I’m extremely worried that there is permanent nerve damage 10 days post-op?

Question

I’m 10 days post op chin lipo. But my lower jaw is delayed, I can't smile and show my bottom teeth and I talk with a horrible lisp. I’m extremely worried, that there is permanent nerve damage. The tip of my tongue is numb. I’m a marketing director in my company and talking is what I do everyday. I wore my compression garment for a week 24/7 and this week started only wearing it at home. I started getting lymphatic drainage massages and they seem to be helping with the swelling, but my mouth is still drooping. HELP

Sagar Patel, MD · Answer

Generally the nerve will come back. I know its scary and I'm sorry it is happening to you. My suggestion would be to talk to your surgeon. There is particular testing that can be done after 21 days (electrical stimulation and EMG testing) that will tell you if the damage is permanent or not and these tests can be covered by insurance. I would say regardless of the tests, you will have to wait it out.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

I'm very sorry to hear you are experiencing this issue. I have never seen (or known a patient) who had this be a permanent problem. It typically resolves within a few weeks. You are doing the right things. Hang in there and see your surgeon often for advice. Best wishes

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

you have neurapraxia of your mandibular nerve, a branch of the facial nerve.  It's not possible at this point to determine the level of neurapraxia. Nerve function typically comes back within a few days to several months.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

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I’m extremely worried that there is permanent nerve damage 10 days post-op?

Answers (3)

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