Florida Bell’s Palsy Lawyers

The birth of a child is a momentous occasion, but when complications arise, it can quickly become a time of uncertainty and concern. One such complication, birth-related facial nerve damage, often leads to Bell’s Palsy in newborns, a condition marked by weakness or paralysis in one side of the face. Caused by trauma to the facial nerve during delivery, Bell’s Palsy can affect a child’s physical appearance and, in some cases, their ability to develop normal facial movements and expressions as they grow. Our Florida Bell’s Palsy lawyers are here to help.

At Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa, we understand how overwhelming this diagnosis can be. Our firm is dedicated to guiding families through the legal process, investigating the causes of their child’s injury, and fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. With extensive experience in birth injury cases, we provide compassionate and effective legal representation to help families move forward.

What is Bell’s Palsy in Newborns?

Bell’s Palsy in newborns is a type of facial paralysis caused by trauma to the seventh cranial nerve (facial nerve) during birth. This nerve controls facial muscle movement, and when damaged, it can lead to visible asymmetry in the baby’s facial expressions. Unlike adult cases of Bell’s Palsy, which may arise from various medical conditions, birth-related Bell’s Palsy is typically due to direct trauma during delivery.

Key characteristics of birth-related Bell’s Palsy include:

Asymmetrical Facial Appearance
Newborns with Bell’s Palsy often show a drooping or lack of movement on one side of their face, especially when they cry or attempt to make expressions.

Inability to Close One Eye Completely
The affected side may have difficulty fully closing, causing the eye to remain partially open even during sleep, which can lead to irritation.

Impaired Ability to Show Expressions
Infants with facial nerve damage may have reduced ability to smile, frown, or express themselves with facial movements on the affected side.

Flattened Nasolabial Fold
This crease, which extends from the nose to the corners of the mouth, may appear less pronounced on the impacted side, further contributing to asymmetry.

Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for parents and healthcare providers, as prompt diagnosis can allow for early interventions that may improve outcomes.

Causes of Birth-Related Facial Nerve Damage

The causes of facial nerve damage during birth vary, but many are preventable with proper medical care and attention. Common causes include:

Use of Forceps or Vacuum-Assisted Delivery
These tools are sometimes employed to aid in difficult deliveries, but improper use can exert too much pressure on a newborn’s face, damaging sensitive nerves. Skilled use of these tools is critical, as incorrect application or excessive force can easily cause trauma.

Prolonged Pressure During Labor
When labor is extended, especially if the baby’s head remains in the birth canal for long periods, it increases the risk of nerve compression. Excessive pressure on the infant’s face during these times can lead to nerve damage.

Improper Positioning During Birth
Certain positions during delivery can create excessive stress on the baby’s face or neck. Medical professionals must monitor positioning closely to prevent nerve injuries related to compressive forces on the facial area.

Oversized Infant or Large Birth Weight (Macrosomia)
Larger babies are more likely to experience difficult births, with greater chances of nerve-related injuries due to the increased pressure needed to deliver them safely.

Failure to Perform a Necessary C-Section
In situations where a vaginal delivery poses significant risks, a C-section may be recommended. Delays or failures to perform a C-section when medically indicated can expose the baby to unnecessary trauma, leading to potential nerve injuries.

The Florida Bell’s Palsy lawyers at Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa carefully investigate each case to identify preventable causes. Our goal is to uncover any instances of negligence and advocate for compensation to help families cover medical and therapeutic expenses.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Facial Nerve Damage in Newborns

Early detection of Bell’s Palsy symptoms is crucial to addressing the condition promptly. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following symptoms:

Visible Facial Asymmetry
The infant may show drooping on one side of the face, most noticeable when crying or trying to make expressions.

Inability to Close One Eye or Blink Fully
Babies with facial nerve damage may struggle to close one eye completely, leading to potential dryness and discomfort.

Flattening of Facial Features
|The crease (nasolabial fold) from the nose to the mouth may appear less defined on one side, adding to the asymmetrical appearance.

Drooping Mouth or Lower Lip
The mouth may droop on one side, and this asymmetry is often noticeable even during rest.

Unresponsive Facial Muscles
Limited or absent movement in the facial muscles on one side can indicate nerve damage, especially if one side does not respond to stimulation.

Medical professionals may conduct a physical examination to confirm a diagnosis, and in some cases, imaging studies or neurological tests can help assess the extent of the damage. Accurate diagnosis enables families to begin seeking treatment and appropriate care for their child’s recovery.

Treatment Options for Birth-Related Bell’s Palsy

Treatment for birth-related Bell’s Palsy depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

Physical Therapy and Gentle Massage
Physical therapy can help stimulate facial muscle activity and promote improved movement over time. Gentle massage may also encourage natural healing, helping to prevent muscle atrophy.

Eye Care for Incomplete Eye Closure
Since infants with Bell’s Palsy may be unable to close one eye completely, using eye drops or ointments can help keep the eye hydrated and protected from potential irritation or infection.

