What happens when facial nerve is severed?

The only situation in which the outcome is known is when the facial nerve has been cut or severed. This usually occurs during an operation near or around the facial nerve. If the nerve is cut it will be unable to recover and surgery is the only option available to restore facial symmetry and function.

How do you restore a facial nerve?

There are three basic approaches to facial nerve repair: direct nerve repair, cable nerve grafting or nerve substitution. Direct nerve repair is the preferred option whenever possible and is performed by removing the diseased or affected portion of the nerve, then reconnecting the two nerve ends.

Do facial nerves regenerate?

For full restoration of nerve function, the facial nerve must regenerate and expand from the facial motor nerve while maintaining its function, and ultimately must connect to the damaged terminal area [7,8].

How long does nerve damage take to heal after surgery?

Successful nerve growth to the neuromuscular endplate may take as long as 6-12 months after surgery. After this period, nerve maturation and initial muscle recovery may take 12-18 months. Remember our body is hard at work healing before any electrical recovery can even be detected in the growing nerve fibers!

Does facial nerve regenerate?

What happens if left facial nerve is damaged?

This condition can affect a person’s ability to convey emotion. Most of the time, facial paralysis is limited to one side of the face. Paralysis can occur if any part of the facial nerve, called the seventh cranial nerve, becomes inflamed or damaged.

Can facial nerves regenerate?

Can a facial nerve be repaired?

Today, several different procedures are available for repair of the facial nerve, including direct repair, cable nerve grafting, and nerve crossover techniques.

Can damaged facial nerves heal?

Minor and superficial nerve injuries will often heal themselves. Examination, neurophysiology and clinical imaging will determine whether the injured nerve needs repair, and if so, the options for surgical reconstruction.