Jessica Macko, a 44-year-old Texas model, underwent all-on-4 dental implant surgery on April 2, where an oral surgeon removed her real teeth and replaced them with 14 fake implants. While she was warned about potential pain, swelling, and bruising, Macko was shocked by the severity of the bruises that appeared on her face the day after the surgery. The bruising extended from her neck to her eyes, causing her to look like a “monster” four days post-operation.
Macko experienced excruciating pain and discomfort after the surgery, preventing her from sleeping or eating for the first week. She returned to her oral surgeon to inquire about the extreme bruising, which he explained was a possible side effect. Macko attributed her bruising to her anemia, which can exacerbate bruising. Her teeth were severely damaged from an eating disorder she struggled with in her youth, leading her to undergo the all-on-4 procedure for medical reasons rather than cosmetic ones.
Photos taken by Macko reveal the extent of her bruising, which has finally started to subside more than two weeks after the surgery. Despite the intense pain and side effects she endured, Macko doesn’t regret getting the implants as it was a part of her healing process from her eating disorder. Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies from the disorder can result in tooth decay, while bulimia can damage tooth enamel due to exposure to stomach acid.
The severity of Macko’s bruising was unexpected for her, causing her emotional distress as she compared her appearance to a “Rorschach inkblot test.” The surgeon reassured her that extreme bruising was a possibility, and some patients had experienced worse bruising. Macko’s experience highlights the potential risks and side effects of dental implant surgery, especially for individuals with preexisting medical conditions.
Although she faced challenges and extreme discomfort following the surgery, Macko remains grateful for the implants as part of her healing journey. The procedure helped restore her oral health, which had suffered significantly from her past struggles. As the bruising begins to fade and her recovery progresses, Macko is focused on the positive outcome of her decision to undergo the dental implant surgery. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of oral health and the impact it can have on overall well-being.
