Facial nerve palsy is common in HFM. However it is rarely severe enough to obtain significant benefits from nerve reanimation. Sling procedures can be carried out as well as free tissue transfer. Generally speaking severe palsy of the upper branch of the nerve is managed by a gold weight in the upper eyelid to facilitate closure of the eyelid.
Apply ice packs (may be effective in a short term to minimize edema).
The sterile dressing placed over the incisions is maintained for a minimum of 48 hours. Thereafter routine wound care should be instituted.
Antibiotic prophylaxis is continued for 1-5 days depending on the nature, complexity, and duration of the surgical procedure.
Remove sutures from skin after approximately 5 days if nonresorbable sutures have been used.
Regular follow up examinations to monitor healing are required.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning to skin incisions for several months.