Facial discomfort

[Kaybee]

After two months of full facial paralysis, I've accepted (though not easyily and not happily) how I'm going to look for the next year (or more!) but I have a lot of discomfort in my cheek and in my mouth.  Tightness and pain in my mouth were my first tumor symptoms.  So I'm totally annoyed that removal of the tumor did not alleviate this.  Does the discomfort subside with time even if paralysis remains?  Or are they a package deal?

Thanks!
Kay

[Debbi]

Interesting question - I hope someone here may be able to provide some wisdom on this.  I did NOT have any facial or mouth tightness before surgery, but had grade 6 facial paralysis after which resulted in my cheek on that side feeling very tight (that is, once I regained some feeling!)  I still have tightness on that side, but I also having some parts of my face that still don't move either, so it is probably related in some way. 

Debbi

[amymeri]

Kaybee

Tingling and numbness were my first symptoms (and only) of my tumor and they got worse after my surgery and now 4 years out continue to be a daily issue for me.  Sensations range from pain to numbness and tingling and vary daily.  It is VERY annoying so you have my sincere sympathy!

Amy

[Doc]

At six months I'm still having similar issues...its seems to be getting better but is still an issue all the same.  Eating "neatly" is a challenge; I make a terrible mess of things and it's (was) embarrassing to eat in public...you know what though, I don't care anymore. Face first even if means getting it on your face...eat and be happy I say...I'm hungry!

Take Care!
  
Doc

[lifeisgood]

You will be surprised how common this is unfortunately.
The sad thing is that most surgeons don't know what to do with us after the surgery.
I have pain which I get approx 2 times per month (very hormonally impacted) which starts on one side and then after about a day or 2 jumps to the other side.
It feels like trigeminal neuralgia.  It can feel quite "nervy" and so uncomfortable that it is unbearable at times.
Fortunately, I can kill the pain if I take an imitrex at the very onset.  I am just getting over a 3 day bender. I managed though this time.
It is definitely aggrivated by stress as well

I make the best of it.  It hit me around 2 years or less. I have seen many doctors. I ever got a scan of my trigeminal nerve.  Nothing.  Nobody especially the neuro guys have an answer. I believe that if you have an issue with your facial nerve and there is trauma to it, that this is what can happen.

Again, you are not alone.
I am sooooo grateful when I feel good!!!!!!!
That is one lesson I have learned.

Be well.
Mary