60.2 Haematoma of the eyelid (’black eye’)

A black eye is the result of a blow by a blunt object. By itself it is not serious. But: (1) it may be part of a head injury (63.1), or a maxillofacial injury (62.1). (2) The patient’s globe may have ruptured. This may be difficult to diagnose if there is much swelling, so anaesthetize him and use eyelid retractors. If his globe has not been injured, no treatment is necessary. If it has been injured, goto Section 60.7. Mild ptosis (drooping of the lid) is common after a black eye. If it lasts more than a month, refer him.