A nerve was hit during facelift, causing sagging to lower corner of bottom left lip. Looks like I had a slight stroke? (Photo)

Typically the marginal branch will return in function up to six months after the procedure. There is nothing to do to make it heal any faster. It could be permanent but usually is from stretching the nerve or cautery injury to the smaller branches but it usually returns to normal function. If it is permanently injured, which occurs less than 1% of the time, then there are things you can do to compensate for that injury. I recommend close follow up with your surgeon.

If this was done recently, it should heal with time.  You should allow 9 to 12 months for healing after surgery.  Often the nerve comes back sooner, in about 3-6 months. There really isn't anything you can do to speed healing.  There are no medicines or treatments to speed healing or tests to order.  You need to give it time. Try not to worry and follow with your surgeon to insure proper care.

Nerve injuries are relatively rare with a facelift, but occasionally happen. If this injury of yours is due to a cautery injury (heat used to stop minor bleeding), the nerve will most likely recover within about 6-8 weeks. If the injury was due to mechanical injury during the facelift, the recovery could take longer and there is the possibility that it won't recover at all. Hopefully your surgeon has a good idea of the possible cause and thus the expected outcome. Have an honest discussion with them.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Rejuvenation Specialist