About a facial MRI scan
The face contains many structures packed closely together: the facial bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, the salivary glands (including the parotid gland in front of each ear), and the nerves that control facial movement and feeling. An MRI scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays, to make detailed pictures of these tissues.
MRI shows soft tissues more clearly than CT, so it is often preferred for investigating lumps and swellings of the face and salivary glands, and for seeing how a lump relates to nearby nerves, such as the facial nerve, which runs through the parotid gland. CT is usually better for broken facial bones after an injury, and the sinuses, jaw joints (TMJ) and eye sockets (orbits) each have their own dedicated scans.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed with your head in a head coil, which fits around your head like a cage and has a mirror so you can see out. The scanner is loud, so you will wear ear plugs or headphones, and the radiographer can talk to you throughout. You need to keep your head still and may be asked to avoid swallowing or moving your jaw during some pictures. Contrast dye (gadolinium) is often used for facial lumps; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
A facial MRI can help to look at:
- lumps and swellings in the soft tissues of the face
- lumps in the salivary glands, especially the parotid gland, and their relationship to the facial nerve
- inflammation and infection of the soft tissues and glands
- abnormalities of the facial bones, including the bone marrow
- how far a known growth extends, before surgery
For broken facial bones, a CT scan is usually more suitable. Ask your doctor which test is best for you.
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is usually needed, and you can eat and drink normally. Please do not wear make-up, as some products contain metallic particles that can affect the pictures, and remove facial piercings and hair clips. If you have dental braces or other fixed dental work, tell us when booking; most dental work is safe, but it can affect the pictures.
You can usually eat, drink and take your normal medicines unless the scanning centre tells you otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips or buttons, and leave jewellery at home. You will be asked to remove metal items such as hair clips, hearing aids, coins and keys, and you may be asked to change into a gown.
Before the scan you will complete a safety questionnaire. Tell the team if you have a pacemaker, any metal implant, surgical clips or other device, if you have kidney problems or allergies, or if you are, or might be, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you feel anxious in enclosed spaces, let us know when you book. Some centres can offer a relaxant, and if you take one you will need someone to take you home and must not drive for 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Should I have an MRI or a CT scan of my face?
MRI is usually better for soft tissue lumps, swellings and the salivary glands. CT is usually better for broken bones after an injury. Your doctor can advise which is right for you.
Is this the same as a sinus or jaw (TMJ) scan?
No. The sinuses, jaw joints (TMJ) and eye sockets (orbits) have their own dedicated MRI scans, which you can book separately.
Will I need a contrast injection?
Often, if a lump is being investigated, as contrast helps show its features. If contrast is needed, it is given through a small cannula in your arm and charged separately.
Do I need a referral?
You can tell us if you have a referral from your GP, physiotherapist or consultant and upload it when you book. If you do not have one, select “no referral” when you book and the scanning centre will confirm the next steps with you.
Sources
- European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology (2023) – MRI tractography of the intraparotid facial nerve
- American Journal of Neuroradiology – parotid gland imaging
- RadiologyInfo.org – MRI of the Brain (head imaging and preparation)
- NHS – MRI scan
The information on this page has been gathered from various sources and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice. TOP MRI is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of this information. Please speak to your doctor or the scanning centre about your own situation.