- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: May 7, 2025
Facial palsy is a distressing condition that affects both appearance and essential functions, such as blinking, eye closure, and speech. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, with leading eye clinics in London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield, our team of highly skilled specialists offers advanced diagnosis, tailored treatment, and innovative surgical solutions-including gold weight eyelid surgery-to restore comfort, function, and confidence.
What is Facial Palsy?
Facial palsy is the weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face due to damage or dysfunction of the facial nerve. This nerve controls facial expression, eyelid movement, and tear production. When disrupted, it can cause the face to droop, the mouth to sag, and the eye to remain open or unable to blink, leaving the eye at risk of dryness and injury.
Causes of Facial Palsy
Understanding the causes of facial palsy is key to effective treatment. The most common causes include:
- Bell’s Palsy: The most frequent cause, often linked to viral infections, resulting in sudden, temporary facial weakness.
- Stroke: A major cause of facial weakness, but with distinct features-see facial palsy vs stroke below.
- Trauma: Injury to the facial nerve due to accidents, surgery, or tumours.
- Infections: Such as Lyme disease or ear infections.
- Neurological Disorders: Including multiple sclerosis or tumours pressing on the facial nerve.
- Congenital Conditions: Some individuals are born with facial nerve weakness.
Facial Palsy vs Stroke: Why the Difference Matters
It is vital to distinguish facial palsy from stroke, as the management and urgency differ:
- Facial Palsy: Typically affects only the muscles of facial expression on one side. The forehead may also be involved, and there are usually no other neurological symptoms.
- Stroke: May cause facial weakness but is often accompanied by limb weakness, speech difficulties, or other neurological deficits. In stroke, the forehead is often spared due to the way the brain’s nerve pathways are organised.
If you experience sudden facial weakness, especially with other symptoms like arm or leg weakness or speech changes, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Facial Palsy Symptoms
Recognising facial palsy symptoms early is essential for timely intervention. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
- Drooping of the mouth or eyelid
- Inability to close the eye fully, leading to dryness or irritation
- Loss of facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning
- Difficulty with speech, eating, or drinking
- Tearing or drooling
The inability to blink or close the eye properly is particularly concerning, as it exposes the eye to dryness, ulceration, and risk of infection.
Protecting the Eye: The Role of Eyelid Gold Weights
One of the most significant risks in facial palsy is damage to the eye due to incomplete eyelid closure. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we offer a highly effective solution-eyelid gold weights.
What Are Eyelid Gold Weights?
Eyelid gold weights are tiny, biocompatible gold implants surgically placed into the upper eyelid. The additional weight helps the eyelid close naturally with gravity when the patient tries to blink or sleep, protecting the eye from exposure and dryness.
Benefits of Gold Weight Eyelid Surgery
- Restores the ability to blink and close the eye fully
- Reduces the risk of corneal ulcers and vision loss
- Minimally visible and well-tolerated
- Can be adjusted or removed if necessary
This procedure is a form of upper eyelid surgery specifically designed for patients with facial palsy. Our oculoplastic surgeons at Blue Fin Vision® are highly experienced in gold weight eyelid surgery, ensuring optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Treatment Options for Facial Palsy
Management of facial palsy is highly individualised and may include:
- Medical Therapy: Steroids and antiviral medications in the early stages, especially for Bell’s palsy.
- Eye Care: Lubricating eye drops, ointments, and protective eye shields to prevent dryness and injury.
- Gold Weight Eyelid Surgery: Surgical insertion of eyelid gold weights to restore eyelid closure and protect the eye.
- Other Surgical Procedures: In some cases, additional upper eyelid surgery or lower eyelid tightening may be required for optimal protection and appearance.
- Facial Palsy Exercises: Specialised physiotherapy and facial exercises can help maintain muscle tone, improve symmetry, and enhance recovery. These exercises are tailored to each patient’s needs and may include:
- Gentle massage of the facial muscles
- Practising exaggerated facial expressions
- Blinking and eye closure exercises
Our multidisciplinary approach ensures each patient receives a comprehensive treatment plan.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic for Facial Palsy and Gold Weight Eyelid Surgery?
- Specialist Expertise: Our consultant ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons have extensive experience in managing facial palsy and performing gold weight eyelid surgery.
- Personalised Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, from initial diagnosis through to rehabilitation and follow-up.
- Advanced Techniques: We use the latest surgical and non-surgical methods to optimise both function and appearance.
- Compassionate Support: Our team understands the emotional and practical challenges of facial palsy and offers ongoing support throughout your journey.
- Convenient Locations: Access world-class care at our eye clinics in London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield.
Restore Comfort, Safety, and Confidence
If you or a loved one is living with facial palsy, timely intervention is essential to protect your vision and restore quality of life. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we are committed to delivering the highest standard of care, from expert diagnosis to advanced gold weight eyelid surgery and ongoing support.
Book your consultation today at our London, Chelmsford, or Hatfield clinics. Trust your vision and well-being to Blue Fin Vision®-where expertise meets compassionate care.
