I consulted a Board Certified Surgeon, who diagnosed Bell's Palsy and wait for self-recovery. It has been three years, although did not recover on its own. It has worsened as the weight of the buccal/jowl fat is pulling down. Please tell me treatment suggested. The right side has just signs of regular aging for my age. My smile is asymmetric when naturally smiling, although I can still move that side intentionally.
Answer: Bell's Palsy It does appear that you have Bell’s palsy. At 3 years out, the chances of spontaneous recovery are slim. Additionally, the longer that the muscles of your face do not have any nerve input or activity, the more likely they will be to deteriorate and not work properly ever again. I would suggest you meet with a different plastic surgeon who specializes in facial surgery related to Bell’s palsy. There are options for improvement, but not likely options at this point to re-innervate the muscles that aren’t working.
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Answer: Bell's Palsy It does appear that you have Bell’s palsy. At 3 years out, the chances of spontaneous recovery are slim. Additionally, the longer that the muscles of your face do not have any nerve input or activity, the more likely they will be to deteriorate and not work properly ever again. I would suggest you meet with a different plastic surgeon who specializes in facial surgery related to Bell’s palsy. There are options for improvement, but not likely options at this point to re-innervate the muscles that aren’t working.
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December 18, 2017
Answer: Facial Asymmetry A face lift can improve your symmetry post Bell's Palsy while your face is at rest but when you smile or animate the asymmetry of muscle function is still going to be visible. Restoration of muscle function after three years requires either muscle transfer or a neurotized free muscle sling. Please consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is experienced with these techniques. In my opinion, I would wait to do the face lift until you have the procedure to restore muscle function performed, unless your surgeon feels it can be accomplished simultaneously. I hope this information helps you.
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December 18, 2017
Answer: Facial Asymmetry A face lift can improve your symmetry post Bell's Palsy while your face is at rest but when you smile or animate the asymmetry of muscle function is still going to be visible. Restoration of muscle function after three years requires either muscle transfer or a neurotized free muscle sling. Please consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is experienced with these techniques. In my opinion, I would wait to do the face lift until you have the procedure to restore muscle function performed, unless your surgeon feels it can be accomplished simultaneously. I hope this information helps you.
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