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WhatsApp UsMaxillofacial surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the face, jaws, mouth, and surrounding structures. From correcting jaw discrepancies and facial asymmetry to treating facial injuries, congenital deformities, and other structural concerns, each treatment plan requires a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and function. My approach begins with listening to each patient's concerns, carefully evaluating their needs, and recommending a personalized treatment plan that balances facial aesthetics, function, and long-term health.
I believe successful maxillofacial care goes beyond surgical technique. It requires careful planning, precision, clear communication, and a commitment to patient safety at every stage. Whether treatment involves corrective jaw surgery, facial reconstruction, or management of a congenital condition, my goal is to help patients make informed decisions and feel supported throughout their journey. Every face is unique, and I strive to deliver individualized care focused on functional improvement, natural-looking results, and overall well-being.
Broken Facial Bones
The face isn't one bone. It's 14 of them — engineered together like the trusses of a railway bridge. They give your face shape, protect your eyes and brain, let you bite, let you breathe, let you smile. When we say "broken facial bones" or maxillofacial fracture, we mean any one — or more — of those 14 bones has cracked, displaced, or shattered. Sometimes it's a clean break. Sometimes three or four bones are involved at once (we call this a panfacial fracture). The medical world groups it under one name: maxillofacial trauma.
Anatomy & Surgical Foundations
- 1. Structural Tissue Assessment Maxillofacial surgery focuses on the anatomy and reconstruction of the facial skeleton, jaws, oral cavity, and associated soft tissues. The major anatomical structures include the maxilla (upper jaw), mandible (lower jaw), zygomatic bones (cheekbones), nasal bones, and the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), which connect the lower jaw to the skull. Important surrounding structures include facial muscles, nerves, blood vessels, teeth, and salivary glands. Understanding the relationships between these structures is essential for preserving facial sensation, movement, chewing function, speech, and overall facial symmetry.
- 2. Surgical Precision & Symmetry The surgical foundation of maxillofacial procedures relies on a detailed clinical examination, assessment of facial proportions, evaluation of dental occlusion, and, when indicated, appropriate imaging. Depending on the condition, treatment may involve corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery), fracture repair, reconstruction of congenital deformities, or management of facial and oral pathology. Surgical planning considers bone alignment, tooth position, soft-tissue balance, airway function, and the location of important nerves and blood vessels. The objective is to restore anatomical relationships while maintaining or improving facial function and appearance.
- 3. Core Muscle & Fascia Restoration Successful maxillofacial surgery requires precision, individualized planning, and a comprehensive understanding of both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Techniques may involve repositioning the jawbones, stabilizing fractures with fixation devices, reconstructing damaged tissues, or correcting developmental abnormalities. Safe treatment depends on careful tissue handling, preserving vital anatomical structures, preventing infection, and appropriate postoperative monitoring. Depending on the procedure, recovery may include dietary modifications, oral hygiene measures, physiotherapy, orthodontic treatment, or continued specialist follow-up to support healing and long-term stability.
If you only read this table, you'll know more than most patients walking into their first consultation.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| What are "broken facial bones"? | Fractures of any of the 14 facial bones — jaw (upper/lower), cheekbone, nose, eye socket, and forehead bone. Medical name: maxillofacial fractures. |
| Most common types we treat | Mandible (lower jaw), Nasal bone, Zygoma (cheekbone), Orbital floor (eye socket), Maxilla (upper jaw / Le Fort), Frontal sinus, TMJ trauma. |
| sign it's a fracture, not a bruise | Your bite doesn't line up, your vision is double, your cheek feels flat, or there's a step you can feel along the bone. Bruising alone is not a fracture. |
| When to rush to the ER (red flags) | Clear fluid from the nose/ear, loss of consciousness, double vision, breathing difficulty, severe bleeding, can't open the mouth, neck pain. Don't wait. |
| Which doctor treats this? | A plastic & reconstructive surgeon trained in maxillofacial trauma — like a craniofacial or microvascular-trained surgeon. Not a dentist alone. Not a general orthopaedic. Call us. |
| Imaging needed | CT scan with 3D reconstruction is the gold standard. X-rays miss a lot. |
| Surgery or no surgery? | Depends on displacement, function (bite, vision, breathing), and aesthetics. Many fractures need surgery within 7–14 days. Some don't need any. |
| Surgery name (the technical one) | ORIF — Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, usually with titanium plates and screws. |
| Plates — do they stay forever? | Yes, in 95% of cases. They're inert, MRI-safe, and you won't feel them. |
| Will I look the same? | If treated within the golden 2-week window by a trained plastic surgeon — yes, in most cases. Late repairs are harder. |
| Total recovery time | Bone healing: 6–8 weeks. Functional recovery: 3–6 months. Full settling: up to a year. |
| Cost in Vijayawada vs Metro | 40–60% lower at Pratap Hospital for the same surgical quality you get in tier 1 cities. You’ll get a customised quote within 24 hrs after your CT review. |
Maxillofacial surgery addresses conditions affecting the face, jaws, mouth, and surrounding structures. It may be recommended to correct jaw misalignment, treat facial fractures, reconstruct congenital deformities, manage oral and facial pathology, or improve chewing and other functional concerns. Candidacy depends on the diagnosis, severity, overall health, and the specific procedure required. A patient may be considered a suitable candidate when they: Have a clearly identified facial, jaw, or oral condition that may benefit from surgical treatment. Have undergone an appropriate clinical examination and any necessary dental imaging or other investigations. Are medically fit for the proposed procedure and anesthesia, or have a suitable plan to manage relevant health conditions. Understand the potential benefits, risks, limitations, and alternatives to surgery. Have realistic expectations regarding functional improvement, facial appearance, and recovery. Can follow postoperative instructions and attend recommended follow-up appointments. For corrective jaw surgery, dental occlusion, jaw growth, orthodontic preparation, and skeletal maturity may also influence the timing of treatment.
