Psychological issues in oral and maxillofacial reconstructive surgery

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Psychology
• Mental Health

Background:

• Oral and maxillofacial operations can lead to significant psychological challenges for patients.
• These challenges are prevalent in individuals with craniofacial conditions, facial injuries, facial cancer, and those undergoing orthognathic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the psychological problems experienced by patients undergoing specific oral and maxillofacial procedures.
• To highlight the importance of mental health support in improving patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of psychological issues in patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery.
• Focus on conditions including craniofacial anomalies, trauma, cancer, and orthognathic surgery.
• Exclusion of psychological issues related to purely cosmetic facial surgery.

Main Results:

• Common psychological problems include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and altered body image.
• These issues negatively impact social relationships and overall well-being.
• The review identifies a range of mental health challenges specific to the patient populations studied.

Conclusions:

• Mental health professionals play a crucial role in managing psychological distress post-surgery.
• Integrating mental health support enhances postoperative satisfaction.
• Improved psychological care contributes to a better quality of life for patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery.