Facial Nerve Palsy

Facial nerve palsy affects the muscles that control one side of the face, including those that close the eye and support the lower eyelid. When the eye cannot close properly, the surface of the eye — the cornea — is left exposed and vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and damage. The lower eyelid may also sag away from the eye, causing it to water excessively and feel uncomfortable.

The good news is that these problems can be reliably and effectively addressed with simple surgery.

Facial Palsy Procedures at a Glance

Procedures

Gold weight insertion and/or lower eyelid tightening (ectropion repair)

Setting

Day case — no overnight stay required

Anaesthetic

Local anaesthetic. You will be awake and comfortable throughout

Duration

Approximately 20–40 minutes per procedure

Purpose

To improve eye closure, protect the cornea, reduce watering, and improve appearance

Recovery

Swelling and bruising settles over 1–2 weeks

Return to work

Typically 1–2 weeks

Follow-up

Review appointment at 1–2 weeks for wound check and suture removal

Dr. Janice Brady

Consultant Oculoplastic Surgeon

MB BCh BAO BMedSc MSc MRCOphth FRCSI(Ophth)

Pricing

What surgery is being offered?

Two complementary procedures address the upper and lower eyelid respectively. They work in combination to fully protect the eye and restore a natural, comfortable appearance.

Upper Eyelid - Gold weight insertion

A small, precisely weighted implant is placed inside the upper eyelid. Gravity helps the lid close naturally when you blink and when you sleep, protecting the surface of the eye.

Benefits:

Improved eye closure
Corneal protection
Reduced dryness and irritation
Reversible — can be removed if nerve recovers

Lower Eyelid - Ectropion repair

The lower eyelid is tightened and repositioned so that it sits correctly against the eye again. This reduces the exposure of the eye surface.

Benefits:

Lower lid returned to correct position
Improved comfort and appearance
Better protection for the corneal surface
Surgery does not completely resolve a watery eye

Risks & side effects

Anti wrinkle injections are widely used and considered safe when delivered by trained professionals. Side effects are usually mild and temporary:

We always provide transparent advice on suitability before treatment.

After Before

DAY OF SURGERY

Some swelling and bruising around the eye is normal and expected. Your eye may be padded. Rest at home.

DAY 1-3

Bruising and swelling peaks then begins to settle. The eyelid may feel tight — this is normal. Use the ointment as directed. Cold compresses applied gently over the closed lid can help with swelling.

WEEK 1

Most patients are comfortable returning to light activity and desk-based work.

1-2 WEEKS

Review appointment with your consultant. Sutures are removed — this is quick and comfortable. The wound is checked and you will receive guidance on returning to driving and all normal activities.

4-8 WEEKS

Final results become apparent as swelling fully resolves and the scar matures.

After-care instructions

Apply your prescribed antibiotic ointment to the wound as directed — usually twice daily for one week
Keep the eye area clean and dry; avoid rubbing or touching the eye
You may shower normally but avoid directing water pressure onto the face
Cold compresses applied gently over the closed eye can help reduce swelling in the first few days
Continue your regular lubricating eye drops and any other eye medications as usual
Avoid swimming, saunas, and dusty or smoky environments for two weeks
Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for two weeks
Do not drive until the swelling has settled and your vision is comfortable — typically around two weeks, and confirmed at your post-operative review

Ready to Take the First Step?

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No rush, no pressure – just honest medical advice.

Aftercare & review

You’ll receive tailored aftercare guidance and be invited for a review appointment 2-3 weeks after your first session to ensure results are natural and you’re happy. We also encourage feedback and Google reviews from our patients.

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