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Facial trauma is any injury of the face and upper jaw bone (maxilla).
Alternative NamesMaxillofacial injury; Midface trauma; Facial injury; LeFort injuries
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsBlunt or penetrating trauma can cause injury to the area of the face that includes the upper jaw (maxilla). Common causes of injury to the face include:
- Automobile accidents
- Penetrating injuries
- Violence
- Changes in sensation and feeling over the face
- Deformed or uneven face or facial bones
- Difficulty breathing through the nose due to swelling and bleeding
- Double vision
- Missing teeth
- Swelling around the eyes that may cause vision problems
The doctor will perform a physical exam, which may show:
- Bleeding from the nose, eyes, or mouth, or nasal blockage
- Breaks in the skin (lacerations)
- Bruising around the eyes or widening of the distance between the eyes, which may mean injury to the bones between the eye sockets
The following may suggest bone fractures:
- Abnormal sensations on the cheek and irregularities that can be felt
- An upper jaw that moves when the head is still
A CT scan of the head may be done.
TreatmentPatients who cannot function normally or who have significant deformity will need surgery.
The goal of treatment is to:
- Control bleeding
- Create a clear airway
- Fix broken bone segments with titanium plates and screws
- Leave the fewest scars possible
- Rule out other injuries
- Treat the fracture
Treatment should be immediate, as long as the person is stable and there are no neck fractures or life-threatening injuries.
Expectations (prognosis)Patients generally do very well with proper treatment. You will probably look different than you did before your injury. You may need to have more surgery 6 - 12 months later.
ComplicationsGeneral complications include, but are not limited to:
- Bleeding
- Uneven face (asymmetry)
- Infection
- Brain and nervous system (neurologic) complications
- Numbness or weakness
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have a severe injury to your face.
PreventionWear seat belts and use protective head gear when appropriate. Avoid violent confrontations with other people.
What else can I help you with?
What is the medical term meaning paralysis of the eye?
Facial paralysis means paralysis of the facial nerve which supplies the facial muscles. It can result from exposure to cold, virus infection, trauma, tumour, and post operative trauma to nerve during surgery
What has the author William B Irby written?
William B. Irby has written: 'Facial trauma and concomitant problems' -- subject(s): Face, Facial Injuries, Mouth, Surgery, Surgery, oral, Wounds and injuries 'Facial trauma and concomitant problems: evaluation and treatment' -- subject(s): Face, Facial Injuries, Oral Surgery, Surgery, Teeth, Wounds and injuries
What are the limitations of a facial reconstruction?
Facial reconstruction techniques rely on assumptions about tissue depth and muscle structure, so there is a margin of error in the final result. Factors like decomposition, trauma to the face, and lack of relevant reference material can also limit the accuracy of facial reconstructions. Additionally, facial reconstructions are interpretations rather than exact replicas, so they may not capture an individual's unique features accurately.
What causes facial paralysis in a newborn?
Facial paralysis in a newborn can be caused by several factors, including birth trauma, such as pressure on the facial nerve during delivery, particularly in cases of prolonged labor or the use of forceps. It can also result from congenital conditions like congenital facial nerve palsy or syndromes that affect nerve development. Additionally, infections, such as maternal infections during pregnancy, may contribute to facial nerve impairment. In most cases, the paralysis resolves on its own as the baby grows.
How common is facial crps?
Facial Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is relatively rare compared to other forms of CRPS, which typically affect the limbs. While exact prevalence rates for facial CRPS are not well-documented, it is estimated to occur in a small percentage of patients with CRPS overall. Facial CRPS can arise after trauma, surgery, or nerve injury in the facial region, and its diagnosis may be challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions. Overall, further research is needed to better understand its occurrence and characteristics.
What reading material is available on children and sports injuries?
Perkins, Stephen W. "The Incidence of Sports-Related Facial Trauma in Children." Ear, Nose and Throat Journal August 2000.
What are symptoms of leaking spinal fluid?
This is assuming post-op spinal surgery, following a lumbar puncture, or severe back,head trauma... Headache when sitting up that goes away when lying down, obvious leakage of spinal fluid at the surgical/trauma site... In facial/head trauma a runny nose of clear fluid. Usually goes away after several days of bed rest.
Does Lasik surgery affect facial nerves?
