedo

Specialist in
  • Surgery and rehabilitation for facial paralysis.
  • Middle ear surgery: Otosclerosis, chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma.
  • Vestibular schwannoma and neurofibromatosis type 2.
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Medical team

Our specialists

Dr Miguel Arístegui Ruiz

Dr Miguel Arístegui Ruiz

Specialist in
  • Vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) surgery.

  • Complex otological surgery and lateral skull base surgery.

  • Surgery for cochlear implants and other implantable devices.

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Patient information

Facial Paralysis Rehabilitation Unit

The Facial Paralysis Rehabilitation Unit treats people with acute peripheral facial paralysis or established sequelae who require a specialist assessment to regain function, symmetry and muscle control.

It intervenes when damage to the facial nerve impairs eye closure, facial expression or oral function, and an individualised treatment strategy needs to be devised.

Assessment of peripheral facial paralysis

The unit is aimed at people with facial paralysis resulting from inflammatory, traumatic, tumour-related or surgical causes, as well as patients with chronic sequelae presenting with asymmetry, synkinesis or muscle contractures.

Assessment is particularly indicated when there is insufficient spontaneous recovery or when functional impairments persist after the acute phase.

The initial aim is to determine the extent of nerve damage, the duration of the condition and the likelihood of recovery through conservative treatment or surgical intervention.

When is a specialist assessment required? Surgical intervention is indicated in the absence of adequate recovery, in cases of incomplete reinnervation, or where persistent functional sequelae are present.

Functional assessment and treatment planning

The process begins with a detailed assessment of facial mobility, eye function and symmetry at rest and in motion.

Where indicated, further investigations are carried out to assess the integrity of the facial nerve and residual muscle activity. Each case is analysed according to its stage of progression, distinguishing between strategies aimed at early recovery and reconstructive techniques for established sequelae.

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Medical, surgical and facial rehabilitation treatment

The approach focuses on functional rehabilitation through structured facial physiotherapy programmes designed to promote neuromuscular recovery, improve symmetry and optimise movement control.

Specific eye protection measures are incorporated to preserve the corneal surface in patients with incomplete eyelid closure, as well as neuromuscular re-education strategies tailored to the patient’s clinical progress.

In selected cases, the treatment plan may be supplemented with botulinum toxin injections to control synkinesis or contractures, thereby facilitating better coordination of facial movement.

Where recovery is insufficient or permanent sequelae are present, surgical options are considered, such as the insertion of eyelid weights, reinnervation procedures (masseteric or hypoglossal) or cross-face techniques, always as part of a comprehensive strategy for functional recovery.

Every face requires a unique approach.
Every face requires a unique approach.

Functional monitoring and progressive adjustment

Recovery from facial paralysis is a dynamic process that requires regular check-ups.

A follow-up plan is established to assess progress, adjust the rehabilitation programme and evaluate the need for further interventions. This ongoing monitoring enables early intervention in the event of muscular imbalances and optimises results in the medium and long term.

Monitoring the progression of the condition is key in facial paralysis Regular check-ups make it possible to assess muscle recovery, adjust the rehabilitation programme and take early action to address any potential imbalances.

Clear information and support throughout the entire process

Facial paralysis has a significant functional and emotional impact that requires specialised and ongoing care. The team comprises surgeons and specialists with specific expertise in facial surgery, reinnervation techniques and neuromuscular rehabilitation, with experience in managing complex cases and established sequelae.

From the very first consultation, we take the time needed to explain the cause of the condition, the stages of recovery and the treatment options available at each stage of the condition’s progression. Every decision is based on rigorous clinical criteria and extensive experience in advanced reconstructive techniques.

Decision-making is a collaborative process, particularly when considering reinnervation procedures or staged surgical strategies. Coordination between surgery, rehabilitation and eye care enables us to offer a comprehensive and consistent approach throughout the entire process.

Specialist assessment of facial paralysis

In cases of acute facial paralysis or persistent after-effects, the Unit carries out a specialist assessment aimed at determining the most appropriate treatment strategy and promoting functional recovery.

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