Eyelid Lacerations

What are eyelid lacerations?

Eyelid lacerations are cuts to the eyelid caused by trauma. Your child's physician will examine the eye closely to make sure there is no damage to the eye itself. An ophthalmologist (physician who specializes in comprehensive eye care) may also examine your child for further evaluation of the eye.

Treatment for eyelid lacerations

Specific treatment for eyelid lacerations will be determined by your child's physician based on:

• Your child's age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent of the injury

• Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of the injury

• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• If the laceration is simple, as determined by your child's physician, the cut will be sutured (stitched). Local anesthetic drops may be placed in the eye and injected into the tissue prior to the suturing. The sutures will usually be taken out five to seven days after the injury.

• Sedation or general anesthesia may be needed for younger, uncooperative children.

• For larger lacerations, or if there is any involvement of the eye, an ophthalmologist may be consulted to evaluate and treat the wound.