Facial Nerve Disorders

Vanderbilt is consistently ranked among the nation’s best by leading authorities on health care quality. People from throughout the Southeast and across the country rely on us for the best and most innovative care possible. 

Our surgeons have extensive training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, which includes specialized expertise in treating facial nerve disorders. Our surgeons have experience performing a variety of surgeries, ranging from procedures to improve the function of your eyelids to more complex surgeries involving the removal or transfer of nerves within the face.

Vanderbilt is one of only a few medical centers in the country with surgeons capable of performing a delicate surgery called gracilis multivector surgery. Our surgeons are uniquely trained to perform this innovative facial nerve surgery to restore your smile.

We work together to ensure that you receive the comprehensive care you need. Our team members collaborate with each other, as well as with experts in other medical disciplines, to provide you with individual care that addresses your unique needs.

A second opinion can help you make the best health decisions. We review your medical history, diagnostic tests, any previous treatments and your personal preferences to give you an informed opinion.

We are the only program in Tennessee to offer a unique therapy for facial synkinesis. Facial synkinesis occurs when your nerve fibers regrow or connect to other nerves after a facial nerve injury or trauma. When synkinesis occurs, the muscle groups controlled by those nerves don’t synchronize correctly. It causes involuntary movements when you move another group of facial muscles. We offer our patients the chance to receive electromyography (EMG)-guided treatment, which includes the use of botulinum toxin, every three months.