Facial Fractures

A severe blow to the face can result in a fracture of a facial bone, with or without injury to the overlying tissues.

Plastic surgeons are trained in dealing with these potentially complex injuries, as well as any associated lacerations to the facial tissues.

The most common types of fractures encountered are those involving the nasal bones or the cheekbones. These fractures are usually the result of a motor vehicle accident, assault, or a sporting injury.  Fractures of these bones can result in a significant alteration in appearance if they are not treated adequately.

Fractures of the bones of the face are treated in a manner similar to the fractures in other parts of the body. The specific form of treatment is determined by various factors which include the location of the fracture, the severity of the fracture, and the age and general health of the patient. When an arm or a leg is fractured, a "cast" is often applied to stabilise the bone and allow for proper healing. Since a cast cannot be placed on the face, other means have been developed to stabilise facial fractures.

One of these options involves wiring the jaws together for certain fractures of the upper and/or lower jaw. However, certain other types of fractures of the jaw are best treated and stabilised by the surgical placement of small "plates and screws" at the involved site. This technique of treatment can often allow for healing and precludes the necessity of having the jaws wired together.

This technique is called "rigid fixation" of a fracture. The relatively recent development and use of "rigid fixation" has profoundly improved the recovery period for many patients by allowing them to return to normal function more quickly.

Surgery to correct a fracture of the face will usually take place within two weeks of the injury – enough time to allow the swelling to go down and enable an accurate assessment of the injury, but also before the bones begin to heal in the wrong position.  

Please ask your doctor for further information.