Dog bites to the face are unfortunately common, especially in children, and eyelid injuries can be particularly complex and traumatic. These injuries not only affect appearance but also risk damaging the delicate tear drainage system and eye surface, making prompt medical attention essential.

In most cases, eyelid dog bites require surgical repair to ensure proper eyelid function, prevent infection, and minimize scarring. The goal is not just cosmetic recovery, but also preserving vision and enabling normal eye protection through blinking.

Why Eyelid Injuries from Dog Bites Are Serious

The eyelid plays a crucial role in protecting the eye and maintaining corneal health. When a dog bite results in a deep or large wound, several complications may arise:

• Exposure of the cornea due to the inability to close the eye
• Infection, which may spread quickly in facial tissues
• Tear drainage system damage, leading to constant tearing or dryness
• Scarring or deformity, which may affect both vision and appearance

Prompt wound decontamination and anti-rabies prophylaxis are the first steps. But once the risk of infection is controlled, reconstructive surgery becomes the main focus.

A Case in Point: Reconstructing a Severed Upper Eyelid

We recently treated a young boy who had suffered a severe upper eyelid injury after being bitten by his pet dog. More than half of his upper eyelid was bitten off, including the eyelashes—a situation that exposed the cornea and left him unable to close his eye. This kind of defect, known as an eyelid coloboma, poses an urgent threat to eye health.

After immediate wound cleaning and administration of the anti-rabies vaccine, surgical planning was initiated.

One-Stage Eyelid Reconstruction: A Unique Approach

In most cases, large eyelid defects like this require a two-stage reconstruction, often using tissue from the opposite eyelid. This approach, while effective, can be uncomfortable and require a longer recovery time.

Instead, we opted for a one-stage eyelid reconstruction, utilizing sliding flaps from the outer eyelid area and advanced techniques in eyelid closure. This approach allowed for a single surgery with effective coverage and restoration.

The outcome was excellent—the child regained full eyelid function, could close his eye properly, and both the cornea and vision were well-preserved. Cosmetically, the result was also very satisfying for the family.

Conclusion

Eyelid dog bites are serious injuries that require immediate and skilled medical care. With timely intervention and innovative surgical techniques, even large eyelid defects can be successfully repaired in a single stage, preserving both function and appearance.

If your child suffers a dog bite—especially involving the eye or eyelid—seek emergency care immediately. Expert intervention can make all the difference in long-term outcomes.