Facial Trauma Surgery

What is facial trauma?

Facial trauma includes fractured cheekbones, nose or eye socket, and fractured upper or lower jaw. The most common causes of facial trauma are motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, interpersonal violence and falls. Accidental falls in the elderly are a common cause of facial fractures.

Facial fractures can be overlooked when there is bruising and swelling to the face. Left untreated, the result can be unnecessary disfigurement and deformity. Anyone suffering such a trauma should see an oral & maxillofacial specialist as soon as possible.  

Why would you need facial trauma surgery?

You would need surgery to treat broken bones, prevent sunken eyes or cheek bones, and to ensure that you can breathe normally.

What does the procedure involve?

The surgical procedures for facial trauma vary depending on the type of fracture and how serious it is. Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, and bones are brought back into alignment and then fixed in place. You may need titanium plates, screws or wires to hold the bones in place until your body heals.

How long will you take to recover after facial trauma surgery?

The type and extent of the facial fracture will determine how long full recovery will take. You may have bruising and swelling of the face for 2 or 3 weeks after surgery, and you may feel numbness in your face for a few weeks afterwards. Dr Zeb McNamara will advise you about recovery time in your particular case. Additionally, please read our Post Operative Care Instructions for more information about your recovery after General Anaesthetic surgery.

What are the risks of facial trauma surgery?

The risks of surgery depend on the seriousness of the facial trauma. Dr Zeb McNamara will discuss with you the risks of the surgery at your pre-operative consultation.