Atypical Facial Pain

Okay. I'm new to this board, but not new to Atypical Facial Pain. I have had chronic pain in the left side of my face for over 10 years now. Briefly - the back story is that I thought I had a tooth ache, then sinus infection, then TMJ. . . saw many doctors with no diagnosis other than Atypical Facial Pain. The pain is constant, but I am able to control it with advil and celebrex a couple of times a day. I gave up trying to find the "cause" or the "cure," and have moved on and try not to let it interfere with my life. With that, I have a question. . . . I am 47 and am contemplating having a facelift. I told the plastic surgeon about the facial pain and he said that it would not be an issue. I, however, am a little worried that this type of surgery may make the facial pain worse. Does anybody have any thoughts about this or experience. Please don't judge me about the plastic surgery decision (I know some people have strong feelings one way or another about it). I've thought it through and I am trying to make an informed decision and the last thing I want to do is may my facial pain worse. On the other hand, who knows. . . It might make it go away. . .

Welcome!
Because of a friend who has Trigeminal Neuralgia, that's my first thought about your condition. Have you considered that? There are some very good online support groups for that also. I've spent some time on them. The typical advice for elective surgery is NO WAY since so many things seem to make the pain worse so why take a chance. I'm a bit concerned about your doctor saying an undiagnosed facial pain would be "no problem". Hope he is right. I suggest you Google TN or Facial Pain support groups and ask for their opinions also.

Post Edited (Abilene) : 8/7/2014 5:12:21 PM (GMT-6)