Facial Bone Fractures: Diagnosis, Repair Methods, and Surgical Process

The facial area is highly vulnerable to trauma and therefore frequently encounters bone fractures. Especially fractures of the cheekbone (zygomatic bone), nasal bone, mandible, and maxilla may occur due to traffic accidents, sports injuries, or falls.

The main goal of treatment is to repair the facial bones in their correct anatomical position and to avoid leaving permanent scars or deformities both functionally and aesthetically. In addition, when facial bone fractures are detected, patients must also be evaluated comprehensively for intracranial, cervical, thoracic, and abdominal trauma. Ruling out life-threatening conditions is the priority in this process.

Orbital Fractures
When the bones around the eye are fractured, symptoms such as double vision (diplopia), restricted eye movements, and sunken eye appearance (enophthalmos) may occur. This condition can affect both visual function and aesthetic appearance. Depending on the severity of the fracture, nerve or soft tissue damage around the eye may also develop.

Diagnosis and Evaluation
In diagnosing facial bone fractures, conventional X-rays can sometimes provide information, but computed tomography (CT) is generally preferred for detailed evaluation. This allows the type, location, and relation of the fracture to surrounding tissues to be clearly identified.

Surgical Planning and Treatment Methods
The treatment plan is determined based on the location and severity of the fracture as well as the general condition of the patient. In some cases, medical follow-up and rest may be sufficient, while displaced fractures affecting function or aesthetics require surgical intervention.

Surgical approaches aim to leave no scar or minimal scarring. If there is an existing trauma-related incision in a suitable location, it can be used for surgical access. Otherwise, approaches are made through the mouth, eyelid, or scalp to avoid visible scars.

During surgery, the fractured bones are stabilized with titanium plates and screws. These materials are biocompatible and usually do not need to be removed.

Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes
Facial bone fractures are significant not only cosmetically but also functionally. Particularly in maxillary or mandibular fractures, dental occlusion can be disturbed, negatively affecting chewing, speech, and facial balance. Similarly, asymmetric fractures can cause facial asymmetry. The goal of surgery is to restore both aesthetic integrity and functional occlusion.

Recovery and Aftercare
Postoperatively, swelling and bruising of the face are normal and usually resolve within a few weeks. In orbital surgeries, temporary double vision or restricted eye movements may occur, but these typically improve over time.

From a nutritional perspective, patients with jaw fractures are recommended liquid diets in the initial days, followed by soft foods depending on recovery. In cases of postoperative bleeding or leakage, tampon applications and medical support are applied.