For more than 20 years, experts at the UPMC have diagnosed and treated thousands of people suffering from facial nerve disorders.
As part of the University of Pittsburgh Department of Otolaryngology, UPMC is one of the leading centers for diagnosis and management of facial paralysis in the world.
We provide answers and second opinions for patients who feel they’ve run out of options. We also teach other doctors about the evaluation and management of facial nerve disorders.
The most common facial nerve disorders we treat include:
Anyone with facial paralysis may benefit from facial nerve treatment, including those whose facial paralysis has resulted from:
The UPMC Facial Nerve Center, located within University Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists – Shadyside in Pittsburgh, Pa., offers both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options for facial nerve disorders. Treatment begins after your care team discusses your diagnosis, treatment risks, benefits, and options with you.
Because facial paralysis conditions are unique to each patient, we consider your individual case when developing a treatment plan.
Some of the more common treatments for facial nerve disorders and paralysis include:
Common surgical options include:
We also may use a combination of treatments for the best possible results.
To decide on the best treatment, your doctor will not only consider the cause of your paralysis, but also your:
Your doctor will discuss with you the possible range of facial movement that can be expected to return with each treatment option. The entire team is here to answer your questions and help you decide which treatment is best for you.
To provide the most holistic possible care, we may work with other UPMC specialists, such as:
Every person’s facial appearance is a very personal and emotional subject. If you’re considering facial nerve surgery, make an appointment for a free consultation with a UPMC facial nerve surgeon. It's often helpful to bring a family member to your first consultation.
The UPMC team is dedicated to furthering research and education on facial paralysis. Many patients participate in our ongoing research and clinical trials to help further the field of facial nerve conditions, treatments, and procedures.
You may be asked to participate in our research. You have the right to accept or decline the offer, and your decision will not affect your care at UPMC.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2026-04-29.