The facial nerve is not affected by LASIK. This is a motor nerve that supplies the face and there is no trauma possible to this nerve during LASIK. The sensory nerves to the cornea are affected temporarily by LASIK and there is a relative anesthesia of the surface of the eye which disappears as the cornea heals over several months.
What are the common causes of facial asymmetry and how can it be treated effectively?
Common causes of facial asymmetry include genetics, trauma, dental issues, and developmental abnormalities. Treatment options may include orthodontic treatment, facial surgery, or cosmetic procedures such as fillers or Botox injections to help improve symmetry. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for each individual case.
What are the benefits of using a bicycle helmet for face protection?
Wearing a bicycle helmet can provide protection for your face in case of a fall or accident. It can help prevent injuries such as cuts, bruises, and even more serious facial injuries. By wearing a helmet, you can reduce the risk of facial trauma and protect yourself while riding a bike.
How many people have facial disfigurement?
The prevalence of facial disfigurement varies widely based on the population and the specific causes, such as congenital conditions, trauma, or disease. Estimates suggest that around 1 in 1000 individuals may have some form of facial disfigurement, though this can differ significantly across regions and demographics. Additionally, the World Health Organization notes that millions of people worldwide may experience facial differences due to various factors. Accurate statistics can be challenging to determine due to underreporting and varying definitions of disfigurement.
Facial Surgery: Causes, Treatment and Recovery?
With modern diagnostic methods and advanced surgical techniques, facial surgery can be carefully planned according to each patient's individual condition and treatment needs. If you are searching for Facial Surgery Near Me, Dr Jain's Dental offers personalized evaluation and treatment planning for patients with various oral, jaw, and facial concerns. Common Causes That May Require Facial Surgery Several conditions can lead to the need for facial surgery. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward appropriate treatment. Facial Trauma and Accidents Accidents are among the common reasons for facial injuries. Possible Causes Include: Road traffic accidents Falls Sports-related injuries Workplace accidents Physical trauma Injuries May Affect: Upper or lower jaw Cheekbones Nose Eye socket Midface Facial soft tissues Facial Fractures A strong impact can cause fractures in different facial bones. Common Signs Include: Facial swelling Bruising Pain or tenderness Difficulty opening the mouth Changes in the bite Facial asymmetry Difficulty chewing Jaw Misalignment Problems with the position or development of the jaw can affect both function and facial balance. Patients May Experience: Difficulty chewing Bite problems Jaw discomfort Facial imbalance Speech-related difficulties in certain cases Facial Asymmetry Facial asymmetry occurs when the two sides of the face have noticeable structural differences. Possible Causes Include: Uneven jaw growth Congenital conditions Previous facial trauma Developmental abnormalities Congenital Facial Conditions Some facial structural differences are present from birth. Examples May Include: Cleft lip and palate Jaw development abnormalities Certain facial skeletal deformities Types of Facial Surgery Facial surgery is not a single procedure. Different surgical approaches are used for different conditions. Facial Fracture Surgery This procedure is used to treat certain fractures involving the jaw, cheekbone, eye socket, or other facial bones. Main Goals: Restore bone alignment Support proper healing Improve facial symmetry Restore affected function Corrective Jaw Surgery Corrective jaw surgery is used for certain skeletal jaw abnormalities. It May Help Address: Significant jaw misalignment Certain bite problems Facial skeletal imbalance Some functional difficulties Facial Reconstructive Surgery Reconstructive procedures focus on restoring damaged or abnormal facial structures. They May Be Considered After: Serious facial trauma Certain medical conditions Congenital abnormalities Previous surgical treatment Facial Surgery Treatment Process Treatment generally begins with a detailed assessment. Step 1: Consultation and Examination The surgeon evaluates: Facial structure Jaw position Bite and dental alignment Soft-tissue condition Symptoms and medical history Step 2: Diagnostic Imaging Depending on the condition, imaging may be recommended to assess bones and other structures more accurately. Step 3: Personalized Treatment Plan The treatment plan is developed according to the patient's specific diagnosis and goals. It May Include: Surgical treatment Non-surgical management Medication and supportive care Follow-up appointments Post-operative instructions Step 4: Surgical Procedure The exact surgical technique depends on the condition being treated. The surgeon works to correct the affected structures while taking care to preserve important facial functions.
