Facial Paralysis - Potential for Recovery? (photo)

Sorry to hear about your problem.  Fist, you should be aware that there are an entirely different group,of nerves that supple sensation from those which provide movement.  So the fact that sensation returned without motor function makes sense and is not an indication that motor function will return.  Re-animation of the paralyzed face is a narrow sub-specialty within plastic surgery.  there are many things that can be done from the simple to the complex.Dryness of the eye can be treated temporarily with eye drops and nighttime ointment.  A simple surgical approach is to use a small gold weight I the eye specifically made for this situation.   Re-animation of the lower face is more complicated sometimes requiring  surgical procedures like nerve grafts or muscle slings, and likely will require multiple procedures.  Since you live in LA,  I would suggest calling the plastic surgery department at UCLA for starters.  Good luck!

The typical recovery happens in the first year, although it is possible for some recovery to occur after that.  It would a good idea for you to see a facial plastic and an oculoplastic surgeon, with facial/eyelid paralysis expertise, for possible dynamic and static surgical options in the meantime, besides keeping your eyes lubricated.  Dr. Azzizadeh and Dr. Nabili are expert facial plastic surgeons with this expertise in Los Angeles, who will work with an oculoplastic surgeon (such as myself) for best facial/eyelid result.