Our Summary
This research paper explores the use of social media, particularly Instagram, by oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) - doctors who specialize in treating diseases, injuries, and defects in the face, jaw, and mouth. The study shows that social media is becoming an increasingly important tool for these surgeons to share their knowledge, research, and educational materials, as well as to build relationships and advocate for their field.
The researchers looked at one particular Instagram account related to OMS and examined various factors including the number of followers, profile views, and the performance of the posts on the account. They also studied the demographics of the followers, including their geographical location and language.
They found that the account had 9,569 followers, with 64.9% of them having public accounts. Among these public accounts, 40.2% were female. The highest number of followers came from the United States (31.7%), followed by India (12.5%), Malaysia (5.3%), Mexico (4.0%), and Pakistan (3.6%). The cities with the most followers were New York, Boston, Cairo, Santiago, and Karachi.
This study highlights the potential of social media as a platform for global collaboration, enabling the sharing of surgical knowledge and expertise on a worldwide scale. This information can also help understand the demographics of OMS professionals, trainees, and affiliates globally.
FAQs
- How is social media being used by oral and maxillofacial surgeons according to the research?
- What were the key findings of the study regarding the demographics of the Instagram account’s followers?
- How does this study suggest social media could contribute to global collaboration in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow their post-operative care instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and minimize complications. This may include guidelines on pain management, wound care, diet restrictions, and activity restrictions. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns. Additionally, patients should communicate openly with their healthcare team about any symptoms or issues they may be experiencing during the recovery process.
Suitable For
In terms of patients recommended for maxillofacial surgery, typically these surgeries are recommended for individuals with conditions such as:
Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered facial injuries from accidents, falls, sports injuries, or assaults may require maxillofacial surgery to repair fractures and restore facial aesthetics and function.
Craniofacial anomalies: Individuals born with congenital abnormalities such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, or other facial deformities may benefit from maxillofacial surgery to improve their appearance and quality of life.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders that cause jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty chewing, and other symptoms may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery to correct the issue and alleviate their symptoms.
Sleep apnea: Maxillofacial surgery can also be recommended for patients with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to breathing difficulties and disrupted sleep patterns.
Orthognathic surgery: This type of surgery is often recommended for patients with misaligned jaws or teeth that cause functional issues such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing. Orthognathic surgery can help realign the jaws and improve overall facial harmony and function.
Overall, maxillofacial surgery is a specialized field that addresses a wide range of conditions affecting the face, jaw, and mouth. Patients recommended for these surgeries may have varying needs and goals, and the expertise of oral and maxillofacial surgeons is crucial in providing them with the best possible outcomes.
Timeline
Before maxillofacial surgery:
- Patient consults with oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and create a personalized treatment plan.
- Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and imaging studies to assess the condition of the face, jaw, and mouth.
- Patient receives pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines and medication management.
- Surgery is scheduled and patient prepares mentally and physically for the procedure.
After maxillofacial surgery:
- Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is closely monitored by medical staff.
- Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
- Patient follows post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments.
- Patient gradually resumes normal activities and diet as instructed by the surgeon.
- Patient may undergo physical therapy or speech therapy to aid in recovery and rehabilitation.
- Patient experiences improved facial aesthetics, function, and overall quality of life as a result of the surgery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with maxillofacial surgery?
- What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
- How experienced are you in performing this specific type of maxillofacial surgery?
- Are there alternative treatment options available for my condition?
- Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone similar procedures?
- What are the long-term outcomes and success rates of this surgery?
- Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in the future?
- How much will the surgery cost and will my insurance cover it?
- What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my results?
- How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities and return to work/school?
Reference
Authors: Harris JA, Beck NA, Niedziela CJ, Alvarez GA, Danquah SA, Afshar S. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2023 Sep;27(3):513-517. doi: 10.1007/s10006-022-01095-6. Epub 2022 Jun 24. PMID: 35739365