Facial Nerve Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment at Alpha Surgical Group

 

Facial nerve cancer is a rare but serious condition that can affect the nerves responsible for facial movement and expression. The facial nerve helps us smile, blink, and make different expressions. When a tumor grows on or around this nerve, it can cause weakness, pain, or paralysis on one side of the face.

At Alpha Surgical Group, located at 9735 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA, our expert surgeons provide advanced and compassionate care for people facing facial nerve cancer.

What is Facial Nerve Cancer?

Facial nerve cancer happens when abnormal cells grow in or around the facial nerve, often inside the parotid gland (a major salivary gland near the ear). Sometimes, these cancers start as parotid gland tumors and spread to the facial nerve.

Common types of tumors that can affect this area include:

  • Adenoid cystic carcinoma
  • Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
  • Acinic cell carcinoma

These cancers can press on or invade the facial nerve, leading to noticeable changes in facial movement or sensation.

What Are the Early Symptoms of Facial Nerve Cancer?

Recognizing the early signs of facial nerve cancer is very important for successful treatment. You should see a doctor if you notice:

  • Weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
  • Sudden or slow facial drooping
  • Pain near the ear or jaw
  • Loss of taste on one side of the tongue
  • A lump or swelling near the ear or cheek
  • Numbness or tingling in the face

Even mild facial weakness that doesn’t improve should be checked right away. At Alpha Surgical Group, our specialists perform detailed tests to find the exact cause of these symptoms.

 

How Is Facial Nerve Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of facial nerve cancer requires a careful medical and imaging evaluation. Doctors may use:

  • MRI or CT scans to see the tumor and how it affects the nerve
  • Ultrasound-guided biopsy to confirm if the tumor is cancerous
  • Facial nerve function tests to measure nerve activity

These tests help our surgeons at Alpha Surgical Group plan the safest and most effective treatment.

What Are the Best Treatments for Facial Nerve Cancer?

The main treatment for facial nerve cancer is surgery. The goal is to remove the tumor while preserving as much facial nerve function as possible.

At Alpha Surgical Group, our team of skilled head and neck surgeons use advanced techniques such as:

  • Microsurgical tumor removal for precise and safe surgery
  • Facial nerve grafting or nerve reconstruction when part of the nerve must be removed
  • Radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells
  • Rehabilitation therapy to help restore facial movement

Our personalized facial nerve cancer treatment plan focuses on both removing the cancer and helping you maintain natural facial expressions.

Can Facial Nerve Function Be Restored After Surgery?

In some cases, patients may experience weakness or loss of facial movement after surgery. However, modern facial nerve repair and reconstruction methods can greatly improve recovery.

At Alpha Surgical Group, we use advanced nerve grafts and facial reanimation surgery to restore natural motion and improve appearance. Physical therapy and facial exercises also help speed up recovery.

How Can Facial Nerve Cancer Be Prevented or Detected Early?

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent facial nerve cancer, regular check-ups can help detect any unusual growths early. If you notice persistent facial weakness, ear pain, or swelling, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Early detection often means easier treatment and better results.

Why Choose Alpha Surgical Group for Facial Nerve Cancer Treatment?

Alpha Surgical Group in Beverly Hills, California, is known for excellence in facial nerve surgery and head and neck cancer treatment. Our doctors use the latest technology and surgical methods to provide safe and effective care.

We combine medical expertise with personalized support, helping each patient through every step — from diagnosis to full recovery.

Facial nerve cancer is rare but serious. With early diagnosis and expert treatment, most patients can achieve good results. If you or a loved one has symptoms like facial weakness or persistent ear pain, contact Alpha Surgical Group, located at 9735 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA.

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