Surgical Intervention in Severe Cases
In rare cases where nerve damage is extensive, surgery may be recommended. Pediatric surgeons specializing in facial reconstructive surgery can assess if nerve repair, nerve grafts, or muscle transplants are appropriate to restore facial function.

Botox Injections for Muscle Symmetry (When Older)
While generally considered in older children, Botox injections can help improve muscle symmetry by weakening overactive muscles on the unaffected side. This can create a more balanced appearance, especially if natural recovery has been limited.

Our attorneys work with families to secure compensation that covers necessary treatments, whether through immediate medical care or ongoing therapies, to support the best possible outcome for each child.

Long-Term Effects of Facial Nerve Damage and Bell’s Palsy

The long-term effects of birth-related Bell’s Palsy vary depending on the severity of the injury. For some children, these effects can include:

Persistent Facial Asymmetry
In cases where nerve function does not fully return, children may continue to experience uneven facial movement or asymmetry, which can impact appearance and self-esteem.

Chronic Eye Issues
Inability to close the eye properly may lead to dryness or irritation, which can, over time, result in chronic eye issues that require special care or corrective procedures.

Speech and Social Development Concerns
Facial nerve damage can impact speech, as facial muscles play a role in articulation and expression. This can, in turn, affect social interactions and confidence, particularly as the child enters school.

Emotional and Psychological Effects
Children with visible facial differences may experience challenges related to self-esteem or social interactions, making early intervention and supportive environments crucial.

Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa works to help families secure the financial resources necessary for comprehensive, ongoing care that addresses both the medical and emotional challenges associated with long-term effects of Bell’s Palsy.

Types of Compensation for Birth Injury Claims

Families impacted by birth injuries may be eligible for several types of compensation, including:

Medical Expenses
Compensation covers costs of hospital stays, pediatric visits, specialist consultations, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy, both for immediate treatment and anticipated future care needs.

Rehabilitation Costs
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy may be required for recovery, and compensation can cover these essential therapies, which support development and quality of life.

Pain and Suffering
Families and children endure both physical pain and emotional distress from birth injuries. Compensation helps to acknowledge the profound impact of the injury on the family’s well-being and the child’s development.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Children with lasting impairments may experience limitations in their ability to fully enjoy life, whether in terms of social interactions, physical activities, or other pursuits. Compensation recognizes these non-economic impacts on quality of life.

Future Lost Earnings
In cases of permanent disability, families may be compensated for the loss of future earning potential, as limitations from the injury can impact the child’s employment options in adulthood.

Educational and Developmental Support
Birth injuries can affect learning and social development, requiring specialized educational support, tutoring, and therapeutic programs. Compensation helps cover these necessary interventions for the child’s development.

Our Florida Bell’s Palsy lawyers work to ensure families receive full compensation for both current and long-term expenses, so they can focus on their child’s recovery and future.

How to File a Claim for Birth-Related Facial Nerve Damage

Filing a claim for a birth-related injury involves the following steps, with guidance from our experienced attorneys:

1. Initial Consultation
   During the consultation, we discuss the details of your case, review medical records, and assess whether medical negligence may have contributed to the injury. This evaluation helps us determine the strength of your case.
2. Evidence Collection
   We gather essential medical documentation, including birth records, pediatric evaluations, diagnostic imaging, and expert opinions, to create a strong foundation for your claim.
3. Medical Expert Analysis
   Working with medical professionals, we assess the standard of care provided during the delivery. Experts help us establish if deviations from this standard contributed to the injury, which is crucial for proving negligence.
4. Valuation of Damages
   We calculate the full scope of financial damages, considering both immediate costs and future expenses. This includes all potential medical needs, therapy costs, and the emotional toll on the family.
5. Negotiation and Settlement
   We negotiate with insurance companies or opposing parties to reach a fair settlement. If necessary, we are prepared to take the case to court to ensure justice and adequate compensation for your family.

Legal Recourse and Your Rights

Medical professionals are required to follow a standard of care designed to prevent unnecessary harm. When this standard is not met and an injury results, families have the right to seek legal recourse. Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa is dedicated to ensuring families receive justice and compensation for medical negligence.

Our approach includes:

Contingency-Based Representation
Our firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only collect payment if we secure compensation on your behalf.

Thorough Case Evaluation and Support
From investigation through litigation, our team provides diligent representation, handling every detail of your case and advocating for your family’s best interests.

Personalized Legal Support
Each case is unique, and our attorneys offer customized support tailored to your family’s specific needs, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout the process.

Taking legal action can alleviate the financial burden associated with birth injuries, and pursuing justice sends a strong message that negligent medical practices must be addressed.

Contact Our Florida Bell’s Palsy Lawyers at Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa Today

If you believe your child’s facial nerve damage resulted from medical negligence, don’t face this alone. Contact Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa for a free, confidential consultation. Our experienced team of Florida Bell’s Palsy lawyers is here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and guide you through your options for legal recourse.