The evaluation of a facial contusion begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with a facial contusion may include:

• Facial tenderness
• Facial swelling
• Facial bruise

Physical findings that suggest a facial fracture include:

• Crepitus (a spongy feeling due to fractured bone or air in the tissues)
• Deformity of the nose or face
• Inability to move the eyes normally (double vision)
• Inability to close the teeth normally (malocclusion)
• Lack of symmetry of facial movement
• Severe tenderness over a bone

Severe facial contusions may require testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate facial contusion include:

• Facial bone x-rays
• CT scanning of the brain:
• If head injury is also being considered
• CT scanning of the facial bones
• MRI scan of the face
• Jaw and dental x-rays
• Eye examination

For more information:

• Facial fracture evaluation