6 Weeks Post Facelift: Right Side Palsy - What Can I Do?

  You have already gotten wonderful (free) advice on this forum.  I would like to add that while the eye is not closing or blinking properly, I recommend that you make certain that you are keeping it well lubricated with artificial tears and ointments.  IMHO, I am not sure that you even need another opinion.  Your doctor is right in that it almost (not 100%) will improve with 6-12 months of healing.

I'm sure this is a very trying and frightening time for you.  Facial Nerve Injuries during facelift surgery is very unusual and most likely this is a temporary injury.  The most important function of the facial nerve is to protect the eyes.  Consider seeing an opthalmologist to maintain the integrity of your cornea to minimize any visual problems.  Nerves can recover as soon as 4 weeks or can take as long as several months.  The most important thing is to remain optimistic and hopeful.  Good luck.

The question describes as facial nerve palsy after a mid face lift.  The incidence of neuropraxia is higher in a subsperiosteal mid-face lift than it is for a SMAS based Facelift (jawline, neck).  The good news is that the majority of neurporaxias resolve spontaneously; 45 days is still well within the window where recovery is possible.  The biggest concern you have right now is inability to close your eye.  I would use artificial tears (Refresh, systane) liberally, apply a thicker form of ointment at night (Refresh PM, lacrilube), and even tape the eye shut while sleeping until function recovers.