The Facial Paralysis Institute

The Facial Paralysis Institute The premier center for facial nerve disorders including facial paralysis and bell's palsy. Feel free to ask a question or call anytime, we will be glad to help.

The Facial Paralysis Institute is the premier center for facial nerve disorders including facial paralysis, bell's palsy, hemifacial spasm, acoustic neuroma and parotid tumors. The Institute is comprised of world-renowned experts from various specialties that are singularly focused on facial nerve disorders - including facial plastic surgeons, neuro-otologists, physical therapists, head and neck s

urgeons, radiologists, neurosurgeons and psychologists. Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, the Director of The Facial Paralysis Institute, is a Reconstructive Surgeon who is deeply committed to the treatment of individuals with facial paralysis and Bells palsy. Facial paralysis and Bell's Palsy are devastating disorders that can significantly impact an individuals quality of life and appearance. This is the reason that we believe a multi-specialty approach is required to address your needs with physicians and therapists who have extensive experience in facial nerve disorders. The Institute has some of the highest success rates in the nation for the treatment of Bells Palsy and facial paralysis. Highly respected by peers and patients alike, The Facial Paralysis Institute is the premier facility in the nation for the treatment of facial paralysis.

1-Year Follow-UpThis inspiring 44-year-old woman has lived with Bell’s palsy since the age of 6. After developing signif...
08/12/2025

1-Year Follow-Up

This inspiring 44-year-old woman has lived with Bell’s palsy since the age of 6. After developing significant synkinesis, she previously underwent selective neurolysis to reduce unwanted muscle activity.
To further enhance her smile symmetry and lift the corner of her mouth, we performed an in-office facial reanimation procedure—no general anesthesia needed.

Now, one year later, she’s enjoying a more balanced, expressive, and confident smile with improved movement and natural results.

It’s a privilege to be part of journeys like hers.


9 months post-opThis 58-year-old woman with long-standing Bell’s palsy and synkinesis came to us hoping to improve her s...
08/05/2025

9 months post-op
This 58-year-old woman with long-standing Bell’s palsy and synkinesis came to us hoping to improve her smile and facial symmetry. We performed facial reanimation to restore dynamic movement, released neck tightness (note the platysma), and addressed facial aging with a deep plane face and neck lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, and fat grafting. She’s made incredible progress—and we anticipate even more improvement over the coming year.

Every year, thousands of babies are born with cleft lips, cleft palates, or craniofacial differences that can affect the...
07/22/2025

Every year, thousands of babies are born with cleft lips, cleft palates, or craniofacial differences that can affect their ability to eat, speak, hear, and thrive. These conditions are more common than most people realize—and early, expert care can make all the difference.

We’re honored to work with children and adults born with facial differences, offering world-class surgical care, long-term support, and a commitment to restoring both function and confidence.

Raising awareness helps break stigma, drives research, and ensures more families get the support they need—when they need it most.

Let’s stand together this month to celebrate strength, resilience, and the beauty of every face.

📞 (310) 657-2203
🌐 www.facialplasticsbh.com



07/21/2025

When it comes to treating synkinesis, exploring new and innovative approaches is key to finding the right path to recovery. From targeted therapies to neuroplasticity techniques, understanding the latest treatment options can help you regain control and improve facial function.Stay informed and make sure to consult with your medical team to determine the best approach for your unique condition. Each case is different, and personalized care is essential for optimal results.📞 (310) 657-2203🖥️ www.facialplasticsbh.com

07/16/2025

When it comes to facial paralysis treatments, confusion around terminology can lead to misunderstandings. Whether it's nerve repair, muscle transfer, or botulinum toxin therapy, it's crucial to get clarity on what each option means for you. Understanding the difference can help set realistic expectations and guide you toward the most effective treatment for your unique situation.Before starting any treatment, have an open conversation with your surgeon. Ask questions about the terms you don’t understand and make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to goals and results. A thorough discussion and a clear treatment plan are key to the best outcome.📞 (310) 657-2203🖥️ www.facialplasticsbh.com

This is our patient nine years after undergoing selective neurolysis surgery for long-standing facial paralysis caused b...
07/09/2025

This is our patient nine years after undergoing selective neurolysis surgery for long-standing facial paralysis caused by Bell’s palsy. At the time of her procedure, she was struggling with significant asymmetry, muscle tightness, and an inability to smile naturally—challenges that deeply affected her confidence and daily life.

Under the expert care of Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, the selective neurolysis surgery was performed to restore balance and improve facial movement by targeting overactive and misdirected nerve branches, allowing the smile mechanism to work more naturally.

Now, nine years later, her transformation is remarkable. Her facial symmetry, smile dynamics, and confidence have all dramatically improved. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with advanced facial reanimation techniques and personalized care.

We’re honored to have been a part of her story and look forward to continuing to support patients seeking life-changing outcomes like hers.

