Facial Injuries from Dog Bites

Facial dog bite injuries are common following vicious canine attacks. The nose, mouth and parotid region is a main target for dog bite injuries, which can lead to disfigurement and other problems. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has stated that dog bites on the face can result in severe lacerations, infection or scarring. Besides the pain from puncture wounds and lacerations caused by a dog attack, dog bite victims may also suffer nerve damage, disability and even death.

When a victim sustains a dog bite injury to the face, there is also a risk of facial fractures. Even though facial fractures from a Florida dog attack do not occur frequently, doctors still need to examine victims carefully to rule out this type of injury.

Following a dog bite, the doctor’s focus will be on preventing infection. The physician will clean the wound carefully to lower the risk of wound infection, osteomyletis, tenosynovitis and other complications. Death from a dog bite infection is rare, but it does happen. Life threatening dog bite infections can lead to fever, vomiting, headache, confusion and other symptoms.

The most common effects of a facial dog bite are scarring and disfigurement. When the damage to the tissue is severe, surgery may be required, including orthopedic surgery and reconstructive surgery. According to American Society of Plastic Surgeons President James Wells, MD, "Plastic surgeons, who have the training to preserve and rearrange skin and tissue, repair wounds from thousands of dog attacks every year.”

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, you should contact an experienced Florida dog bite attorney. An experienced St Petersburg personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of William K. Saron will be able to explain your legal rights following a dog bite, including your ability to recover compensation. Contact us today at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for more information.