Too many open questions on both sides here. How do you know that doctor "hit a nerve?" Does "hit" mean cut the nerve for you?? Ten weeks out and to have neuropraxia = nerve dysfunction is not the same as a cut nerve. Regarding nerves - if they are divided, you will know.... more
SmartLipo nerve damage recovery?
I had SmartLipo under my chin, and the dr. hit a nerve, leaving me with paralysis on the left side of my mouth.
I am now 10 weeks out, and I still have the paralysis. My plastic surgeon just keeps saying it will get better, but I am really starting to wonder since it has been over 2 months and I look like a stroke patient.
How long does it take to recover from nerve damage caused by liposuction?
2 answers to “SmartLipo nerve damage recovery?”
A: Give more time for the nerve to recover
Although it has been recommended that the nerve be repaired it is extremely difficult to repair a nerve that has been bruised and not truly cut. It is highly unlikely that the nerve was cut with Smart Lipo. However, repair would require an incision in the area of the nerve (over the jawline) which is not... more
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81 posts
6 Jan 2009
It sounds like he may have irritated a branch of the marginal mandibular nerve. This particular nerve does not have to be cut in order to cause post-op complications because it does not tolerate stretching or crush injury very well. At 8 weeks there is still definitely some swelling in the area so there is no need to panic. Almost all of the swelling should be gone at 3-4 months, If you are not seeing some return of function at that time you should ask your surgeon to refer you to a neurosurgeon who can provide you options that may help recover some of the function. Between your plastic surgeon and neurosurgeon you will have a few option that should help make things better.
109 posts
6 Jan 2009
Although the timing of repair of facial nerve damage is not exact, by most journals and articles, the sooner the repair the better. From your description it sounds like your marginal mandibular nerve was affected; it tends to run quite superficial to the skin 2cm from the corner of your mouth. It can be injured in several ways (not necessarily severed) by cautery or accidental clamping. If you haven't seen any improvement over 2 months despite the reduction in swelling & inflammation, I would recommend seeking attention sooner as the longer you wait, the chances of finding the distal portion of the nerve (if severed) become more difficult. Sorry to hear your troubles; best of luck.