Comments on: Seek and you shall find the answer

By: Mary

Mary — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:29:36 +0000

I believe I was the woman Mike found at the HFS site and I’m so happy to know I helped him find Dr. Link and the Mayo. It’s been 11 years since my surgery and, unfortunately, I think it may be coming back. Is that possible? If so, how long should I wait before doing something about it? I waited 7 years before I did anything the first time.

By: Polly Gilgenbach

Polly Gilgenbach — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:51:59 +0000

In reply to Carroll Amator. Thank you for your question, and we are sorry to hear that you are having such problems. Unfortunately, we can not provide treatment recommendations via this form of communication. If she would like to consult with one of our physicians about your symptoms, please contact Arizona: 480-301-1735 Florida: 904-953-0853 Minnesota: 507-284-2511.

By: Carroll Amator

Carroll Amator — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:07:26 +0000

Had surgery at Mayo Hospital AZ little more than a month ago. I woke up feeling half of the twitching was already gone. It stayed that way for 2 weeks and n
ow has not only gone back to pre-op twitching, it seems worse. Maybe because the last of the botox is worn off. I’ve had this 2008. Had acupuncture to no avail, botox injections with about 2 years of descent results but then eye drooping occurred as well as mouth droop. It looked like I’d had a stroke. I am depressed over the return of the twitching and trying to be patient hoping it will get better. Any words of encouragement or a direction to go?

By: Dana Sparks

Dana Sparks — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 20:46:15 +0000

In reply to Linda A. Hamrick.

Hello Linda – Thank you for your comment and question about appointments. You do not have to be referred to make an appointment at Mayo. Depending on your location and preference…you can call any of these numbers: Arizona: 800-446-2279 Florida: 904-953-0853 Minnesota: 507-538-3270 http://www.mayoclinic.org/ Hope this helps and that you’re able to have the surgery that will stop the spasms. Best Regard, Dana

By: Linda A. Hamrick

Linda A. Hamrick — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 04:27:42 +0000

I was diagnosed with hemifacial spasms about 9 years ago. I have been treated with botox . It worked really well at the beginning but is no longer working. My eyelid is drooping & I am schedule for a consult for an eyelid lift. I have researched the surgery to stop the spasms & I am at the point where I know surgery is the only answer . I would like to have this surgery where the doctors are trained to do this surgery.Do I have to be referred or can I make my own appointment?

By: Connie Baker

Connie Baker — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 14:39:31 +0000

I was diagnosed with hemifacial spasms but after an MRI the neurologist could not find any cause of the spasms. No tumor and no compression of the facial nerves by any other means. I am currently taking gabapentine but the spasms still occur. I started accupuncture to help me relax and it has helped a little but the spasms still occur. I am at a loss. No underlying cause for the spasms and nothing stops them completely. It has been almost 2 years. I am not asking for a diagnosis but are there any other options for anyone who presents with hemifacial spasms but with no underlying cause?

By: mayoclinic

mayoclinic — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 19:16:46 +0000

In reply to gerald pacholski. We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this correspondence.please contact For your question about the VA, please contact Patient Account Services at 800-660-4582 (toll-free).

By: gerald pacholski

gerald pacholski — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:38:59 +0000

my problem started in my left eye.Iam seeing neuroligst at the V.A. Started with botox helped at first. Now twitch has moved to include cheek chin &lips. On 2 meds which help but very little I don’t feel the meds help is worth the side affects. Next step is MRI If surgery is needed can I seek help with Mayo clinic through the V.A?