Right side facial nerve damage after tumour removal. Can you help us?

Question

3 years ago my wife had a large brain tumour removed from the base of her skull. The tumour had grown around the facial nerves & she got severe bells palsy like symptoms after the op. 3 years later the right side of her face remains paralysed. The right eye does not blink or tear properly, she has a droop on one side of her mouth & frequent eye infections due to the dryness. I would do anything to help her get her tears back so that she does not lose her vision. Can anyone help us?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

These are common concerns after removal of large skull base tumors. I hope that you were connected with a Facial Plastic Surgeon or Oculoplastic Surgeon after your wife's tumor removal. If so, you should return to their office ASAP. If not, a consultation with a local surgeon would be very helpful. There are many options to remedy the effects of facial paralysis. The can be static (lifting and repositioning drooping tissue) or dynamic (simulating normal muscle movement by reanimating the face). The most critical component is protection of the eye. There are many non-surgical options (ointments, drops, eye moisture chamber) that can be instituted now. Surgery to weight the upper lid and lift the lower lid are often also required to enable the eyes to close. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Kofi Boahene, MD · Answer

It appears your wife had an acoustic neuroma resected. If the facial nerve was left intact, recovery is usually  expected between 6 to 12 months after surgery.3 years out implies no likelihood of any spontaneous recovery since her facial muscles have been denervated for too long .she has several options . We prefer to dynamically reanimate the face to restore symmetry , smile and eyelid closure. This often requires transfer of nerves and muscles.She he could send a short video of her face for evaluation and specific recommendation can then be given.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Facial nerve paralysis can sometimes occur after skull base tumor removal.  The inability to fully close the eye and drooping of the side of the mouth (often leading to drooling with liquids) can be addressed and significantly improved.   Please consult with a board certified specialist, like a facial plastic surgeon, who can assist you with improving your wife's symptoms.  Please do not wait too long as the dryness in the eyes should be addressed quickly.

Right side facial nerve damage after tumour removal. Can you help us?

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Right side facial nerve damage after tumour removal. Can you help us?

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