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Eye and Vision Care

Third Nerve Paralysis

12/22/2009

Question:

I had car accident 4 months ago, I had head injury. My right eye is closed and doesn`t move up down and in, it does not respond to light. How long does it take for recovery, if it is a possibility. Thank you.

Answer:

I am sorry to hear of your accident. Unfortunately I can not answer your question directly. How much movement will return to your eye and eye lid depends on many factors. One main factor is how much damage was done directly to the nerve versus how much of the loss of movement is due to swelling in the area of the nerve. This swelling can take 6 to 12 months to diminish. Thus, most doctors will recommend waiting a minimum of 6 months before considering a surgical correction for any remaining eye or lid movement problems.

Good luck with your recovery.

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Response by:

Andrew J Toole, OD, PhD, FAAO
Clinical Assistant Professor of Optometry
College of Optometry
The Ohio State University