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Facial Trauma
Overview
At Facial Plastic Surgery at New England Ear, Nose & Throat, we provide expert, compassionate care for patients who have experienced facial trauma. Whether the injury results from an accident, fall, sports injury, or other causes, our goal is to restore both appearance and function using the most advanced reconstructive techniques available. From emergency intervention to long-term revision surgery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Facial trauma reconstruction involves the repair of soft tissue injuries, facial fractures, and disfigurement caused by trauma to the face. These injuries can affect not only appearance, but also essential functions such as breathing, speaking, chewing, and vision. Dr. Shehan’s specialized training in facial anatomy, aesthetics, and reconstructive techniques ensures patients receive the highest standard of care.
Indications
Facial trauma reconstruction is indicated in cases such as:
- Facial bone fractures (nose, cheekbone, jaw, orbit)
- Soft tissue injuries (deep cuts, muscle or nerve damage)
- Complex lacerations or avulsions
- Scarring or deformities from past trauma
- Functional impairments (breathing, speaking, chewing)
- Loss of facial volume or contour
Benefits
- Restores Facial Appearance: Re-establishes pre-injury appearance or improves upon it
- Improves Function: Supports normal activities such as eating, breathing, and vision
- Reduces Scarring and Deformities: Helps avoid long-term disfigurement
- Boosts Confidence: Alleviates self-consciousness after visible injury
- Promotes Healing and Symmetry: Enhances outcomes by correcting misaligned structures
Primary Reconstruction
When facial trauma occurs, timely intervention is critical. Primary reconstruction focuses on:
- Stabilizing fractures (e.g., jaw, nose, cheekbones, or eye sockets)
- Repairing soft tissue lacerations, including nerves, ducts, and muscles
- Restoring airway and function for breathing, eating, and speaking
- Minimizing visible scarring through precise closure techniques
We work closely with emergency teams, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and other specialists to coordinate care during the acute phase of injury.
Secondary Reconstruction
In cases where initial treatment did not fully restore form or function—or where injuries were not treated promptly—secondary (revision) reconstruction. may be necessary. These procedures aim to:
• Improve facial symmetry or contour
• Refine scar appearance or correct disfiguring results
• Rebuild damaged structures using grafts, implants, or flaps
• Restore nerve or muscle function
Secondary reconstruction can often greatly improve both physical and emotional outcomes for trauma survivors.
Each reconstruction plan is individualized, based on the type, severity, and location of the trauma. The process may involve:
- Imaging (CT scans, X-rays) to evaluate fractures and internal injuries
- Surgical realignment of broken bones with plates, screws, or wires
- Microsurgical repair of nerves or ducts
- Scar revision or tissue rearrangement for cosmetic improvement
- Soft tissue grafting or fat transfer to restore volume or shape
Our priority is always to preserve vital function while achieving the best possible aesthetic result.
Techniques Used
We use a wide array of surgical techniques tailored to the specific injury:
• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Aligning and stabilizing facial fractures with titanium plates and screws
• Primary and Secondary Soft Tissue Repair: Precision closure of wounds with attention to skin tension lines and contour
• Scar Revision: Using excision, dermabrasion, or laser treatment to reduce scar visibility
• Microsurgery and Nerve Repair: For restoring sensation and motor function when nerves are involved
• Reconstructive Grafting: Using cartilage, fat, or skin from other areas to rebuild lost or damaged structures
Advanced imaging and 3D planning help ensure precision and optimal symmetry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon should facial trauma be treated?
Ideally, injuries are evaluated within 24–72 hours. However, secondary reconstruction can be done weeks, months, or even years later if needed.
Will there be permanent scarring?
Scarring is often minimized with meticulous surgical technique and proper wound care. We also offer scar revision options for older injuries.
What if I already had treatment but don’t like the outcome?
Secondary reconstruction can address functional and cosmetic concerns from prior surgery or untreated trauma.
Are the results permanent?
Yes, once healing is complete. Some patients may require minor revisions or scar refinements as tissues mature.
What are the risks?
Like any surgical procedure, facial trauma reconstruction carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, poor wound healing, dissatisfaction with results, and need for revision surgery. A comprehensive conversation with your surgeon should address these concerns.
Expert Care for Facial Trauma
If you or a loved one has experienced facial trauma, we’re here to help. Whether it’s an urgent concern or a long-standing issue, our team offers skilled, compassionate care with a focus on both healing and restoration.