Q How long does it take for facial palsy to fully heal? I'm worried about my job.
A Mild cases may take a few weeks, severe cases several months. The course of recovery within 6 to 8 weeks of onset and the initial House-Brackmann grade determine the prognosis.
Detailed Answer
The recovery period for facial nerve palsy varies greatly with the degree of nerve damage. Mild cases with a low House-Brackmann grade recover relatively quickly, whereas severe cases close to complete paralysis may require several months of intensive treatment. If there is no sign of recovery at all even after 6 to 8 weeks of conservative treatment, further evaluation is needed, and electromyography (EMG) and electroneurography (ENoG) results are used to assess the prognosis.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we find that the sooner facial circulation and inflammation are managed and the depleted qi and blood are replenished right after onset, the more stable the course of recovery. During the recovery phase we combine acupuncture and electroacupuncture with facial muscle exercises, and we guide patients to perform gentle exercises in front of a mirror three times a day at home. Because the timing of return to work varies with severity, we recommend securing an adequate recovery period rather than returning to work too soon.
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