Will Facial Nerve & Muscle Return to Normal? (Surgery Was 7 Months Ago)

Unfortunately, nerve injury is possible during any surgical procedure, and the facial nerve could potentially be injured during some brow and/or face lifting procedures. It is possible to see continued nerve improvement for 12-18 months after nerve injury (or even longer in some cases), but as others have stated, seeing some improvement is a good prognostic sign, while not seeing any improvement at all would be a bad prognostic sign.
All the best,

First of all, I am so sorry for this unfortunate complication. Please remember that it can happen in the hands of even the best of surgeons.

There is definitely hope. The facial nerve can come back as late as 18 months. Having said that, it is a long road. You have to have a game plan. Here it is for you.

1. Physical appearance: Use make up and hair style changes to hide some of the left side. Work with a good make up artist.

2. Emotional issues: It is not easy to handle the present situation. Make sure you have plenty of emotional support. In these trying times you don't want any friends or family telling you, 'I told you not to do it'. Instead stay close to people who are positive. If you start feeling depressed make sure to get professional help.

3. Your Surgeon: Trust me your surgeon is just as worried as you are if not more. Stay in regular touch with your surgeon, preferrably in person not just by phone

4. Your Recovery: There is no way to expedite the recovery of your nerve but I always tell my patients to do facial exercises by making faces and moving facial muscles in all directions all day long. Also massage the whole face every night with a moisturizer. I prefer cocoa butter with Vit-E

5. Facial Appearance: Maximize the remaining facial appearance. Your surgeon can use some Botox to even out some of the asymmetries between right and left side of the face. Some fillers can be used to soften the deep grooves. These small things will add up to make the face look better.

6. Plan-B: Discuss with your surgeon about what to do if the nerve does not return.

7. No Rush: Do not rush into any procedures, take your time, do your own research.

My best wishes and warm regards.

Dr. J

Disclaimer: This answer is not intended to give a medical opinion and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.