Facial Trauma

Facial trauma refers to any injury or damage to the structures of the face, including the bones, soft tissues, and muscles. Such injuries can result from various causes, including accidents, sports injuries, falls, or violent encounters. The consequences of facial trauma can range from cosmetic concerns to functional impairments that affect breathing, eating, speaking, and overall quality of life.

At The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of facial trauma. They utilize advanced techniques to ensure optimal outcomes for both cosmetic and functional recovery. 

Types of Facial Trauma in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS

Facial trauma can encompass a wide range of injuries, from minor fractures to more severe damage involving the face's bones, tissues, and organs. Understanding the types of facial trauma is essential for determining the appropriate treatment and addressing any concerns that arise.

Bone Fractures

Facial bone fractures are some of the most common forms of trauma. These fractures may involve the bones of the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), cheekbones (zygomatic bones), or even the nose (nasal bones). Bone fractures can result from car accidents, physical assaults, sports injuries, or falls.

• Nasal Fractures: Broken or fractured noses are among the most frequent types of facial fractures. These injuries can cause significant bleeding and may lead to a deviated septum or breathing difficulties if not properly treated.
• Orbital Fractures: These involve the bones around the eyes and can cause damage to the eye socket (orbit). Orbital fractures may lead to impaired vision or facial disfigurement.
• Maxillary and Mandibular Fractures: These fractures affect the upper and lower jaws, respectively, and can impact the function of the teeth, bite, and facial appearance. Contact us to learn more.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries to the face involve damage to the skin, muscles, and other soft tissues. These injuries can result in lacerations, bruising, or more complex damage that affects the muscles responsible for facial expression and movement.

• Lacerations and Cuts: Facial lacerations are common in traumatic injuries and may involve the scalp, cheeks, lips, or chin. These cuts can range from minor to severe and often require sutures or stitches to ensure proper healing.
• Contusions (Bruising): Contusions occur when blood vessels beneath the skin are damaged, leading to swelling and discoloration. Bruising around the eyes, commonly referred to as a "black eye", is a typical consequence of facial trauma.

Dental Injuries

Dental injuries often accompany facial trauma, especially in cases of accidents or sports-related injuries. These injuries may involve the loss of teeth, tooth fractures, or damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, such as the gums and bone.

• Tooth Avulsion: This occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out of its socket. Prompt treatment is necessary to improve the chances of replanting the tooth successfully.
• Tooth Fractures: Fractured teeth may require treatment such as bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy, depending on the extent of the damage.
• Dislodged Teeth: In some cases, teeth may be partially dislodged or moved out of place, requiring repositioning and stabilization.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Injuries

The temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull, can also be damaged in cases of facial trauma. Injuries to this joint may result in difficulty opening the mouth, jaw pain, or even dislocation.

Eye Injuries

Trauma to the eyes and surrounding structures can cause serious concerns. Injuries can lead to vision impairment, corneal abrasions, or more severe complications such as retinal detachment or orbital fractures.

Causes of Facial Trauma in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS

Facial trauma can occur from various causes, and each case requires a tailored treatment approach. The severity of the injury and its impact on the patient’s overall health will influence the management and recovery process. 

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car accidents are among the leading causes of facial trauma. The force of impact can lead to a variety of injuries, including facial bone fractures, soft tissue damage, and dental injuries. Vehicle occupants are often at risk of sustaining injuries from airbag deployment, broken glass, or the dashboard.

Sports Injuries

Sports such as football, soccer, hockey, and basketball are common sources of facial trauma. Collisions with other players, the ball, or hard surfaces like the ground can lead to fractures, concussions, or soft tissue injuries to the face.

Physical Altercations

Violence, whether in the form of physical fights or assault, often leads to facial injuries. These may include fractures of the nose, jaw, or cheekbones, along with lacerations and bruising.

Falls and Accidents

Falls, particularly in elderly patients, can result in facial trauma, especially if the fall is to the face or head. Common injuries from falls include nasal fractures, dental injuries, and cuts or bruises to the face.

Workplace Accidents

Industrial and construction accidents can lead to facial trauma due to machinery, tools, or falling debris. In these cases, injuries can involve both bone fractures and soft tissue damage.

Animal Bites

Bites from animals, particularly dogs, can cause significant facial injuries. These injuries may involve lacerations, tissue damage, and sometimes fractures, especially around the nose and lips.

Treatment for Facial Trauma

Effective treatment for facial trauma is crucial for both cosmetic restoration and functional recovery. The approach to treatment depends on the type, severity, and location of the injury. Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander utilize a combination of surgical techniques and non-surgical methods to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Initial Assessment and Stabilization

The first step in treating facial trauma is performing an initial assessment to evaluate the extent of the injuries. In some cases, patients may require immediate stabilization to address any life-threatening issues, such as bleeding, airway obstruction, or head injuries. Once the patient’s vital signs are stabilized, the oral surgeons perform a detailed examination of the facial injuries, including imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess bone fractures and soft tissue damage.

Fracture Repair

Fractures in the facial bones, such as those affecting the jaw, cheekbones, or nose, often require surgical intervention. Dr. Thames and Dr. Alexander perform open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), a procedure that involves repositioning the fractured bones and securing them with plates, screws, or wires. This process ensures proper alignment and allows the bones to heal correctly.

• Nasal Fractures: A nasal fracture may require manual realignment (closed reduction) or surgical intervention if the break is severe.
• Maxillary and Mandibular Fractures: The surgeon may use plates, screws, or wiring to stabilize the upper or lower jaw fractures, restoring proper function and appearance.

Soft Tissue Repair

Lacerations and other soft tissue injuries are repaired with sutures to minimize scarring and ensure proper healing. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore the form and function of facial structures that have been severely damaged.

Dental Repair

For patients with dental injuries, such as tooth fractures, dislodged teeth, or tooth avulsion, immediate dental care is essential. Depending on the nature of the injury, the oral surgeon may replant teeth, place dental implants, or perform root canal therapy to preserve the tooth structure. For more extensive injuries, restorative options like bridges or dentures may be considered.

Eye and Vision Care

In cases where eye injuries are involved, a team of specialists, including an ophthalmologist, may be consulted to address any damage to the eyes. Treatment may involve repairing the orbit or addressing retinal or corneal damage.

Post-Operative Care and Rehabilitation 

After the initial treatment, patients will undergo follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common after facial trauma surgery, and pain management, along with oral care instructions, will be provided. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore jaw movement and muscle strength, especially in cases of TMJ injuries or jaw fractures.

Recovery From Facial Trauma 

Recovery from facial trauma varies depending on the severity of the injuries and the type of treatment required. It is important for patients to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth healing process. Full recovery can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, and during this time, patients should avoid strenuous activities that could hinder healing.

Conclusion

Facial trauma can be a life-altering experience, but with the proper treatment, recovery is possible. At The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., our oral surgeons in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, are committed to providing comprehensive care for facial trauma patients. Whether dealing with bone fractures, soft tissue injuries, or dental trauma, they offer advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions to restore both function and aesthetics. If you or a loved one has sustained facial trauma, contact our office to schedule an evaluation and discuss treatment options that best suit your needs.

Experience exceptional oral surgery care at The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., Visit us at our Hattiesburg office, located at 6284 US Highway 98, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, or our Laurel office at 325 South 13th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440. You can also call our Hattiesburg office at (601) 271-2356 or our Laurel office at (601) 425-2356. From dental implants to wisdom teeth removal, our experienced team is ready to restore your smile — schedule your appointment today!