If the eyelid has a cut that is more than a scratch (laceration), the eyeball may be damaged. Something may be puncturing the eyeball. A cut to the eye or eyelid can lead to blindness or other problems with the eye and must be looked at by a doctor.

If you are wearing contact lenses at the time of an injury, the eye surface over the pupil and iris (cornea) can get scratched.

Cuts to the upper eyelid may damage the muscle that controls the up-and-down movement of the eyelid. These cuts may need stitches to reduce scarring and keep the normal use of the eyelid. Surgery may be needed to prevent lasting drooping of the eyelid.

Cuts to the eyelid on the inner side toward the nose may damage the tear ducts. These injuries happen more often in children. They may need treatment to keep the eyelid and tear ducts working properly.