Facial nerve testing

[Stephanie]

Hi - I am new to the forum so forgive me if the question has already been asked and answered.
I had my surgery a little over 5 weeks ago, I am scheduled to go in for nerve testing soon and I was wondering what the testing is like?
My Dr. explained the procedure and said it is "uncomfortable" so if I notice movement I need to let him know and I won't have to have the test. This worries me, I am a wimp when it comes to pain.
I have had no sign of facial movement on my left side since the surgery and after reading some of the other posts it doesn't sound like that is too uncommon. I can partially close my left eye if I try real hard, it closes fully on its own when I sleep but it still doesn't blink. This is not enough movement for the Dr. he still wants to do the test.

[jilljpower]

I wouldn't worry about the test.  It is uncomfortable, but it is also very interesting.  The test that I receive is an EMG and if I remember correctly, they stick a needle into the face and have your contract your muscle.  The needle transmits movement to sound, so that is how they know if your muscle and nerve are communicating and working.  The other test was a tiny shock into my facial nerve.  This is to see if the electricity goes through your face on the paralyzed side.

I was told that I have little movement around the mouth, so at least they know for sure that the nerve is intact.  Positive at least!
Good luck with your test,
Jill

[Jim Scott]

Hi, Stephanie - and welcome.

I believe Jill answered your inquiry about nerve testing, which is a good thing, because I never had that test and really couldn't answer your question.  I'm sure you'll do fine. I just wanted to extend a welcome and my hope that you'll be a frequent contributor to the forums as you continue your recovery.

Jim

[TOM]

I had my surgeey 4 weeks back and my symptons are exactly like you. I also have no facial movement on the left side and the left eye partially closes but i dont have to try too hard. My left eye is completely dry and needs to be lubricated every one hour.

My doctor has not asked for any test. He wants to wait and see.

[Stephanie]

I had my nerve testing, the nerve is intact but there was no sign of movement. Kind of discouraged now but it has only been 8 weeks since my surgery so I know it is early still. If I could just blink my left eye I would feel so much better. Getting tired of the eye drops and sensitivity to the sun. I can finally wear sunglasses again but they hurt after awhile because they rest right on my scar, at least I get a little break. That was another thing I never thought of until I had surgery : /

[TOM]

Good to know that the nreve is intact. Did the doctor give you any time frame when it will start working.

did he recommend any exercise?

Thanks

[Stephanie]

No, no time frame. He (surgeon) just told me not to get discouraged because these things take time. He wants to test me again at 6 mo. out. The test was given by a neurologist but the surgeon is the one who ordered it. I don't have an appointment with the surgeon until the end of the month. He called but didn't mention exercises or anything I'm sure he will go more indepth at the appt.

[saralynn143]

Stephanie, I had an EMG at about 9-10 weeks post-op. The test itself showed no movement, but I saw a facial nerve specialist the next day and he said he could see the tiniest movement by my nose, one that I could not even see. I asked him when the EMG would need to be repeated, and he said never, that if he could detect movement the nerve was healing and we would just see where I ended up in a year's time.

He also said no exercises or therapy until after a year to minimize synkenesis. I am now 27 months post-op, symmetry at rest, and a small smile. I saw a facial physical therapists a couple of times last spring and need to make an appointment to see her again soon.

It's hard to be patient, but time is about the only thing we have on our sides.

Best wishes to you.

Sara