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Introduction
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Consultant maxillofacial surgeons deal with the diagnosis and
treatment of all aspects of facial skin and bone injury.
Facial injury can be distressing but with proper attention and time, the
appearance and function improves considerably and returns towards normal. The
maxillofacial surgeons and nursing staff are experienced in looking after
patients with facial injuries and will help you through this difficult time. If
you have any concerns about the injury and its treatment, please contact your
consultant maxillofacial surgeon.
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Lacerations
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Stitches on the face need to be removed after 5 - 7 days.
Stitches used inside the mouth usually dissolve. It is very important to keep
the mouth clean. We recommend warm salty mouthwashes 3 - 4 times a day, as well
as normal tooth brushing.
Any cuts to the skin will leave a scar however small. Unfortunately there is no
such thing as invisible mending!
Scars take 9 - 12 months to 'settle down'. They go through various stages and
become red, hard and raised initially before becoming lighter in colour and
softening with time.
You may be prescribed some ointment. This is to be used on the wound 3 - 4
times per day until the stitches are taken out. Massaging hand or face cream
over the area once the skin has healed may also help soften the area sooner.
If after 12 months you are unhappy with the appearance then you can discuss the
possibility of further treatment to improve facial scars with your consultant
maxillofacial surgeon.
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Facial Fractures
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You will be told if you have any fractures of the facial bones.
Bruising and swelling usually takes two to three weeks to settle, so it is
important that you are patient.
Any numbness or altered sensation to the face due to the injury often takes a
number of weeks or maybe even months to disappear completely. Very
occasionally, only partial or no recovery occurs.
Plates used to repair facial fractures are made of titanium. They are designed
to be left in. Don't worry; they do not set off metal detectors. Very
occasionally they may need to be removed later.
If you have a cheek bone fracture, you should not blow your nose for ten days
following the injury. If you do, you may force air from your sinus under the
skin, which can result in facial swelling around the eyes.
Avoid knocks/bumps to the area for 6 - 8 weeks until the fracture has healed.
When you are prescribed antibiotics it is important to finish the course. If
you have problems with the antibiotics please get in touch with your GP or
contact the Hospital.
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Trauma to the teeth
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If your tooth or teeth have been knocked out or displaced, then you
may have a splint fitted. This usually stays on for 2 weeks whilst the bone
heals. After it is removed the affected teeth may still be slightly loose so
avoid placing too much force on them. The injured teeth may become discoloured
which may require removal of the pulp ('nerve'). Your dentist will be able to
treat you should this occur.
If any of your teeth have been chipped or broken you will need to see your own
dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Until then it is best to avoid food
and drink that is very hot or very cold as they may cause pain in the damaged
teeth.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your consultant
Maxillofacial surgeon.
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