✓ Good Candidates
- Medical stability: Relevant health conditions have been assessed and appropriately managed.
- Diagnostic assessment: Clinical examinations and necessary imaging have established the treatment plan.
- Infection control: Active infections that could compromise elective surgery have been treated or appropriately addressed.
- Anesthesia assessment: The patient has been evaluated for the planned anesthesia and procedure.
- Procedure-specific readiness: Dental health, orthodontic preparation, bone development, or other requirements have been addressed where relevant.
- Informed consent: The patient, or the parent or legal guardian when appropriate, understands the proposed treatment and recovery process.
- Postoperative planning: Pain management, nutrition, wound care, rehabilitation, and follow-up arrangements are in place as required.
✕ When to Wait or Reconsider
- Active infection: Uncontrolled oral, dental, skin, or systemic infections may increase the risk of complications.
- Uncontrolled medical conditions: Significant cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, or other health problems may require stabilization.
- Increased anesthesia or bleeding risk: Further assessment may be needed when medications, bleeding disorders, or other factors increase procedural risk.
- Poor nutritional status or impaired healing: Nutritional deficiencies or other healing concerns may need to be addressed before elective reconstruction.
- Incomplete diagnostic evaluation: Additional imaging, dental assessment, or specialist consultation may be necessary.
- Insufficient skeletal maturity: Some elective corrective jaw procedures may need to wait until growth is sufficiently complete.
- Inadequate postoperative preparation: Necessary support, rehabilitation, or follow-up arrangements may need to be organized first.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Clinical Assessment
The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's facial structure, jaws, teeth, bite alignment, oral health, and presenting concerns. The surgeon reviews the patient's medical and dental history, previous treatments, symptoms, and treatment goals. This assessment helps determine whether surgery is appropriate and which approach may best address the condition.
Step 2: Diagnostic Imaging and Treatment Planning
Depending on the diagnosis, investigations may include dental X-rays, panoramic imaging, CT scans, or three-dimensional imaging. These assessments help identify bone fractures, jaw discrepancies, facial asymmetry, or other structural abnormalities. The surgeon uses the findings to develop an individualized plan that considers facial anatomy, dental function, important nerves and blood vessels, and the desired outcome.
Step 3: Preoperative Preparation
Before surgery, the patient undergoes the necessary medical evaluation and anesthesia assessment. The team optimizes relevant medical conditions, reviews medications, and completes any required dental or orthodontic preparation. Before obtaining informed consent, the surgeon explains the procedure, potential complications, expected recovery, and postoperative care requirements.
Step 4: Anesthesia and Surgical Procedure
The type of anesthesia depends on the procedure, its complexity, and the patient's needs. Maxillofacial surgery may involve repositioning the jawbones, stabilizing facial fractures, reconstructing damaged tissues, or removing selected abnormal tissue. The surgeon follows the planned technique while protecting important anatomical structures and maintaining or restoring facial function.
Step 5: Surgical Closure and Immediate Monitoring
After the planned correction, the surgical site is assessed and closed or stabilized as appropriate. Following surgery, the patient is monitored for pain, bleeding, swelling, airway concerns, and other potential complications. The care team provides instructions for wound care, oral hygiene, medication use, nutrition, and activity restrictions.
