Topic Overview

Everyone has had a minor facial injury that caused pain, swelling, or bruising at one time or another. Home treatment is usually all that is needed for mild bumps or blows. It may be helpful to know the makeup of the facial bones to better understand facial injuries. See an illustration of the facial bones.

Facial injuries most commonly occur during:

• Sports or recreational activities, such as ice hockey, basketball, rugby, soccer, or martial arts.
• Fights.
• Work-related tasks.
• Work or projects around the home.
• Motor vehicle accidents.
• Accidental falls.
• Everyday activities such as using a curling iron increase the risk for facial burns.

In children, most facial injuries occur during sports or play or are caused by accidental falls. Head injuries often occur at the same time, so it is important to check for symptoms of a head injury.

Minor facial injuries in young children tend to be less severe than similar facial injuries that occur in older children or adults. Young children are less likely to break a facial bone because they have fat pads that cushion their faces and their bones are more flexible. However, young children have a greater risk for animal bites to the face.

A facial injury is potentially more serious when:

• A head injury is also present.
• Moderate to severe bleeding is present.
• Difficulty talking, swallowing, or breathing develops.
• Your face looks misshapen.
• Your face is cut or punctured.
• Changes in your eyes or vision develop.
• Pain, bruising, or swelling persists or becomes severe.
• Signs of infection develop.
• You suspect a facial injury may have been caused by abuse of a child or vulnerable adult.

Treatment for a facial injury may include first aid measures, medication,and in some cases, surgery. Treatment depends on:

• The location, type, and severity of the injury.
• How long ago the injury occurred.
• Your age, health condition, and other activities, such as work, sports, or hobbies.

When you have had a facial injury, it is important to look for signs of other injuries, such as a spinal injury, eye injury, or an injury to the mouth, such as a cut lip or injured tooth. If you suspect other injuries, use the topics in Related Information to evaluate these symptoms.

Review the Emergencies and Check Your Symptoms sections to determine if and when you need to see a health professional.

 Treatment