Facial Swelling: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery Tips

The face feels swollen and tender when pressed firmly?

I was quite busy for a while and ate less, which made my cheekbones appear more prominent.
I started to press on my face randomly, and as a result, my face looked noticeably strange.
I also used my hands to press hard on the muscles inside and pushed them, which made them visibly larger.
The more I pressed, the more swollen my face became, with one side becoming round and puffy, while the other side, which was originally symmetrical, became very asymmetrical.
I consulted a plastic surgeon and had an X-ray taken.
The doctor said there was no damage to the bones and prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and muscle relaxants.
At that time, the swollen area felt tight, which I suspect was due to inflammation and microvascular rupture.
Did I injure the cartilage? Is there any risk of nerve or muscle necrosis? My face can move normally, but it feels tight.
Is there a chance that I displaced the cartilage tissue? Will it heal and return to normal on its own, or do I need to see a specialist to have the tissue repositioned? When should I apply heat? How long will it take for the swelling to subside? Thank you, doctor.

chu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/10/03

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Sir/Madam,
It is likely just soft tissue swelling of the face.
It is recommended to allow it to rest and avoid unnecessary manipulation.
This may take about two weeks, and it is advisable not to waste money seeing a doctor, as the recovery time is similar across specialties.
It is suggested to apply a warm towel to the face for 15 minutes three times a day to promote blood circulation.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hou Yu-Chang
Attending Physician, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2009/10/03

More Info

Facial swelling can be a concerning symptom, especially when it leads to asymmetry and discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing significant facial swelling and asymmetry after applying pressure to your face, which may have exacerbated the situation. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the potential causes, treatments, and recovery tips for facial swelling.

Causes of Facial Swelling
1. Inflammation: The pressure you applied to your face could have caused inflammation in the soft tissues, leading to swelling. Inflammation can occur due to trauma, overuse of facial muscles, or even irritation from external factors.

2. Fluid Retention: Swelling can also be caused by fluid accumulation in the tissues, which may happen after excessive pressure or manipulation of the area.

3. Injury: Although X-rays showed no bone injury, soft tissue injuries can still occur. This includes damage to muscles, ligaments, or even minor tears in the skin that may not be visible.

4. Nerve Involvement: If the swelling is affecting the facial nerves, it could lead to sensations of tightness or discomfort, as well as potential muscle spasms.

5. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, swelling can be a result of an allergic reaction to substances that come into contact with the skin.

Treatments
1. Medications: Since you have already been prescribed anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions. These medications can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

2. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the swollen area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. It’s generally recommended to apply the compress for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

3. Avoiding Pressure: It’s crucial to avoid further manipulation of the area. Pressing or massaging the swollen area can worsen the inflammation and prolong recovery.

4. Hydration and Diet: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can help your body recover more effectively. Reducing salt intake may also help minimize fluid retention.

5. Physical Therapy: If the swelling persists or if there are concerns about muscle function, consulting a physical therapist who specializes in facial rehabilitation may be beneficial. They can provide exercises that promote recovery and improve muscle coordination.

Recovery Tips
1. Rest: Allow your body time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities that may exacerbate the swelling.

2. Heat Therapy: After the initial swelling has decreased (usually after 48 hours), you may consider using heat therapy to promote blood flow and healing. This can be done with warm compresses or heating pads.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the swelling does not improve or worsens, or if you experience additional symptoms such as severe pain, fever, or changes in vision, seek medical attention promptly.

4. Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your recovery and address any concerns that may arise.

Conclusion
In summary, facial swelling can result from various factors, including inflammation, fluid retention, and soft tissue injury. While your current treatment plan seems appropriate, it’s crucial to avoid further pressure on the affected area and to monitor your symptoms closely. Recovery can take time, and while many cases resolve on their own, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about nerve damage or soft tissue integrity, consider consulting a specialist, such as a neurologist or an otolaryngologist, for further evaluation.

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