Tiffany Chen, the partner of actor Robert De Niro, has opened up about her recent diagnosis of Bell’s palsy. Chen, who gave birth to the couple’s daughter, Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro, in April, said she began experiencing symptoms of the condition shortly after giving birth.

“It was like everything was starting to just fall down on itself,” Chen told CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King. “Like, my face was melting on itself.”

Bell’s palsy is a rare condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. It is not fully understood what causes Bell’s palsy, but it is thought to be caused by a viral infection or inflammation of the facial nerve.

Chen said she had a sharp pain behind her left ear right after delivering via C-section, and later noticed her face was “looking odder.” Doctors told her it was likely fluid buildup after giving birth, but when she got home from the hospital, her facial symptoms worsened. After calling her doctor, Chen was immediately readmitted to the hospital, where “everything fell,” including her lower lip, which made it hard for her to speak.

“I got to a point where it was just hanging and I’d have to hold it up,” Chen said. “And to talk, I’d have to hold my chin and I’d have to manipulate my lower lip to make certain sounds. I couldn’t say ‘Bob.'”

Chen’s symptoms have improved since then, and she said she is not self-conscious about her appearance. However, she said she hates not being able to smile at her daughter.

“I couldn’t give her kisses. That’s what made me self-conscious,” Chen said. “The thing I did worry about was ‘What if it didn’t get better?’ Was my kid going to get made fun of for having the weird-looking mom? That’s the only time, like, vanity comes into play. It’s how it affects the child.”

Chen said that she was grateful for the support of her partner, Robert De Niro, during her illness.

“He tried to say that he didn’t see any difference, he didn’t see any change,” Chen said. “He was like ‘No. … You look fine.’ He’s like, ‘Maybe you look a little stern.’ And I’m like ‘Really?’ My whole face has melted on itself. But he was very strong, very supportive.”

Chen’s story is a reminder that Bell’s palsy can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. If you are experiencing symptoms of Bell’s palsy, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve the chances of a full recovery.

In addition to her story, Chen also shared some advice for other women who have been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy. She said that it is important to be patient and to not be afraid to ask for help. She also said that it is important to remember that you are not alone.

“I think that this is something that is private to us all in a certain way, especially if you’ve experienced it,” Chen said. “But it shouldn’t be kept so private that people lock themselves in their homes. And women should not feel hurt by it, ashamed by it, or just scarred by it.”

Chen’s story is a powerful reminder that Bell’s palsy is a treatable condition, and that it does not have to define you. With the right support, you can make a full recovery and live a full and happy life.