📞 (310) 657-2203
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com

06/20/2025

This is our patient on post-op day 4, following surgery to remove a left parotid tumor that caused complete facial paralysis. Just last year, he began noticing subtle facial asymmetry that quickly progressed to full paralysis.

A needle biopsy had raised concern for adenoid cystic carcinoma, which was confirmed to be affecting the facial nerve as it courses through the parotid gland. Given the tumor’s location and impact on nerve function, surgery required expert coordination between Dr. Babak Azizzadeh and Dr. Babak Larian to both remove the cancer and begin the process of facial reanimation.

Now just four days after surgery, we’re already seeing early signs of healing. Though swelling and temporary asymmetry are expected in this phase, his recovery is off to a strong start.

We’re honored to support him through each stage of this journey and will continue to monitor his facial recovery over the coming weeks and months.

Stay tuned for more updates on his progress.

📞(310) 657-2203
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com

06/18/2025

This is the pre-op video of our patient who first began noticing subtle facial asymmetry in 2023. By 2024, he had developed complete facial paralysis.

A needle biopsy raised concern for adenoid cystic carcinoma, and he was ultimately diagnosed with left parotid cancer. Because the facial nerve runs directly through the parotid gland, tumors in this area can lead to facial weakness or complete paralysis.

He will soon undergo surgery with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh and Dr. Babak Larian to remove the tumor and begin his journey toward facial recovery. The goal of surgery is not only to remove the tumor but also to restore facial symmetry—particularly in the forehead and smile.

Disclaimer: We previously shared his post-op video and mistakenly labeled it as pre-op. This video is, in fact, his actual pre-op footage.

We’re honored to be part of his care and will be closely following his progress.

Stay tuned for his follow-up results.

📞(310) 657-2203
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com

After experiencing Bell’s palsy 4 times since age 16, this patient developed left-sided facial paralysis and synkinesis....
04/25/2025

After experiencing Bell’s palsy 4 times since age 16, this patient developed left-sided facial paralysis and synkinesis. She underwent facial reanimation surgery to restore her smile symmetry and ease tightness around the eye. This is her 1 year and 4 month post-op transformation. We are so happy to have been part of her journey and to help her regain confidence in her smile!

📞 (310) 657-2203 
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com 

Moments like these make it all worth it. ❤️ On our recent  mission to Ecuador, Dr. Azizzadeh was reunited with one of hi...
04/03/2025

Moments like these make it all worth it. ❤️ On our recent mission to Ecuador, Dr. Azizzadeh was reunited with one of his long-term patients—now thriving, smiling, and filled with gratitude. The gift he received wasn’t just a present; it was a reminder of the deep connections formed through years of care, trust, and transformation.

To our patients, their families, and the incredible team that makes these missions possible—thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. Every smile tells a story, and we are honored to help write them.

From Facial Paralysis to a Confident Smile—Her Incredible Transformation! Facial paralysis is the loss of voluntary faci...
03/19/2025

From Facial Paralysis to a Confident Smile—Her Incredible Transformation! Facial paralysis is the loss of voluntary facial movement due to nerve damage, which can be caused by Bell’s palsy, tumors, or surgical injury—just like in this patient’s case. In 2015, she underwent a parotidectomy for chronic parotitis and developed right-sided facial paralysis and synkinesis as a result. What is Synkinesis? When facial nerves regrow in a disorganized manner, it can lead to involuntary facial movements and muscle overactivity—making simple expressions feel unnatural and uncoordinated. Because the facial nerve runs through the parotid gland, paralysis is always a potential risk of parotid surgery. That’s why having an expert surgeon who understands the facial nerve’s delicate anatomy is crucial for preserving function. Fast forward to today—she’s just three months post-op after facial reanimation surgery, and her transformation is incredible! After years of struggling with facial imbalance and synkinesis, she has regained natural movement and confidence in her smile. Seeing her reclaim her expression is what this work is all about. We’re beyond thrilled with her progress and honored to be part of her journey! Want to learn more about parotid surgery and facial reanimation? Follow .

📞 (310) 657-2203
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com

Two and a half years after his second-stage customized facial reanimation surgery by , this incredible patient continues...
03/10/2025

Two and a half years after his second-stage customized facial reanimation surgery by , this incredible patient continues to inspire us with his resilience.

He was first diagnosed with a benign brain tumor, which, despite treatment, recurred. After undergoing another surgery to remove the tumor, he developed right-sided facial paralysis—impacting both his ability to smile and his overall facial function.

Through advanced facial reanimation surgery, we were able to help restore movement, function, and confidence. His progress is a testament to the power of perseverance and cutting-edge medical care.

Seeing his transformation reminds us why we do what we do. We’re honored to have been part of his journey!

📞 (310) 657-2203
🖥️ www.facialparalysisinstitute.com

Address

Beverly Hills, CA

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Facial Paralysis Institute posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Share

Category