Overview

You have broken (fractured) one or more bones in your face. Swelling and bruising from the injury are likely to get worse over the first couple of days. After that, the swelling should steadily improve until it is gone.

If you have bruises on your face, they may change as they heal. The skin may turn from black and blue to green to yellow or brown before it returns to its normal colour.

It may take several weeks for your injury to heal. It's important to go to all doctor visits to make sure the injury heals well.

You heal best when you take good care of yourself. Eat a variety of healthy foods, and don't smoke.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Put ice or a cold pack on your injury for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin.
• Go to all follow-up appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will determine whether you need further treatment, including surgery.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Keep your head elevated when you sleep.
• Eat soft food to decrease jaw pain.
• Do not blow your nose. Dab it with a tissue if you need to.