Amer Center for Facial Paralysis
Dr. Tarek Amer, Professor of Plastic and Microsurgery at the Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, is a pioneering figure in the treatment of facial nerve paralysis in the Middle East. Since the year 2000, he has dedicated his career to this highly specialized field.
Dr. Tarek Amer: A Middle Eastern Pioneer in Facial Nerve Paralysis Treatment
As a professor of plastic and microsurgery at Kasr Al-Ainy Medical School, Cairo University, Dr. Tarek Amer is one of the leading surgeons in seventh nerve procedures and microsurgical interventions since 2000.
Facial Nerve Paralysis: More Than a Muscle Problem
Facial nerve paralysis causes significant facial deformity, which deeply affects the patient psychologically and socially. It disrupts communication, leads to social withdrawal, and negatively impacts professional and personal progress.
Causes of Facial Paralysis
There are numerous causes of facial nerve paralysis, too many to cover in one article. Among the most common are brain tumors, nerve damage during tumor removal, and skull base fractures. The facial nerve can also be injured in facial trauma resulting in direct nerve severance, or during surgeries involving the parotid gland.
However, not all cases are due to direct injury from tumors or trauma. The facial nerve can also be affected by certain diseases or inflammatory conditions.
Bell’s Palsy: A Common Misunderstanding
Many mistakenly label all facial paralysis as Bell’s Palsy, but in reality, it’s a specific condition that arises without trauma, surgery, or direct nerve injury. It affects people of all ages and genders, is more frequent during pregnancy, and increases with exposure to cold air drafts or in patients with diabetes.
Facial Synkinesis
Facial synkinesis is a condition that may occur after facial nerve damage, often due to Bell’s Palsy. When the nerve begins to recover, the facial muscles might not function properly, leading to involuntary movements. For example, attempting to smile might cause the eye to close unintentionally.
New Hope with Every Step of Treatment
Despite the challenges of facial nerve paralysis and synkinesis, hope remains strong. With major advancements in microsurgery, physical therapy, and psychological support, many patients can regain significant facial function and greatly improve their quality of life.
At Dr. Tarek Amer’s Center, the condition is treated not just as a physical issue, but as a deeply human experience deserving of comprehensive care. From precise diagnosis to advanced surgical techniques and emotional support, every effort is made to help patients regain their confidence—and their smile.
Because every face tells a story… and every smile deserves to return.