Lack of Mouth Movement, Unable to Blink or Pucker: All Results of Facelift?

Thanks for your question -

It sounds like you are describing is a facial nerve weakness or injury.  You should follow up with the plastic and cosmetic surgeon that did your Face Lift so the degree of this weakness can be ascertained. 

Many times small amounts of weakness improves over 3-6 months.  In your case it sounds like there may be multiple nerves of concern.  In addition, inability to blink can create dry eye which can lead to corneal ulceration.

These issues should be evaluated by your surgeon.  Don't hesitate to get a second opinion.

I hope this helps.

Linda

You are describing could involve just the buccal branches of the facial nerve. The buccal branches will supply the muscles that affect the muscles that make the smile.  The blinking issue could also be the effect of the buccal branch of the facial nerve.  An actual examination is needed to know precisely your issues.  It is likely that the surgery injured one major branches of the buccal nerve.  These can recover or the  injury may be permanent.  One concern with the blink is corneal drying.  An oculoplastic surgeon can assess you for eye drying.  However, I would not be in a hurry to have more surgery.  There may be some recovery of function and this can take several months.  A second opinion is reasonable and appropriate.