Facial Neuroma
A nonmalignant fibroid growth may grow in the facial nerve itself, producing a gradually progressive facial nerve paralysis. Removal of a facial nerve neuroma usually requires severing the facial nerve. If the facial nerve must be severed at the time of surgery, it is often possible to graft the nerve at the time surgery. The nerve graft is often take from a skin sensation nerve in the neck. If the facial nerve is severed, total facial paralysis will be present until the nerve regrows through the graft, usually a period of 4 to 15 months. Some permanent facial weakness is expected even after the nerve regrows through the graft.
At times, removal of a facial nerve neuroma may necessitate removal of the inner ear structures. If this is necessary, total loss of hearing in the operated ear and temporary severe dizziness are expected.