Restoring function and quality of life

Jessyka Lighthall, MD, FACS
Chief, Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Founder/Director, Penn State Health Facial Nerve Clinic
Medical Director, Penn State Health Esteem Cosmetic Center

Dr. Jessyka Lighthall may have discovered facial plastic surgery by chance during a medical school rotation, but what began as a moment of serendipity has evolved into a deeply fulfilling career. Now the division chief of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, she dedicates her work to restoring function and enhancing the quality of life for her patients.

With Penn State Health’s support, Dr. Lighthall started the Facial Nerve Clinic in 2016 to bring life-changing care to an underserved region. Through this clinic, patients who once had limited options now receive expert care for facial paralysis and facial movement disorders right in their own community.

“You're meeting people at one of the most vulnerable points in their lives,” she explains. They've lost facial function, symmetry, their ability to eat, drink or even communicate with others. Many believe this is how they’ll live the rest of their lives. Being able to make a meaningful difference is what drives me every day.”

It’s stories like these that drive our purpose.