Long Term Bells Palsy

I was diagnosed with Bells Palsy almost 6 years ago after the birth (and 6 days later, the loss) of our son.  I still have residual effects and some synkenesis.  An MRI was never performed nor were any other diagnostics.  Can an MRI determine if the nerves were completely severed and must just accept my "new" face or if I still have hope of regaining some muscle control (via facial retraining, etc.)?

[bellspalsystinks]

First I would like to tell you I am very sorry to about the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
I too have had bells palsy for over 5 months now. The first 2 months were terrible, I had terrible pain and I could not find a doctor that knew how to help me. My neurologist kept ordering test. I had 3 MRI's and and MRA done. They knew that I had more than one nerve that had been attacked, but they didn't seem to know what to do to fix it. I finally found an ENT that got me PT 3 days a week (with a PT who had worked with a number of bells palsy patients) I am still paralized on the right side of my face, but I see an improvement. My eye lid doesn't droop as much and my eyes and mouth look symetrical again. I also use an electrical stimulator on my face every day. I have exercises I do in the mirror every day. I hope to someday smile again and blink my eye, but I have come to terms with the fact that I may be like this forever. I might not regain my muscle control. It is what it is. I do hope you find somone who will help you. Best of Luck!

[caroline747]

Hi. I also got facial paraylis after the birth of my daughter( now 11). Unfortunately the only way you can change you facial muscles in excercise, that took me years to figure out!! There seems to be little research into bells palsy as no one seems to know the cause. Did you have an epidural? If yes I think you may not have 'bells palsy' but damage to the nerves caused by medical negligence. I have researched this for 11 years and although only a lay man with no medical training I believe you need to demand some answers. I am constantly checking for new research which is why I also posted here in the hope that a doctor could give me some more details as purchasing research is pretty expensive!!

On a side note I am sorry to hear about your baby. We lost a baby last year 20mins after birth due to a rare condition called aflp. My thoughts and prayers are with you. It's a very difficult thing to cope with.