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October 27, 2015 I was diagnosed with Bell's...
I saw two neurologists who explained there was nothing that could be done. Any recovery would have to happen within 12 months. Therapists would not see me for 6-12 months from onset. After I started seeing movement returning, I started acupuncture for 12 months, which helped but already had the sinkinesis. The muscles felt tight so my primary doctor suggested physical rehab and referred me to a rehab facility for stroke patients. I did 16 sessions and was taught how strengthen muscles due to muscle atrophy and the synkinesis.
It is now 2 years later and a nerve test shows nerve function has returned but my issue is the synkinesis.
Neurologists figure the optical nerve connected to corner of nose and mouth. I have to hold my cheek in order to pronounce letters such as m, p, b. The lip need to seal so just hold cheek while I speak with anyone. Also have to hold my cheek to chew food on the right side and avoid drooling. Stretching exercises sometimes helps keep the cheek loose but always tightens again. Breathing through my right nostril make it hard to sleep. A breathe right helps keep it open so I can get a restful sleep. My right eye also closes when I eat. Tears also pool in the eye so hard to focus then run down my cheek.
I had come to accept this as "my life" until I met Dr. King, who referred me to Dr. Catherine Weng. See below!!!
Provider Review
Two years post Bell's Palsy we moved to Colorado and upon meeting Dr. King for a different issue, he noticed me holding my cheek to make conversation. He said they can help with that and referred me to Dr. Catherine Weng. Dr. Weng noticed my cheek was collapsing into my nostril and suggested a face lift of the cheek. My appearance was NOT a concern for me but opening the nostril, sealing the corner of mouth and helping eye stay open when eating would help me regain some of what I lost. I am almost 1 month post op and my nostril is open, therefore, have not needed a breathe right at night! I can now pronounce m, p, and b, therefore, don't have to hold my cheek to make conversation and easier to chew on the right side. The eye is more open and tearing has decreased! The insurance company initially denied the procedure but after a peer to peer the procedure was approved!!! Thank you Dr. King for referring me to Dr. Weng. You have changed my life. My family, friends and customers can all notice the difference and this procedure has definitely improved my quality of life.