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Facial Trauma Surgery

Expert Care for Facial Injuries and Reconstruction

Trauma to the face—whether from an accident, fall, or injury—can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. At Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (Third Coast OMS), our board-certified oral surgeons are specially trained to treat the full spectrum of facial trauma, from soft tissue injuries and broken facial bones to dental trauma and long-term reconstruction.

Dr. Niquette and Dr. Lytle have extensive surgical training and hospital-based experience in managing complex facial injuries. Whether you’re seen through the emergency room or referred by your dentist or physician, we are here to provide compassionate, expert care that restores both function and appearance.

Third Coast OMS Facial Trauma

Types of Facial Injuries We Treat

Our surgeons provide emergency and elective treatment for a wide range of facial trauma cases, including:

  • Facial lacerations and soft tissue injuries
  • Intraoral lacerations (inside the mouth)
  • Knocked-out or displaced teeth (avulsed teeth)
  • Fractured facial bones (cheekbone, nose, orbital socket)
  • Broken jaws (upper or lower jaw fractures)

We also provide follow-up care and long-term facial reconstruction for patients recovering from trauma.

Why Choose an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon for Facial Trauma?

Unlike general dentists or ER doctors, oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive specialized training in:

  • Emergency facial trauma care
  • Surgical repair of facial fractures
  • Dental injury management
  • Facial reconstruction and cosmetic repair

Dr. Niquette and Dr. Lytle are on staff at local hospitals and provide facial trauma coverage through emergency departments across West Michigan. Their goal is always to provide thorough, predictable treatment that supports full recovery—functionally, emotionally, and aesthetically.

Third Coast OMS Surgeons

Causes of Facial Trauma

Facial injuries can happen in many ways, including:

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Sports injuries
  • Work-related accidents
  • Falls
  • Physical altercations or assaults
  • Bicycle or scooter accidents

Whatever the cause, our goal is to restore your health, comfort, and appearance with the least amount of scarring or long-term impact.

Soft Tissue Injuries of the Face

When cuts or lacerations affect the face or inside the mouth, expert repair is critical—not just for cosmetic reasons, but also to protect vital structures like facial nerves, salivary glands, and ducts. Our surgeons are highly skilled in performing aesthetic, functional suturing techniques that preserve both form and function. Incisions are placed strategically to minimize visible scarring.

Fractured Facial Bones and Jaw Injuries

When facial bones are broken—including the cheekbones, nose, eye socket, or jaws—treatment must be carefully planned to restore proper alignment and bite function. Our surgeons use advanced techniques such as:

  • Rigid fixation – using small titanium plates and screws to stabilize the fracture without the need to wire the jaw shut
  • Minimally invasive incisions – placed inside the mouth or in discreet locations to minimize scarring
  • CT-guided surgical planning – for precision and optimal facial symmetry

With modern surgical techniques, many patients experience quicker recovery times and a faster return to normal activity.

Dental Trauma and Tooth Injuries

Injuries to the teeth and surrounding bone are common with facial trauma. We manage:

  • Fractures of the jawbone that support teeth
  • Displaced or avulsed (knocked-out) teeth
  • Stabilization with splints or bonding techniques
  • Tooth replantation when handled properly and treated promptly

If a tooth is knocked out, place it in milk or a saline solution and see us or a dentist immediately. Do not clean or scrub the tooth. The sooner it's replanted, the better the chances of saving it.

If damaged teeth cannot be restored, we offer dental implants as a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.

Anesthesia Information

Comfort‑First Options for Anesthesia

At Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we tailor anesthesia to each patient's procedure and comfort needs—ranging from simple local numbing and “laughing gas” to IV “twilight” sedation, fully monitored in-office general anesthesia, or hospital-level services in our accredited suite. Every option is overseen by experienced professionals and supported by modern monitoring to ensure your safety and ease throughout treatment.

Learn more about our anesthesia services

Anesthesia Options

Instant Comfort & Trust

I went in for a consult with Dr. Lytle. He was incredibly kind, understanding, and knowledgeable. He thoroughly answered all of my questions without making me feel rushed or pressured. I felt an instant comfort and trust, which is very important if I’ll be needing surgery in the future. The facility was also beautiful with friendly and very helpful staff. It was a really nice touch how they have a bunch of treats/snacks and drinks as you wait, and when you leave, there are a variety of free gifts for you if you’d like (with “Third Coast” labeling). It was all very thoughtful and appreciated. Thank you!

Melisa M.
Third Coast OMS Testimonials
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Compassionate Care When You Need It Most

Facial injuries can be deeply distressing—but you don’t have to face recovery alone. At Third Coast OMS, we combine surgical excellence with personal support to guide you every step of the way, from initial emergency care to full recovery and reconstruction.

Serving Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, and surrounding West Michigan communities
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