Reconstructive Surgery for Orofacial Injuries Singapore

Reconstructive Surgery for Orofacial Injuries

Reconstructive surgery involves many surgical procedures depending on the intensity of the injury. The aim of the reconstructive surgery for orofacial injuries is to restore the appearance of the face.

Patients who have suffered from facial deformities due to accidents are traumatized. They are unable to lead a normal life by how the face appears and can suffer depression and low self-esteem. For this reason, dentists have embraced facial reconstruction to help such people lead a normal life. The surgeries are usually complex and can take more than one surgery. Our dentists are highly trained and will walk with you to the end of the treatment.

Some clients come for cosmetic surgical procedures such as face lifting and liposuction. However, this reconstructive surgery is available under cosmetic surgical services. This article will be focusing on reconstructive surgery for orofacial injuries.

How the Procedure Works

The intensity of the surgery depends on the complexity of the injury. Reshaping the head, neck, and face to improve the appearance is not a one-day surgical procedure, especially if the injury is intense. The primary goal of the surgery is to restore the normal shape of the face, improve its functionality, and boost your self-esteem hence increase the quality of your life. Orofacial surgery can also solve breathing problems (apnea) and snoring issues.

The surgeon will evaluate the injury before commencing with the surgery. The medical history will be evaluated to know what type of surgery you will need to achieve the best results. For instance, if you experience a deep burn on your face and it affects the mobility of the muscle, the dentist will know how to go with the surgery. Ignoring the details will affect the success of the surgery. In addition, for cancer and diabetic patients, the surgical wound will need more time to heal. Such information will help to achieve the best reconstruction goal.

Examples of Orofacial Reconstruction Surgery

Palate and cleft lip surgery: It is mainly performed on children to help restore the size of the mouth, to improve speech, and to restore the normal appearance of the face.
Removal of skin cancer surgery: This surgery involves the removal of cancer affected skin to allow the restoration and growth of new skin.
Burns reconstruction surgery: This surgery aims at restoring the cells and face shape that has been destroyed by burns. The burns can be hot water, steam or fire burns. When the face is burned beyond a certain degree, it can only be restored through a surgical procedure.
Tissues transfer surgery: Face reconstruction surgery may require tissue transfer to improve the shape of the face. The tissue that is transferred includes muscle, nerve, fat, bone, and skin.

How is the Recovery

The surgery causes bruises and swelling that are noticeable. Depending on how complex the surgery was, the healing period ranges from 2 weeks to several months. During the recovery period, you are given painkillers to take and antibiotics. You are also scheduled for an appointment to check the recovery process.

The patient is always prepared for what to expect after the surgery and the estimated recovery time.

Risks of the Reconstructive Surgery

Just like any other type of surgery, reconstructive surgery for orofacial injuries has similar risks. The risks include excessive bleeding, swelling, infection, poor healing of the wound, after-effects of anesthesia, and fluid or blood accumulation under the skin. These risks can be reduced by not taking tobacco and alcohol.

This is why we recommend regular visits after the surgery to monitor the healing process. It will help to minimize the long-term effects of these risks. If you notice any unusual outcome, it is important to let your doctor know immediately.

Our dentists are ready for you. Book an appointment today and learn about different reconstructive surgery. Our dentist will advise you on the best procedure for you.