Reconnect with Yourself
Changes that affect the appearance of your face have a dramatic impact on daily life. “Our face is how we communicate. It’s our sense of identity. You quickly realize the impact of changes when you can’t do things like smile, or eat normally,” says Dr. Jacob Dey, a Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Dey is one of very few surgeons with expertise in both treatment of facial paralysis (facial reanimation) and aesthetic surgery. His complementary skill sets enable him to deliver life-changing results for people whose faces have changed due to facial paralysis or aging. “We’re able to help people look and feel more like themselves so they can get back to doing the things they love,” adds Dr. Dey.
Find New Hope After Facial Paralysis
There are several causes of facial paralysis, including Bell’s palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, parotid or skull-base tumors, stroke, and more. Each of these conditions impact the facial nerve’s ability to function normally, and many people are told little, or nothing can be done. However, Dr. Dey and his team are often able to help. “There’s almost always something we can do to improve the symmetry and function of their face,” says Dr. Dey.
Explore Innovative Facial Reanimation Options
Many of the latest advancements in facial reanimation involve microsurgeries that use precise, minimally invasive incisions. The surgeries help relax muscles or rewire nerves that aren’t functioning properly. Transplanting small pieces of muscle from one area of the body to the face is another technique Dr. Dey and his team are advancing. “I had a patient who had a muscle transplant surgery to reconstruct the muscles of her face. Now she can smile again, and that’s life changing,” says Dr. Dey.
Experience Complete Care at the Parotid Tumor Care Clinic
People with parotid gland tumors often need experts in cancer care and facial reanimation surgery. Mayo Clinic’s new multidisciplinary complex parotid tumor facial nerve clinic is designed to provide the convenience of world-class cancer care and facial reconstruction all in one place.
Choose your Own Care Path
Dr. Dey and his team develop strong relationships with patients over time,
so people feel empowered to make their own care decisions. “We educate people on the pros and cons of every option so they can make choices that achieve their long-term goals,” explains Dr. Dey.
“I spend a lot of time helping people understand the results that each option is likely to deliver. I want people to know there’s a strong possibility we can make significant improvements. For most of my patients that’s very rewarding news, and they leave my office after their initial consultation feeling a renewed sense of hope,” says Dr. Dey.
“Understanding how profoundly this work impacts people’s lives motivates me
every day.” — Dr. Jacob Dey
To learn more visit: mayoclinic.com/visitorguide, or call 507-923-2566.
