There are 12 cranial nerves that impact the face and senses, including the 7th facial nerve. When facial paralysis occurs, one or more of the cranial nerves may be affected and no longer work correctly. For those with facial paralysis caused by a non-functional cranial nerve, there are options to restore facial animation. One surgical option is a cranial nerve transfer for facial reanimation, available through Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD, in NYC.
Dr. Rosenberg is a dual board facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in facial paralysis treatment. He was one of the founding members of Mount Sinai’s Facial Nerve Paralysis Program and has spent years helping those with facial paralysis. He offers treatment options to restore normalcy to the facial appearance and movement, including complex surgical options like cranial nerve transfers.
What Is a Cranial Nerve Transfer?
To reanimate facial muscles, the non-functional nerve must be grafted to a working nerve. In a cranial nerve transfer, a nerve is harvested from another area and transferred to the facial nerve that is no longer functional. This is a very complex surgery, requiring extensive knowledge of the facial nerves and muscular anatomy, as well as surgical technique. Each case is unique, requiring specific methods to reanimate the affected muscles. In some cases, a muscle transfer is also required if the affected muscles have atrophied.
If you or a loved one have facial paralysis and want to explore surgical options like cranial or facial nerve transfers, contact the office of Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD, to schedule a consultation. Dr. Rosenberg is one of the leading experts in treating facial paralysis. He offers treatment options to help improve the function and appearance of the face, including complex surgeries like facial nerve transfers.