Facial fractures are broken bones in the face.
- This kind of a fracture can involve bones of the upper jaw, lower jaw, cheeks, and nose or eye sockets.
- A closed fracture is one in which the skin is not broken.
- An open or compound fracture involves laceration of the skin.
- Most children's facial fractures heal rapidly with very few complications.
- The majority of all facial fractures involve the lower jaw.
- The nose and the cheekbones-because of their prominence-are also damaged frequently.
If you suspect that your child has a facial fracture, seek medical attention immediately.
Facial fractures can result breathing impairment, since the airway can be blocked by bone fragments, swollen tissue, blood clots, dislodged teeth or pieces of debris.
The surgeons at Boston Children's Hospital's General Surgery Program understand how traumatic a facial fracture can be. The good news is that most facial fractures in children heal relatively quickly and without complications. Our experienced staff is here to help heal your child and provide support in this upsetting time.