12/7 six months post op

[marcdi]

Hi guys

I'm 2 weeks shy of the 6 month mark post my hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis. I'm noticing small movement around my nose and underneath my eye, albeit marginal (sometimes I think it's my imagination!).

I was hoping to hear from fellow 12/7 members as to how quickly the recovery progresses post the first signs of movement? I understand that this is an 18 month road, but surely now that the 6 month mark is nigh, the recovery should speed up, or am I being too optimistic?

Thanks in advance for your feedback!

[alabamajane]

Hi,,
I had the procedure done in Oct 2011 and right at 6 mos I started seeing movements. I still see improvement to this day. I had wonderful outcome. Don't force the movements but I did do light massaging on that side to kinda "remind" the nerves/muscles what to do. Patience, as you have no doubt learned,, is your best defense. It takes awhile but you will see improvements more quickly now I believe.

Good luck,, I am glad it seems to have worked well for you.
Jane

[marcdi]

Thanks Jane. Appreciate the input.

In addition to it being 6 months from the 12/7, it will be a year from the main AN op on Friday. I wish I could say this whole experience has taught me patience, but alas, I'm climbing the walls in anticipation of some semblance of a normal looking face!!

Have a great day there!

[Smedina]

Marc,

I don't know that we learn patience so much as have it forced upon us.  I'm almost 4 years out from my 12/7 graft.   It was pretty much like clockwork after about the three month mark I started noticing different sensations around my upper lip that eventually turned into movement.  As the nerve healed, I'd feel this in different zones on the paralyzed side.

Like Jane, I still see and feel improvements today. 

Don't expect the process to be done in 18 months... by that time I'm sure you'll see a big improvement, but there will still be more improvement to come.

Those little imagined movements will become more pronounced in the week and months to come. I agree with Jane- don't try to force anything, just let the process play out.

Best of luck!
-Sam