How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover from Facial Paralysis Caused by Skull Fracture?

Facial paralysis resulting from a skull fracture may not always lead to a full recovery. The extent of recovery largely depends on the severity of the facial nerve damage. Here are some common scenarios:

Mild Nerve Compression

Mild cases of skull fracture may result in only slight pressure on the facial nerve. In these situations, a complete recovery is possible. It typically takes more than two weeks for initial improvements to appear, with full recovery often occurring within one month.

Moderate to Severe Nerve Compression

If the facial nerve is significantly compressed but not completely severed, surgical intervention such as facial nerve decompression may be required. With timely treatment and successful surgery, patients may experience substantial improvement, potentially approaching full recovery. However, this process usually takes longer, with noticeable results appearing between three to seven weeks after the incident.

Complete Nerve Severance

In more severe cases where the facial nerve is entirely cut due to the skull fracture, nerve repair or grafting becomes necessary. This may involve reconnecting the severed nerve ends or using a different nerve to bridge the gap. Recovery in these cases depends heavily on the timing of the surgery and how well the nerves heal. Some patients may achieve partial or even significant recovery, but a full return to normal function is rare. The recovery period typically ranges from four to twelve weeks, though outcomes can vary greatly depending on individual healing and surgical success.