A cut to the eye or eyelid

If there is a cut (that is more than a scratch) on the eyelid, the eyeball may be damaged, such as something puncturing the eyeball. Any cut to the eye or eyelid could lead to blindness or decreased eye function and must be carefully evaluated. Scratches to the eye surface (cornea) can occur if you are wearing contact lenses at the time of the injury.

Cuts to the upper eyelid may damage the muscle that controls the up-and-down movement of the eyelid. These cuts may require stitches to reduce scarring and preserve the normal function of the eyelid. Surgical treatment may be needed to prevent permanent drooping of the eyelid.

Cuts to the eyelid on the inner side toward the nose may damage the tear ducts. These injuries occur more often in children and may need medical treatment to preserve the normal function of the eyelid and tear ducts.

Cuts that cross the edge of the eyelid must be carefully repaired for normal eye function and appearance.

If the eye is not injured, the cut is minor, and your vision is normal, see the topics Cuts and Scrapes.