Question: I have recently had an acoustic neuroma surgically removed. Currently my facial nerve is not functioning (although the surgeon's are confident it will come back), so how should I take care of my affected eye? The lid does not close all the way. Thanks.
Answer: Malfunction of the facial nerve after surgery for an acoustic neuroma weakens the facial muscles, including the muscles that close the eyelids. Recovery of facial muscle function is slow because the nerve regenerates at a pace of less than one millimeter per day. (A millimeter is about one twenty-fifth of an inch.) If closure of the eyelids is incomplete, you are at risk for a severe breakdown of the cornea (the clear window in the front of your eye.) Prevention of such a breakdown is of utmost importance. In very mild cases, placing artificial tears and protective ointments into the eye is sufficient. In more severe cases, the eyelids may have to be taped shut or even sewn shut. The health of your eye should be regularly monitored by an Eye M.D. during the regeneration of your facial nerve.
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