Cheekbone fractures are a type of facial injury that can result from trauma, such as traffic accidents or falls, and often have a profound impact on both the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the face. These fractures are unique in the way they present symptoms and require careful attention to ensure both aesthetic recovery and proper functionality. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at cheekbone fractures, their symptoms, treatments, and how surgery—such as orthognathic surgery or double jaw surgery—can play a key role in the healing process.
Symptoms of Cheekbone Fracture
The symptoms of cheekbone fractures often depend on the severity of the injury. Common signs that point to a cheekbone fracture include:
- Pain: Intense pain, especially when the fracture is severe, is often the first noticeable symptom. This is due to the separation of bones and damage to surrounding nerves and soft tissues.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling is common around the affected area, and bruising (hematoma) can often accompany the swelling, affecting the area around the eyes and cheeks.
- Vision Problems: Fractures can impair the muscles responsible for eye movements, leading to symptoms like double vision (diplopia) or limited eye movement.
- Facial Asymmetry: In severe cases, the fracture may cause noticeable asymmetry, particularly if the eye shifts toward the maxillary sinus.
- Limited Mouth Movement: A fractured cheekbone can sometimes cause difficulty in opening and closing the mouth, leading to limited movement.
Other associated symptoms may include tenderness in the malar region, nosebleeds, and possible bleeding into the maxillary sinus.
Treatment Options for Cheekbone Fracture
Treating a cheekbone fracture largely depends on the extent of the injury. Treatment options generally fall into two categories: conservative treatments for mild fractures and surgical interventions for more severe cases.
1. Conservative Treatments
For mild fractures where the bones have not shifted, conservative treatments can often be effective. These treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, painkillers, muscle relaxants, and cold compresses to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
2. Surgical Treatments
In more severe cases where the fracture is affecting functionality or aesthetics, surgery is often required. During surgery, the fractured bones are repositioned into their original anatomical positions, and secured with medical devices like screws, plates, or wires to ensure proper healing.
Cheekbone Fracture Surgery: Techniques and Recovery
When surgery is necessary, two main types of procedures are used for cheekbone fractures: open surgery and closed jaw surgery.
Open Surgery
Open surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are typically made inside the mouth, but if more access is needed, an incision may also be made below the eye. This allows surgeons to precisely realign the bones and secure them in place using medical devices.
Closed Surgery
Closed surgery is a less invasive option, where small incisions (around 0.5 cm) are made to access the fracture site. Surgeons use specialized instruments to reposition the bones without the need for larger incisions. This method often offers a quicker recovery time and reduces the risk of complications.
Risks of Cheekbone Fracture Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, cheekbone fracture surgery carries some risks, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Facial asymmetry
- Visible scarring
- Improper bone healing
However, with proper care and the expertise of an experienced surgeon, many of these risks can be minimized.
Healing and Recovery After Cheekbone Fracture Surgery
Post-surgery, swelling, bruising, and pain are common, but these symptoms will generally subside over time. The incision sites typically heal within 7-10 days, while full healing of the fractured bones may take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks.
Orthognathic Surgery and Double Jaw Surgery: A Deeper Connection
Orthognathic surgery is often used to correct misalignment of the jaw. If the cheekbone fracture is accompanied by jaw alignment issues, procedures like double jaw surgery can be a beneficial option. Double jaw surgery involves repositioning both the upper and lower jaw to correct bite and alignment issues, improving both functionality and aesthetics.
In some cases, an underbite jaw surgery might be required to address misalignments that impact the way the teeth and jaws fit together. These surgeries, often combined with cheekbone fracture surgery, can improve not just the appearance of the face but also the functionality, allowing the patient to chew, speak, and breathe properly.
