Facial Palsy

Facial nerve palsies (FNP) are common and can present either to the ENT surgeon, the ophthalmologist or indeed in general medical practice. The facial nerve is a fundamental structure both for communication and emotion, and as such, functional impairment can lead to a significant reduction in quality of life. Facial palsy encompasses both paralysis and paresis of the facial nerve and are essentially two separate entities. In facial nerve paralysis there is total loss of nerve function which contrasts paresis which is a partial loss of nerve function, or incomplete recovery. The scope of this chapter is to consolidate established techniques as well as explore novel management strategies including facial physiotherapy.