Hemifacial Spasm in New York, NY
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Contact UsWhat is a hemifacial spasm?
Dr. Raymond Sekula at The Neurological Institute of New York in New York, NY offers holistic diagnostic, surgical, and follow-up care for those grappling with hemifacial spasms. This uncommon disorder, marked by spontaneous, involuntary twitching of one side of the face due to the facial nerve's (seventh cranial nerve) involvement, impacts individuals across all age groups and profoundly affects their quality of life. Trust in Dr. Sekula's dedication to providing the finest, evidence-based treatment for those facing this challenging condition.
What are the Risk Factors for Hemifacial Spasms?
While the exact cause of hemifacial spasms is not always clear, certain factors may increase your risk of developing this condition, including:
- Age: Hemifacial spasms are more common in older adults over the age of 40. This can be due to the natural wear and tear of blood vessels as we age.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop hemifacial spasms than men.
- Blood vessel abnormalities: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of blood vessel compression on the facial nerve.
- Neurological disorders: Hemifacial spasms may be associated with other neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
Patients with a higher risk of developing hemifacial spasms should consult with a specialist like Dr. Sekula for early diagnosis and treatment to improve their quality of life.
How Is A Hemifacial Spasms Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hemifacial spasms involves a thorough assessment of the patient's symptoms and medical history. The primary diagnostic method includes:
- Neurological examination: A detailed examination to observe the involuntary twitching, which often begins with eye twitching and can progress to other facial areas.
- Imaging tests: Advanced imaging techniques like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be used to identify any blood vessels compressing the facial nerve.
- Electromyography (EMG): This test may be conducted to record the electrical activity of muscles and confirm the presence of nerve damage.
Dr. Sekula's approach to diagnosing hemifacial spasms is comprehensive, aiming to identify the underlying cause, whether it's a compressed nerve or an idiopathic condition. His expertise ensures patients receive the most accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment planning.
What Are the Causes of A Hemifacial Spasm?
The primary cause of hemifacial spasm is believed to be the compression or irritation of the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face. This compression is often attributed to the abnormal contact between a blood vessel, typically an artery, and the facial nerve near the brainstem. As the blood vessel compresses the nerve, it can lead to erratic signals and involuntary muscle movements. While the exact cause is not always clear, factors such as aging, blood vessel abnormalities, or certain neurologic conditions may contribute to the development of hemifacial spasms.
What Are Symptoms of A Hemifacial Spasm?
Hemifacial spasms can vary in intensity and frequency, ranging from occasional twitches to constant, repetitive contractions. Individuals with hemifacial spasms may experience facial twitching, blinking, or grimacing that can interfere with daily activities such as talking, eating, or even driving. The spasms are usually unilateral, affecting only one side of the face, and tend to worsen over time. While the condition is not typically painful, the persistent and uncontrollable twitching can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Seeking medical evaluation from professionals like Dr. Raymond Sekula is crucial to accurately diagnose hemifacial spasms and explore treatment options to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How is a hemifacial spasm treated?
Due to the limited success of oral medications in mitigating the frequency and severity of facial spasms, many turn to botulinum toxin (BOTOX®) injections or microvascular decompression surgery. An increasing number of HFS patients seek experienced surgeons, like Dr. Sekula, for this intricate procedure. During the surgery, Dr. Sekula moves a blood vessel away from the facial nerve, inserting a felt cushion between them via a small incision behind the ear. Dr. Sekula, acclaimed globally for his expertise, has performed thousands of microvascular decompression surgeries for hemifacial spasms. He has consistently improved the technique, enabling most patients to spend just 1 – 2 nights in the hospital, typically bypassing intensive care before discharge.
Dr. Raymond Sekula Reviews
First, let me say finding Dr. Sekula was a challenge, but once I knew where to look, it was clear I needed to see him. Let me explain. I have a rare condition called HFS, where an artery in the brain was impinging on a facial nerve causing facial spasms on one side of my face. I'm in the Cincinnati area, and I saw no less than 4 neurosurgeons during a 2 year period to see what could be done. All physicians told me nothing other than botox injections were viable treatments, including two surgeons at the well known Mayfield Brain institute. So I spent the next 5 years getting botox injections to quell the symptoms. As I researched more I found a Facebook group that focused on HFS, and Dr. Sekula's name repeatedly appeared in the posts. Long story short, I met with him, he took some MRI images, said he could help. And he did. Had decompression surgery over 2 years ago and my spasms have completely disappeared. Life changing operation for me. Let me give several small bits of advice to patients of unusual conditions. Don't listen to Drs who don't routinely deal with your condition. They don't know so they can't help. It's that simple. Do look for solutions on your own...they are many places to look, Facebook one of them, medical literature, Youtube, and simple Google searches (but ignore the self serving websites). Travel if you have an unusual condition. It's well well worth the effort to get in with a Dr who knows what to do. Don't listen to self-appointed neurosurgeons on the web (Facebook groups as well). They will give you recos on the type of surgery you need (you should look for a Dr who does this technique or that technique) Really? No thanks, I'll ask the world's expert what they think. And lastly, ignore the stories of the discontent littering the internet. No surgery is 100% successful. Play the odds. Get one of the most experienced, most recognized Docs for your condition and use that Doc. On a personal note, in addition to being a leading neurosurgeon, Dr. Sekula is just a pleasant, kind and caring physician who I believe truly always does what he understands as the patient's best interest. Can't go wrong.
