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        What is Synkinesis?

        Synkinesis can occur after experiencing facial paralysis, Bell’s Palsy, or facial nerve injury. As the facial nerve regrows, the nerves can rewire improperly, causing unwanted movements and uncoordinated facial expressions. For example, smiling might unintentionally cause your eye to close, or you may experience facial spasms or tightness. This imbalance—which Dr. Joseph Dayan describes as a "partly paralyzed, partly hyperfunctioning face"—can leave you feeling frustrated and self-conscious.

        The likelihood of developing synkinesis after nerve surgery varies, but it is more common in cases where nerve damage is severe or recovery is delayed. Conditions such as Bell’s Palsy significantly increase the risk, with up to 30% of adults with this condition experiencing synkinesis.

        Symptoms

        While the symptoms and severity vary, patients often report:

        • Overactive eye closure
        • Weak or absent smile
        • Facial spasms
        • Paralysis in some parts of the face
        • Tightness or hyperactivity in certain areas of the face
        • Uncoordinated, unwanted facial movements

        These symptoms typically arise weeks to months after surgery or nerve injury as the healing process begins. If you experience these symptoms, particularly if they worsen or interfere with daily activities, it is essential to consult a specialist promptly to explore effective treatment options.

        Risk Factors

        Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing synkinesis. Recognizing these risk factors can help patients seek timely care and potentially reduce complications. Common risk factors include:

        • Bell’s Palsy: The most frequent precursor to synkinesis, often due to nerve miswiring during recovery.
        • Acoustic neuroma: treatment after this condition can cause nerve damage and facial paralysis. 
        • Facial nerve injury or trauma: Damage from accidents or medical procedures affecting the facial nerve.
        • Facial surgery: Surgeries near or involving the facial nerve can sometimes lead to improper nerve healing.

        Diagnosing Synkinesis

        At The Institute, diagnosing synkinesis typically begins with a thorough evaluation by one of our doctors. Advanced diagnostic tools, such as electromyography (EMG), may be used to analyze the electrical activity in your facial muscles, helping to pinpoint areas of nerve miswiring. High-resolution imaging studies, such as MRI, can also aid in identifying the underlying cause of the nerve damage. This comprehensive approach helps us understand the extent of damage so your doctor can develop a personalized treatment plan.

        Treatment Options

        At The Institute, we offer groundbreaking surgical solutions to address synkinesis, empowering patients to regain both function and confidence. Receiving care early on often results in better outcomes, so we encourage individuals to seek treatment as soon as symptoms arise.

        Highly Selective Neurectomy

        This procedure precisely targets and eliminates specific nerve branches causing hyperactive movements to reduce unwanted movements in areas of the face, such as the eyes and lips.

        Nerve to Masseter Transfer

        Uses the nerve that helps clench your teeth to restore your smile or eye closure abilities.  

        Mini Hypoglossal Transfer

        This technique "hitchhikes" on the hypoglossal nerve, which powers the tongue, to restore motion to other parts of the face without affecting tongue function. 

        Dual Nerve Transfers (Dual Babysitter Approach)

        This technique uses both nerve-to-masseter and mini hypoglossal techniques to restore precise facial motion. Dr. Dayan was the first to describe this targeted approach for the restoration of facial motion.

        Cross-Face Nerve Graft

        This technique connects healthy facial nerves that control smiling, eye closure, and lower lip motion to the paralyzed side to restore spontaneous natural facial motion. 

        Free Gracilis Muscle Transfer

        In cases of long-standing facial paralysis, we transfer a small portion of thigh muscle to the face to restore a natural smile.

        Facelift & Refinements

        We can incorporate cosmetic procedures, such as a facelift, to address aesthetic and functional concerns. Many patients with facial weakness also experience significant facial drooping, so these procedures enhance both functionality and appearance, often resulting in an immediate improvement in appearance post-surgery.

        Additional Enhancements

        • Fat Grafting to Lips: Provides a permanent and natural solution to address lip volume loss due to muscle atrophy. 
        • Delicate Eyelid Surgery: Platinum eyelid weights can help correct sagging lower lids or hooded upper eyelids 
        • Botox:  Finetunes unwanted facial motion, restoring symmetry and balance. 

        Our Doctors

        The physicians at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction are recognized leaders in nerve reconstruction and plastic reconstructive surgery, with unparalleled expertise in treating synkinesis, facial paralysis, and facial reconstruction. By blending cutting-edge techniques with compassionate, patient-centered care, we deliver transformative results that restore both function and confidence. 
        Joseph Dayan
        Physician

        Joseph Dayan

        MD, MBA
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        Chris Lakhiani
        Physician

        Chris Lakhiani

        MD, FACS
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        Find Treatment for Synkinesis Near Me

        Neptune City
        Neptune City
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        19 Davis Avenue
        7th Floor
        Neptune City, NJ 07753
         
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        Phone:732-353-1973
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        Red Bank
        Red Bank
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        331 Newman Springs Rd. 
        Building 2 - First Floor, STE 200
        Red Bank, NJ 07701
         
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        Phone:855-980-6981
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        Westwood
        Westwood
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        260 Old Hook Rd
        Suite 304
        Westwood, NJ 07675
         
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        Phone:855-980-6981
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        Patient Resources

        Learn more about surgical procedures and treatments at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction by visiting our patient resource page. 

        Resources

        Your Path to Recovery Begins Here.

        If synkinesis is affecting your quality of life, you don’t have to face it alone. The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is here to guide you through every step of your treatment journey. Schedule a consultation and learn more about our innovative treatment options. 
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