Meet the team behind Facial Palsy NZ

Mr Dan Butler is a New Zealand and UK-trained Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 15 years’ experience. He works privately in Tauranga and Whakatāne and holds public appointments at both local hospitals. Dan has advanced training in cosmetic, reconstructive, and facial palsy surgery, having worked at leading UK centres before returning to New Zealand.

Ms Caryn Pieters is a physiotherapist with a special interest in facial palsy and facial rehabilitation. With over 25 years of experience, she has worked across South Africa, the UK, and the USA before settling in New Zealand in 2021. Caryn holds a postgraduate qualification in Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapy and brings a patient-centred, evidence-based approach to facial recovery.

Dr Chow is a New Zealand-trained ophthalmologist who takes pride in providing personalised holistic care. His warm and down-to-earth manner complements his emphasis in effective communication. He is dedicated to understanding your concerns, thoroughly answering your questions, and ensuring you feel confident with your treatment decisions.

Emily is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with additional qualifications in Craniofacial Surgery. Emily is passionate about facial palsy management and is the lead of the multidisciplinary facial palsy team based in Wellington at Hutt Hospital.

Catherine is a physiotherapist with a special interest in facial palsy. Catherine has had advanced and highly specific international training in facial physiotherapy. Catherine completed training in facial neuromuscular retraining on a course created by pioneers of this therapy, Susan Rankin and Jackie Diels