Jaw surgeries, especially osteotomies conducted on the upper jaw, can cause auditory dysfunction by disturbing the functioning of the peritubular muscle. However, in most cases, full hearing functionality is eventually restored.
Do Jaw Surgeries Affect Hearing?
According to the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, maxillary and bimaxillary surgical procedures can cause dysfunction in the auditory system. The eustachian tube is most likely to be affected by pressure due to surgical edema. In most cases, this dysfunction is mild and transient, requiring little or no intervention to heal. This dysfunction is associated with edema and muscle traction. Patients often feel pressure in their ears a few weeks after surgery, but these sensations are normal. They usually subside over a month, and if they do not, it is advisable to consult your surgeon as there might be a serious underlying issue.
When Should I Be Worried After Jaw Surgery?
Ear Pain
While some degree of hearing loss is expected after jaw surgery, persistent ear pain should be a cause for concern. Jaw surgeries should not cause ear pain - just discomfort and some degree of hearing loss. Persistent ear pain might be a sign of ear damage, which is a risk factor for complete hearing loss.
Autophony
Autophony refers to the enhanced perception of bodily sounds, typically when one talks and breathes. It is mainly caused by an infection in the ear after jaw surgery, which causes the Eustachian tube opening to remain open. In this case, sound travels from the nasal sinus cavity into the ears, making your breathing audible and loud.
A Prolonged Feeling of Obstruction
Sometimes, you may experience a feeling of obstruction in one or both ears, causing great discomfort and balance problems. This obstruction might point to bone or tissue exerting undue pressure on the part of the ear due to edema or misalignment. If the obstruction does not ease away within a month, then a repeat corrective surgery might be necessary.
[[[Contact Us Today]]] If you have hearing problems that you associate with jaw surgery, contact us today. Our oral surgeons will assess your situation and develop a workable treatment for jaw-related issues. Do not wait too long, as many hearing problems are irreversible.
Our Blog | Rai Oral Surgery & Dental Implants | Virginia Beach Shaun B. Rai DMD has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Please read below and then call us today! Rai Oral Surgery and Dental Implants, 933 First Colonial Road #205, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 \ (757) 777-9883 \ raioralsurgery.com \ 12/4/2024 \ Tags: oral surgeon Virginia Beach VA \
Jaw surgeries, especially osteotomies conducted on the upper jaw, can cause auditory dysfunction by disturbing the functioning of the peritubular muscle. However, in most cases, full hearing functionality is eventually restored.