Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Bruised Swelling In Cheek
Question: Hi, my son fell and bruised his cheek, once the swelling and bruising went down he has been left with a dent on his cheek when he smiles and I can feel a small lump under the skin. what can we do to help this heal and will this heal completely?
Brief Answer:
possible fracture of the zygomatic arch
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
As I could understand from your question, I suppose the injury was in the region of zygomatic arch. This bone is very important to facial massive and very prone to fractures.
In first place, it is very important that there is no other complain other than the dent, like numbing and tingling of the face. It means that there is no neurological problem. Fortunately it seems to be just an aesthetical problem.
The best exam to better understand the bone situation at this moment, is the CT scan. This test is important because it will give you answers on most of the question you have on the matter.
Anyway, most of these dents, should improve with time, in a few weeks generally, which is the time needed for the bone XXXXXXX fracture to recompose itself.
There is seldom need for surgery at this point.
But as I said, if it should persist, you will have to begin from a CT scan of the region to better evaluate the zygomatic arch.
Basically, you should not worry. It should pass in a few weeks. If the dent is big, then you should consider a CT scan and a maxillo-facial surgeon consult.
Hope this helps. Greetings
possible fracture of the zygomatic arch
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
As I could understand from your question, I suppose the injury was in the region of zygomatic arch. This bone is very important to facial massive and very prone to fractures.
In first place, it is very important that there is no other complain other than the dent, like numbing and tingling of the face. It means that there is no neurological problem. Fortunately it seems to be just an aesthetical problem.
The best exam to better understand the bone situation at this moment, is the CT scan. This test is important because it will give you answers on most of the question you have on the matter.
Anyway, most of these dents, should improve with time, in a few weeks generally, which is the time needed for the bone XXXXXXX fracture to recompose itself.
There is seldom need for surgery at this point.
But as I said, if it should persist, you will have to begin from a CT scan of the region to better evaluate the zygomatic arch.
Basically, you should not worry. It should pass in a few weeks. If the dent is big, then you should consider a CT scan and a maxillo-facial surgeon consult.
Hope this helps. Greetings
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
