The birth of a child is supposed to be a joyful and safe experience, but when medical professionals apply excessive force or fail to follow proper delivery procedures, newborns can suffer serious injuries. One of the most distressing birth injuries is facial nerve damage, which can lead to paralysis, difficulty feeding, and long-term developmental concerns.
At Fertility Law Group, we understand how overwhelming it is for parents to learn that their child has suffered an injury that could affect their ability to smile, eat, or express emotions. The uncertainty about whether the condition will improve, what treatment options exist, and whether the injury was preventable can be daunting. We are here to provide both legal and emotional support, helping families navigate this difficult journey and ensure their child receives the best possible care.
Facial nerve damage, also known as facial palsy or Bell’s palsy in newborns, occurs when the seventh cranial nerve is injured during birth. This nerve controls the muscles responsible for facial expressions, and when damaged, it can lead to weakness or complete paralysis on one side of the face.
Signs of Facial Nerve Damage in a Newborn
The severity of facial nerve damage depends on whether the nerve was bruised, stretched, or completely torn. Some cases resolve on their own, while others require medical intervention.
Facial nerve injuries are often the result of excessive pressure applied to the baby’s head and face during delivery. This can occur naturally, especially in cases of prolonged labor or breech positioning, but many cases are preventable with proper medical care.
Common Causes of Facial Nerve Damage at Birth
If you have questions about your rights or your options, please contact us for a free consultation. There is no obligation and we keep all inquiries strictly confidential.
Some newborns with mild facial nerve injuries recover within a few weeks as swelling and bruising subside. However, more severe cases can lead to permanent paralysis or long-term difficulties with facial function.
Treatment Options for Facial Nerve Damage
Facial paralysis is not just a physical injury—it can have a profound emotional and psychological impact on a child as they grow. A child’s ability to smile, express emotions, and interact socially is deeply tied to their facial muscles. If nerve damage is permanent, children may face challenges with self-esteem, speech development, and social interactions.
As parents, the uncertainty of how your child’s condition will develop can feel overwhelming. At Fertility Law Group, we know that every child deserves the best possible care, and we are committed to ensuring that families have the resources they need to support their child’s well-being.
If your child suffered facial nerve damage due to improper medical care during delivery, you have the right to seek answers. Our legal team works with medical experts to determine whether the injury could have been prevented and what steps should have been taken to protect your child.
Pursuing a claim is not just about compensation—it’s about ensuring your child has access to medical care, therapy, and any future treatments they may need. It’s also about holding wrongdoers accountable, and encouraging safer medical practices so that other families don’t experience the same hardship.
If medical negligence played a role in your child’s injury, a legal claim can help provide for:
At Fertility Law Group, our birth injury lawyers are deeply committed to helping families navigate these complex cases. We know how difficult this process can be, and we are here to provide guidance, support, and advocacy every step of the way.
No parent should have to go through this alone. If your child has suffered a birth injury, we are here to help you understand your options and fight for the care they deserve. If you have questions about your child’s injury, we encourage you to contact us. We offer free consultations to help families understand their rights and determine the best path forward.
