Your facial retraining journey awaits...
Preparing for Facial Retraining
Welcome to Face First! It is important to establish that facial dysfunction is not merely a cosmetic issue, it is a communication issue. Our faces provide communication about our thoughts, intentions, understanding and the very message we are trying to convey to others. Facial nerve injury can cause facial dysfunction, whether from Bell's Palsy, Acoustic Neuroma, Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome or trauma. The nerve goes through different phases of healing which will be further addressed during your session. Face First offers a very specific approach known as Facial Neuromuscular Retraining (FNMR) to address facial nerve dysfunction.
Early intervention is key soon after onset:
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Protect the healing nerve; avoid potentially harmful intervention, i.e. electrical stimulation, needling.
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Eye Care to prevent/address dryness
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Restoring Coordinated Movements At The Right Time
A poignant time to begin addressing movement dysfunction is when synkinesis emerges. Synkinesis may be noted especially when movement in the affected side starts to return, and yet some other facial muscles move at the same time even when you don't want them to do so. It is somewhat like a cross-wiring or over-healing of the nerve. One example of common synkinesis includes the eye closing when smiling. Prior to the onset of synkinesis, eye care and education are crucial. Want to learn more? Take a listen to Dr. Donaldson's podcast on I Love Neuro ===>>>
Real Patient, Right Bell's Palsy, Onset to Facial Retraining Journey
Before Bell's Palsy
R Bell's Palsy 72 Hours
R Bell's Palsy 72 Hours
14 Months s/p BP, 9 Months Retraining Journey
What to Expect:
The first appointment takes about two hours. You will be able to express your concerns and goals for facial retraining. A full evaluation will be performed which includes a comprehensive Video Exam and Still Photo Exam of Muscle Movements, as well as a Soft Tissue Exam. Exercises specific to your needs will be prescribed in a customized program. The exercises will be implemented and your response observed to provide for the best retraining approach. You will need to do the exercises daily on a consistent basis for progress. Appointments are set based on individual needs, usually at a rate of one visit per month.
Telehealth appointments are being provided for Neuromuscular Facial Retraining currently for patients physically residing in Arizona, Hawaii, Colorado, and California. Arrangements may be made for patients traveling into Arizona from out of state. In-person appointments are being provided for patients typically at the 2nd visit and are preferred for patients who are recently post-surgery and in need of wound inspection, scar management, and upper quarter (neck/shoulder.) assessment.