The cheekbone, also known as the zygomatic bone, plays an important role in the shape, strength, and function of the face. A fracture of the cheekbone can occur after a significant facial injury and may affect appearance, vision, chewing, or jaw movement depending on its severity. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you Break Your Cheekbone are essential to restore both facial function and aesthetics.
Who Is This Article For?
- People who have suffered facial injuries
- Patients with suspected fractures
- Athletes involved in contact sports
- Individuals recovering from facial trauma
- Anyone wanting to understand cheekbone fracture treatment
What is a Cheekbone?
Your cheekbones are actually the bones that form your facial structure. They are located above your jawline, below your eyes, and above your lips. Because they are so important to the structure of your face, they are often broken in serious accidents. It is an extremely sturdy bone, but it can be fractured in a number of ways.
How can you break your Cheek bone?
A person’s zygoma bone is susceptible to a number of different injuries. It can be cut or lacerated by a knife or another sharp object. Bruising, lacerations and breaks are not uncommon in sports either. Cheekbone fractures occur when there is too much pressure placed on the outside of the zygoma bone, leading to it fracturing. If a person’s cheekbone is struck hard enough, it can fracture. In this case, it is essentially hit so hard that it breaks. It may seem odd that a part so close to the surface of the skin can be fractured, but it really just takes a lot of force.
Recovery time
When it is broken, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to almost a year to heal. This timeframe can vary depending on the severity of the break. A broken cheekbone can be tricky to treat, as it is right next to many other sensitive parts of the face. The swelling, bruising and discomfort associated with a fracture can take a while to subside. Because the zygoma bone is so close to other parts of the face, certain fractures can have long-lasting effects on the person’s appearance.
Treating a broken zygoma bone
The first step in treating a broken cheekbone is to determine the severity of the fracture. Doctors will use an X-ray to rule out other, more serious fractures. Treatment for a broken zygomatic bone will vary based on the severity of the fracture.
- If the break is minor, the doctor may simply place a splint or cast on the cheekbone.
- The break is moderate, the doctor may insert a plate over the fracture to stabilise the area.
- If the break is severe, the doctor may put the cheekbone back into place and then insert a plate to keep it in place.
3 Tips to avoid breaking your cheekbone
Wear protective gear during athletic and work activities. and Depending on what you’re doing, it can be easy to break your cheekbone. Protecting your face and head with appropriate gear can help reduce your risk of injury.
Avoid getting hit in the face. Be careful during activities that put you at risk of being hit in the face. Especially during sports like hockey, where there is a high risk of getting hit, you should be extra careful.
Avoid steering clear of high-risk situations. While it is a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, it can also be helpful to face your fears. For example, if you’re afraid of heights, you should definitely avoid going to tall buildings.
Conclusion
A cheekbone fracture can affect facial appearance, chewing, vision, and overall oral function depending on its severity. Early assessment by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon helps ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Whether managed conservatively or surgically, following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments are important for a successful recovery.
Have you experienced a facial injury or suspect a cheekbone fracture?
At Royal Dental Clinics, Mumbai, our oral and maxillofacial surgery team provides comprehensive evaluation, advanced imaging, and personalised treatment to restore facial function and appearance. Book an appointment today for prompt assessment.
FAQs
Can a broken cheekbone heal without surgery?
Yes. Small, non-displaced fractures may heal without surgery if they remain stable and do not affect function or appearance.
How long does recovery take?
Most fractures heal over several weeks, although recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury and treatment provided.
Will a broken cheekbone change my appearance?
Displaced fractures can alter facial symmetry, but appropriate treatment aims to restore the normal facial contour.
When should I seek emergency care?
Seek immediate medical attention if facial trauma causes severe pain, vision changes, heavy bleeding, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.
Which specialist treats cheekbone fractures?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons commonly diagnose and treat cheekbone fractures, often working alongside other specialists when necessary.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for patient education only. Dental treatment should be planned after clinical examination, medical history review, and X-rays or scans where required. Treatment suitability, cost, timeline, healing, and results vary from patient to patient.
