Facial Nerve Paralysis (Cranial Nerve VII — Complete)

DC 8207Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8207

Complete or severe paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve (facial nerve), causing inability to move one side of the face. Unlike Bell's palsy, which is often temporary, this refers to persistent or permanent facial nerve damage from injury, surgery, or disease.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8207

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8207. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Complete paralysis — you have total inability to move one side of your face, cannot close your eye, and have no voluntary facial movement on the affected side.

What the VA looks for

Total loss of voluntary facial movement on one side
Complete inability to close eye (lagophthalmos)
Complete loss of forehead, cheek, and lip movement
Speech articulation difficulties
Corneal exposure requiring surgical intervention or eye protection

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing complete from incomplete paralysis — the rating difference between 20% (severe incomplete) and 30% (complete) is significant. Make sure your C&P exam documents exactly which facial movements are absent versus weak.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — facial nerve paralysis commonly causes eye problems (corneal damage, excessive tearing), ear problems (hyperacusis), and psychological conditions (depression, social anxiety) that warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not documenting functional impacts beyond appearance — difficulty eating, drinking, speaking clearly, and managing oral hygiene are all relevant functional impairments the examiner should record.
⚠Confusing this with Bell's palsy — if your facial paralysis has persisted beyond the typical Bell's palsy recovery period (3-6 months), request updated diagnostic testing to document the permanent nature of the nerve damage.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Cranial Nerves Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Facial Nerve Paralysis (Cranial Nerve VII — Complete)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8207

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Complete paralysis — you have total inability to move one side of your face, cannot close your eye, and have no voluntary facial movement on the affected side.

What the VA looks for

Total loss of voluntary facial movement on one side
Complete inability to close eye (lagophthalmos)
Complete loss of forehead, cheek, and lip movement
Speech articulation difficulties
Corneal exposure requiring surgical intervention or eye protection

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing complete from incomplete paralysis — the rating difference between 20% (severe incomplete) and 30% (complete) is significant. Make sure your C&P exam documents exactly which facial movements are absent versus weak.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — facial nerve paralysis commonly causes eye problems (corneal damage, excessive tearing), ear problems (hyperacusis), and psychological conditions (depression, social anxiety) that warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not documenting functional impacts beyond appearance — difficulty eating, drinking, speaking clearly, and managing oral hygiene are all relevant functional impairments the examiner should record.

⚠Confusing this with Bell's palsy — if your facial paralysis has persisted beyond the typical Bell's palsy recovery period (3-6 months), request updated diagnostic testing to document the permanent nature of the nerve damage.