Facial spasm/cramp

[Karen4639]

I have paralysis on my AN side and last night I was getting what felt like a cramp or spasm in my chin below the corner of my mouth on the AN side. Any thoughts on what this might mean? I'm only 6 weeks post-op and facial nerve was intact and funtioning during surgery and IMMEDIATELY after but all moement was gone by the time I came out of anesthesia. Is this a sign that the nerve is beginning to function or is this just wishful thinking?

[saralynn143]

Yes, that can be a sign of nerve regeneration. It can feel like a spasm, as you describe, or like a "can of worms" under the skin.

Best wishes for more and more recovery.

Sara

[Karen4639]

I'm curious if there are any other "typical" (as much as anything in this area can be typical) signs to the nerves coming back to life.

[saralynn143]

One sign is "symmetry at rest," that is your face will lose the droopy appearance and look fairly normal during a relaxed expression.

[moe]

Any kind of electrical jolt type feeling will also be a sign that the nerve is coming back to life.
ANY kind of new sensation is a good sign!
Keep looking at yourself in the mirror for improvements!
Maureen

[jilljpower]

Congratulations!!  I think any feeling is good.

I have strong paralysis on one side and my nerve is intact as well.  After 13 months it seems that I have less droopiness and more tone on the affected side.  It seems that when I massage my face I notice stimulation, so you could try pressure, pinching, and massage and see if that helps.  I am starting to get a twitch around my mouth too.  You might want to try vitamin B-12 which is supposed to help with nerve repair.  Acupuncture has been recommended to me and I love it and feel it only can help.

Good luck!
Jill

[Karen4639]

I don't have much droopiness but others tell me I look "better". I don't notice any difference there. When I rub my face it spasms. Today it's also in my cheek. I'm hopeful. Does movement ever come back all of a sudden or it is always gradual?

[moe]

I think it's gradual......