Step 6: Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and the patient's overall health. Follow-up appointments allow the surgeon to monitor healing, assess facial movement and sensation, evaluate bite alignment when relevant, and identify complications early. During recovery, patients may need a modified diet, oral hygiene measures, physiotherapy, or orthodontic treatment.
| Timeline | Expected Sensation | Activity Allowed | Garment Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 0 – 2 | Tightness & mild swelling | Light walking indoors, rest in elevated posture | |
| Day 3 – 7 | Peak swelling subsiding | Desk work from home, gentle walks | |
| Week 2 – 3 | 60% swelling resolved | Return to office, driving, social visits | |
| Week 4 – 6 | 85% final shape visible | Gym, yoga, swimming cleared after review | |
| Month 3 – 6 | Final refined contours | Unrestricted activity and swimwear |
We believe in complete pricing transparency with no hidden theatre or consumable surprises.
| Procedure Variant | Cost in Vijayawada (₹) | Cost in Mumbai / Bangalore (₹) | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Closed nasal reduction | ₹35,000 – ₹70,000 | ₹1,75,000 – ₹2,75,000 | Day-care, twilight sedation, garment, 6-month follow-up |
| Single mandible ORIF | ₹85,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 | Surgery, anesthesia, 1 night stay, garment kit, 1-year follow-up |
| Zygoma (cheekbone) ORIF | ₹90,000 – ₹1,75,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 | Comprehensive cervicofacial redraping, private suite care |
| Orbital floor reconstruction | ₹1,10,000 – ₹2,00,000 | ₹1,75,000 – ₹2,75,000 | |
| Le Fort II / III repair | ₹2,25,000 – ₹4,50,000+ | 6,50,000 – 8,00,000 |
Want a personalized quote for your specific anatomy?
Get My Itemized QuoteQ1. How long after my accident can I still get surgery and look the same?
The "golden window" is 7 to 14 days after injury for most fractures. Within this period, bones haven't started healing in the wrong position, swelling has settled enough for surgery, and outcomes are excellent. Beyond 3 weeks, surgery is still possible but harder — we often need to re-break the bone to reposition it. Don't wait.
Q2. Will I have visible scars on my face?
In about 90% of facial fracture surgeries, we use hidden incisions — inside the mouth, inside the lower eyelid, in the hairline, or in natural skin creases. There's no visible scar. For the rare case where an external incision is necessary (severe injuries, certain forehead fractures), we use plastic-surgery closure techniques so the scar fades to barely visible by 6–9 months.
Q3. Do the titanium plates stay in forever?
Yes, in 95% of patients. Titanium is biocompatible, MRI-safe, and you won't feel it or set off airport scanners. We only remove plates if they become symptomatic — about 1 in 20 cases.
Q4. Will the numbness in my face go away?
Most numbness improves significantly over 6 to 12 months as nerves regenerate (at about 1mm per day). Small patches of residual numbness can persist long-term in some patients but are usually mild and rarely bothersome. We discuss your specific nerve injury risk before surgery.
Q5. Can my facial fracture be treated without surgery?
Yes, for some fractures — non-displaced fractures, stable nasal fractures, certain condylar (TMJ area) fractures, and selected mandible fractures with a normal bite. About 30% of facial fractures don't need surgery. We never operate when we don't have to.
Q6. How much does facial fracture surgery cost in Vijayawada vs Hyderabad or Bangalore?
At Pratap Hospital, you'll typically pay 40–60% less than at a Tier-1 metro hospital for the same procedure, with the same or better surgical expertise. Range: ₹35,000 (closed nasal reduction) to ₹7,00,000+ (panfacial reconstruction). Full itemized quote provided after CT review.
Q7. My child broke his face in a school accident. Is the surgery the same as for adults?
No — children heal faster and remodel bone, so we operate less aggressively. Many paediatric fractures heal with observation, soft diet, and gentle physiotherapy. When surgery is needed, we use resorbable plates (that dissolve over 18–24 months) so we don't leave permanent metal in a growing face. Children with facial fractures need a paediatric-aware plastic surgeon — please don't go to a general centre.
Q8. I had a facial fracture treated badly 6 months ago. Can it be revised?
Yes, but it's harder than getting it right the first time. Revision surgery involves re-breaking the bone (osteotomy), repositioning, and re-fixation. Outcomes are still excellent in experienced hands. We do revision cases regularly — bring all your previous reports, scans, and photos to the consultation.
Q9. I had a road accident and want to claim insurance. Do you help with paperwork?
Yes. Our patient coordinator handles cashless insurance, motor vehicle accident (MVA) claims, third-party insurance, and corporate insurance documentation. For medico-legal cases (FIR, police report), we provide all required medical certifications, photographs, and reports.
Q10. How do I book a consultation if I'm scared to come in person or call?
Many patients feel this way — especially after a traumatic injury. The easiest way is WhatsApp. Just send a message saying "I need help" or "I had an accident, please advise." If you have one, send your CT scan or even a photo of your face. Our team will reply within hours. Dr. Pratap personally reviews every case. You decide if and when to come in. No pressure, no obligation, no judgment
"At 52, I hated how my neck looked in photos at family functions. Dr. Pratap performed a neck lift and lipo. The result looks completely natural — friends tell me I look refreshed and energetic."
