Post-Laser Surgery for Oral Leukoplakia: Is Facial Swelling Normal?

After the laser surgery for oral leukoplakia on September 22, the left cheek, jawbone, and area below the left ear are swollen?

After undergoing laser surgery for oral leukoplakia on September 22, I noticed swelling on the left side of my cheek extending to the jawbone and below the left ear.
I had the procedure done on both sides, but upon returning home, I realized that the left side of my face was swollen.
Since it coincided with the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, the only option was to go to the emergency room.
I would like to know if facial swelling after laser treatment for oral leukoplakia is normal.
I had a similar procedure before, but I did not experience any facial swelling then.
I am certain that the swelling occurred after the surgery, and I am unsure if this is normal or if I should seek emergency care.

Houzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/22

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

There is some inflammation.
If you experience difficulty opening your mouth or have a fever, please go to the emergency room.
Otherwise, you can start taking antibiotics and return for a follow-up.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/09/22

More Info

After undergoing laser surgery for oral leukoplakia, it is not uncommon to experience some degree of facial swelling, particularly in the areas surrounding the surgical site. The swelling you are observing on the left side of your face, extending from your cheek to your jawbone and down to the area beneath your left ear, can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical procedure.

Firstly, laser surgery, while minimally invasive, still involves the manipulation of tissues in the oral cavity. This manipulation can lead to localized inflammation as the body responds to the surgical trauma. Inflammation is a natural part of the healing process, and it often manifests as swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. The fact that you are experiencing swelling only on one side may indicate that the surgical procedure was more extensive on that side or that your body is reacting differently to the trauma on that side compared to the other.

It is also important to consider that swelling can be exacerbated by factors such as fluid retention, the position of your head during and after the procedure, and even your activity level in the days following the surgery. If you were lying down for extended periods or not elevating your head, this could contribute to increased swelling.

In your case, since you mentioned that you did not experience swelling during your previous laser surgery, it is possible that the extent of the procedure this time was greater, or that your body is simply responding differently this time around. However, it is crucial to monitor the swelling and any accompanying symptoms. If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or if it continues to worsen rather than improve, it could indicate an infection or other complications that would warrant immediate medical attention.

Given that you are currently in a holiday period and may have limited access to your regular healthcare provider, it is advisable to keep a close eye on your symptoms. If the swelling does not begin to subside within a few days, or if you experience any concerning symptoms such as difficulty opening your mouth, significant pain, or fever, seeking emergency care would be prudent.

In summary, while some swelling after laser surgery for oral leukoplakia can be considered normal, it is essential to remain vigilant about your symptoms. If you have any doubts or if your condition changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and recovery are the top priority, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to post-operative care.

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