Side Effects and Complications
- Bleeding and Hematoma: Bleeding may occur during the surgery. If hemostasis is not thorough, a hematoma may form postoperatively. Smaller hematomas can be absorbed spontaneously, while larger ones may require surgical evacuation.
- Infection: Bacterial infection at the surgical incision site may cause local redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Severe infections can compromise surgical outcomes and wound healing, necessitating timely antibiotic treatment.
- Nerve Injury: Sensory or motor nerves in the face may be damaged during surgery, leading to facial skin numbness, reduced sensation, or impaired facial muscle movement. Most nerve injuries are temporary and gradually recover after surgery, but in rare cases, permanent damage may occur.
- Asymmetry: Due to surgical errors or differences in the patient's own bone development, asymmetry of the zygomatic bones and zygomatic arches may occur postoperatively. Severe asymmetry may require revision surgery for correction.
- Nonunion or Poor Bone Healing: If the osteotomy site is not properly fixed or if the patient has poor healing capacity, nonunion or poor bone healing may occur, affecting surgical outcomes and facial stability.
- Swelling and Bruising: Significant facial swelling and bruising are normal responses to surgical trauma. These generally subside gradually within 1โ2 weeks, but complete resolution of swelling may take 3โ6 months.
- Skin Laxity: Skin traction and tissue removal during surgery may lead to some degree of postoperative skin laxity, particularly in older patients or those with poor skin elasticity. This can be improved through postoperative skincare and rehabilitative therapies.