ANA Discussion Forum
Post-Treatment => Facial Issues => Topic started by: 26esperanza on March 21, 2009, 10:01:45 pm
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Hi, this is my first time in this forum. Recently in December 9 I had my surgery to remove a 3.5cm accoustic neuroma. The facial nerve was involved into the tumor which cause that part of the facial nerve needed to be cut. The doctor told me he fixed it joining the tonge nerve with the facial nerve. I really dont understand much about this procedure, and I would like that someone help me about it. I have facial paralisis in my left side and 3 months had passed and I have'nt see any improvement. The doctor said that I would get back my facial movements between 6 to 18 months. Someone who have this same situation that could help me? I would like to know also if theraphies with electricity could help improme this or it could be worse? The time the doctor said is real or it can take more time? Please help me.
Esperanza
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Hello Esperanza: You had a 7/12 nerve graft, & it does take time before you'll see movement. I didn't have the nerve graft, but others here have with great results !
Be patient my friend, it will take time for the nerve to come alive again.
Always good thoughts, Nancy
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I hada nerve graft done almost 3 yrs ago witha nerve from by the ear grafted into my cut fscial nerve after a facial neuroma. i was told it would be at least 8 mos before any improvement and that was about right with it improving for quite some time after that but did not get full movement back. So no decent smile but can do a closed mouth one ok and the face looks ok at rest.
Do not use any electrical stimulation. The muscles are not going to work till the nerve is healed. Facial muscles are not of a type which atrophies soon. I know the waiting is hard.
I wish you well and hang in there. Cheryl R