Facial paralysis occurs when a child cannot move some or all the muscles in the face. The paralysis often affects only one side of the face, but it can affect both sides. Your child may need an eye exam to look at the cornea and see if they are experiencing dry eye. For facial paralysis after trauma or surgery, doctors may wait to see if the paralysis gets better on its own. The doctor might order an electromyogram EMG.

Facial nerve palsy in the neonatal period can be result of few reasons including congenital, trauma at the time of birth, or developmental. The most important step in management is eye care as these infants have incomplete eye closure. If the weakness persistent beyond 3 months than plastic surgeon should be brought in picture. Congenital unilateral facial paralysis. Pediatrics ; Electrodiagnostic studies of the facial nerve in peripheral facial palsy and hemifacial spasm. Muscle Nerve ;

Try out PMC Labs and tell us what you think. Learn More. Although being idiopathic by definition, possible infectious, inflammatory, and ischemic triggers have been suggested.

Learn more. The seventh cranial nerve governs the sensation and movement of all the muscles in the face. Facial paralysis in a child is rare, and can be congenital present at birth or acquired. For facial paralysis that does not get better, it is important to see a specialist promptly for the best chance of a good outcome.