Dr. Sekula gave me my life back! I was a young mom with a toddler and a condition that no neurosurgeon could figure out. I suffered for two years with useless Botox treatments from other neurosurgeons who didn’t have a clue. I finally found Dr. Sekula in a Facebook group for HFS. Within a few months I got my records over to him and was on the table in Erie, Pa. My dad was with me and almost in tears as Dr. Sekula came in to see me before surgery and he was SO KIND and reassured my Dad that everything would be okay. It took about 6 weeks to fully heal (spasms stopping completely) and the rest has been history. I could NEVER thank this man enough!
Really grateful to Dr. Sekula and happy that he is in NYC at NY-Presbyterian/Columbia. When I started looking into treatment for hemifacial spasm, Dr. Sekula's name repeatedly came up as one of the top neurosurgeon for hemifacial spasm but was getting information that he was based in PA. I would have travelled to PA based on many positive feedback regarding his expertise and kind easy-going demeanor. For my first appointment with Dr. Sekula, I came with a list of questions but he covered almost all of them before I asked. His approach is honest and grounded but reassuring that he is able to help my condition. I had MVD surgery with Dr. Sekula in May of this year (2024). I woke up from surgery spasm free. Even thru the initial side effects of surgery such as nausea and headaches, I was very grateful for a positive result. Dr. Sekula gave me "re-start" as hemifacial spasm is a very debilitating condition. Dr. Sekula has an awesome team in Caroline and Brianna. Very helpful and responsive throughout pre and post op. I found the pre-op screening/appointments were easy to get done thru the hospital. Also grateful to the staff at NY- Presbyterian's 8 Hudson South as they were awesome during my hospital stay.
Dr. Sekula performed a procedure (MVD) to alleviate a hemi-facial spasm that had plagued me for many years. The surgery was a resounding success; I am completely spasm free and I couldn't be more grateful to Dr. Sekula and all the support staff at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.
I had suffered with hemifacial spasms on the left side of my face for around six years. After hearing about Dr. Sekula’s success with this condition, I flew from Alabama to New York City to have surgery on June 12. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made! I went through testing the day before my surgery, and the MRI revealed that I had a vein on my facial nerve instead of an artery. Dr. Sekula explained that this is much more rare and outcomes for success not quite as good. I really appreciated his complete honesty with me. But after discussing this with my daughter and prayer, we decided to go ahead with the surgery. What was normally a one and a half to two hour surgery took about four hours in my case. But from the moment I woke up in the recovery room I have not had a single spasm since, and I am writing this three months later. I did have some facial weakness on the left side but this is slowly improving as Dr. Sekula predicted. I can not thank this compassionate and skilled surgeon enough! And I thank God for leading me to him!! Dr. Sekula and his whole team are very professional and caring individuals. I can highly recommend them!
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Seek Expert Care for Hemifacial Spasms Today
Don't let hemifacial spasms dictate the rhythm of your life. With advancements in medical treatments and surgical interventions, relief is within reach. Whether you're considering botulinum toxin injections or exploring the nuances of microvascular decompression surgery, take control of your health and seek comprehensive care today. Reach out to Dr. Raymond Sekula at The Neurological Institute of New York in New York, NY, and let us guide you on your journey to a life free from the challenges of hemifacial spasms.
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About UsHemifacial Spasm FAQs
Who might get hemifacial spasm?
Both men and women are susceptible to hemifacial spasm, though it is more common in women over 40 years of age.
What causes hemifacial spasm?
The condition often arises from compressed facial nerves, usually due to a blood vessel pressing against a facial nerve. In some cases, the cause remains unknown, termed idiopathic hemifacial spasm.
What are the symptoms of hemifacial spasm?
The primary symptom is intermittent eye twitching, which can progress to other facial areas. Spasms may worsen under stress or fatigue, sometimes pulling the mouth to one side.
