Facial Nerve Branches - #7037

I recently had facial numbness and weakness, and my doctor mentioned something about the Facial Nerve Branches being affected. I had no idea that the facial nerve had multiple branches, so I started researching it. What exactly are the Facial Nerve Branches, and what do they control?? From what I read, the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) is responsible for facial expressions, taste, and even some glands that produce tears and saliva. It has five major branches: temporal, zygomatic, buccal, mandibular, and cervical. But what happens if one of these branches is damaged?? I also saw that Bell’s palsy, strokes, or nerve compression can affect the Facial Nerve Branches, leading to weakness, twitching, or loss of movement in part of the face. But how do doctors determine if the problem is temporary, like Bell’s palsy, or something more serious, like a stroke?? One thing I’m really curious about—can Facial Nerve Branches heal if they’re damaged? I read that some nerve injuries recover on their own, while others may require physical therapy, electrical stimulation, or even surgery. How long does it take for facial nerve function to return?? For those who have had issues with Facial Nerve Branches, what symptoms did you experience? Did any treatments help restore movement and sensation??