Maxillofacial Surgery: Expert Care for Facial Injuries Explained

Hey there! Welcome to our guide on maxillofacial surgery, the speciality of medicine that deals with facial injuries. In this post we will cover the common causes of facial injuries, types of facial injuries, diagnostic tools in maxillofacial surgery, treatment options, recovery after surgery, why you should see an expert, benefits of maxillofacial surgery, risks and complications to watch out for and how to choose a maxillofacial surgeon.

What is Maxillofacial Surgery

Maxillofacial surgery, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a speciality of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and management of injuries and diseases of the face, jaws, mouth and neck. It combines elements of dentistry and medicine to provide complete care for patients with facial injuries.

Maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained professionals who have completed both dental and medical degrees and have undergone specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. They have a deep understanding of the complex anatomy of the face and are skilled in surgical procedures to restore function and aesthetics.

Common Causes of Facial Injuries

Facial injuries can occur due to various accidents, trauma or medical conditions. Some of the common causes are:

1. Motor vehicle accidents: Road accidents can cause facial fractures, lacerations and soft tissue injuries.
2. Sports injuries: Contact sports like football, boxing and hockey can cause facial trauma including fractures and dislocations.
3. Falls: Accidental falls, especially from heights, can cause facial fractures and other injuries.
4. Assaults: Physical fights can cause severe facial injuries including fractures and soft tissue damage.
5. Work related accidents: Certain jobs like construction or manufacturing carry a higher risk of facial injuries due to machinery, tools or hazardous environment.
6. Medical conditions: Some medical conditions like tumors or infections may require maxillofacial surgery for treatment or reconstruction.

Types of Facial Injuries

Facial injuries can be minor or complex. Here are some of them:

1) Facial Fractures

Facial fractures are the breaking or cracking of bones in the face. The most common affected bones are the nose, cheekbones, jaw and eye sockets. These can cause pain, swelling, deformity and difficulty in breathing or eating.

2) Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are damage to the skin, muscles and other tissues in the face. This can include lacerations, contusions and abrasions. These may require sutures, wound cleaning and other treatments to promote healing and prevent infection.

3) Dental Injuries

Facial trauma can also cause dental injuries like broken or knocked out teeth. Maxillofacial surgeons are trained to deal with these dental injuries along with the facial injury.

4) Facial Deformities

Certain congenital conditions or developmental abnormalities can cause facial deformities. Maxillofacial surgery can correct these deformities and restore function and aesthetics.

Diagnostic Tools in Maxillofacial Surgery

Maxillofacial surgeons use various diagnostic tools to assess and diagnose facial injuries. These may include:

1. X-rays: X-rays show detailed images of the bones in the face to identify fractures or other abnormalities.
2. CT scans: CT scans show cross sectional images of the face to see the bones, soft tissues and blood vessels.
3. MRI scans: MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to show detailed images of the soft tissues in the face to identify damage or abnormalities.
4. Panoramic radiographs: Panoramic radiographs show a wide view of the entire face including the teeth, jaws and sinuses.
5. 3D imaging: Advanced technologies like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) can create 3D images of the face to aid in treatment planning and surgical guidance.
   

Treatment for Facial Injuries

Treatment for facial injuries depends on the type and severity of the injury. Maxillofacial surgeons may use various techniques and procedures:

Reduction and Fixation

For facial fractures, the surgeon may do reduction and fixation which is realigning the broken bones and securing them in place using plates, screws or wires. This will promote proper healing and restore facial symmetry.

Soft Tissue Repair

Soft tissue injuries may require suturing or other methods to repair the damaged skin or muscles. This will minimize scarring and restore function.

Dental Restoration

If dental injuries are involved, the maxillofacial surgeon may work with a dentist to restore or replace damaged teeth. This can include dental implants, bridges or dentures.

Reconstructive Surgery

In cases of severe facial deformities or extensive injuries, reconstructive surgery may be needed. This is restoring both form and function through various methods like bone grafting, tissue transfer or microvascular surgery.

Post Op Care after Maxillofacial Surgery

Post op care after maxillofacial surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual patient. However here are some general guidelines:

1. Pain management: The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage the discomfort during the initial recovery period.
2. Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising is common after facial surgery. Apply cold compresses and elevate the head to reduce these symptoms.
3. Diet: Depending on the extent of the surgery, the patient may need to be on a soft or liquid diet for a period of time to allow for proper healing.
4. Follow up appointments: Follow up appointments with the maxillofacial surgeon is essential to monitor the healing and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
5. Physical activity restrictions: Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities or contact sports for a period of time to avoid further injury or complications.

Why Choose an Expert

When it comes to facial injuries, choosing an expert maxillofacial surgeon is key. They have the knowledge, skills and experience to diagnose and treat a wide range of facial injuries. By choosing an expert in the field, you can be assured of the best care and results.

Maxillofacial surgeons work with other healthcare professionals like dentists, orthodontists and plastic surgeons to give comprehensive and coordinated care to their patients. They understand the unique challenges and complexities of facial injuries and can handle even the most complex cases.

Benefits of Maxillofacial Surgery

Maxillofacial surgery has many benefits for patients with facial injuries:

1. Function restored: Surgery can restore normal function like eating, speaking and breathing properly.
2. Aesthetics improved: Facial injuries can cause significant changes in appearance. Maxillofacial surgery can restore facial symmetry and enhance aesthetics, boost self confidence and overall well being.
3. Better quality of life: By fixing facial injuries, maxillofacial surgery can improve overall quality of life for patients and get them back to their normal activities and routines.
4. Holistic care: Maxillofacial surgeons provide holistic care, addressing both functional and aesthetic aspects of facial injuries. They work with other specialists to ensure a team approach to treatment.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks and complications with maxillofacial surgery. These may include:

1. Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site which can be managed with proper wound care and antibiotics.
2. Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after surgery but excessive bleeding may require medical attention.
3. Nerve damage: Facial surgery carries a risk of nerve damage which can result in temporary or permanent numbness, tingling or weakness in the face.
4. Scarring: Depending on the extent of the surgery, scarring may occur. Maxillofacial surgeons will endeavour to minimize scarring and use techniques to promote optimal wound healing.
5. Anaesthesia risks: General anaesthesia has its own risks but these are minimal and managed by the anaesthesia team.

Choosing the Right Maxillofacial Surgeon

When choosing a maxillofacial surgeon consider:

1. Qualifications and experience: Make sure the surgeon is board certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery and has many years of experience in facial injuries.
2. Reputation and patient reviews: Research the surgeon’s reputation and read patient reviews to get an idea of their expertise and patient satisfaction.
3. Hospital affiliations: Check if the surgeon is affiliated with good hospitals or surgical centres, this shows their commitment to quality care.
4. Communication and rapport: Choose a surgeon who listens to your concerns, explains the treatment options clearly and makes you feel comfortable throughout the process.
5. Accessibility and support: Consider the surgeon’s availability for appointments and the support staff and resources available to you during your treatment journey.

In summary, maxillofacial surgery is the key to expert care for facial injuries. From diagnosis to treatment to recovery, these experts can handle all types of facial injuries and provide holistic care to restore function and aesthetics. By getting expert care and choosing the right maxillofacial surgeon, you can be confident of good results and better quality of life.

Get Expert Maxillofacial Care at Genç Dental

Looking for facial injuries care? Look no further than Genç Dental®.  Our oral health polyclinic established in 2015 has grown to serve not only our local community but also patients from abroad. With a team of specialist doctors for every treatment including maxillofacial surgery we are committed to give you the best care. Our academically inclined doctors always stay updated with the latest in dental health. Book a consultation and start your journey to a healthy smile contact us today.