Loading...
Fractures to the facial bones may occur after traumas such as falls, blows and traffic accidents. These fractures may sometimes cause no change in the skin, or else may be visible and accompanied by swelling in the region, loss of sensation, sensitivity and pain.
Facial fractures are diagnosed by examination and x-ray, and sometimes using tomography. Follow-up may be applied if no deformity occurs and the fracture line is mobile. If the fracture line is mobile and is causing deformity, then surgery is preferred. This involves restoring the bone to its original position, using plates and screws.
Facial fracture surgery is usually performed under general anesthetic. Small incisions are made to access the fracture zone. These may be made from inside the mouth or eyelid or from the edge of the eyebrows in order to avoid scarring.
Swelling, pain and sensitivity in the area are normal, particularly in the first few days. Swelling starts to decline after 3 or 4 days.
Complications of facial fractures that may develop in the early period include bleeding, infection and wound opening. These are generally very rare, however, and can be treated. Revision of surgical scars may be required in the late period. Small indentations or protrusions may appear in the area of surgery. These can be treated with additional procedures at a level of 5%, Numbness is an expected condition in the area of surgery, and may sometimes persist for a few months.