A facial fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in your face. The bones in your face include those around your eye, your cheekbones and the bones of your nose and jaw. A facial fracture may also cause damage to nearby tissue and nerves.
What causes a facial fracture?
Accidents, sports injuries, fights, assaults, etc.
What are the signs and symptoms of a facial fracture?
- Blurred vision, double vision or seeing floaters (spots).
- Decreased eye movement or pain when moving your eyes.
- Eyes that are sunken or not in the normal position.
- Swollen eyelids.
- Bruising on your face.
- Numbness of your upper/ lower lip, side of your nose or cheek.
- Swollen or flattened cheek.
- In lower jaw:
- Inability to open mouth.
- Deviated jaw.
- Nerve pain or changed sensation in that area.
- Clicking of joints.
How is a facial fracture diagnosed?
Based on symptoms and examination, following tests might be required for a conclusive diagnosis:
- CT Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-rays
How is a facial fracture treated?
Treatment is solely dependent on the severity of each situation. Some treatment modalities could be:
- Surgery.
- Immobilisation.
- In certain cases, Orthodontic Treatment.
- Reconstructive Surgery if required.