Complex Laceration Repair

Complex lacerations or “cuts” are typically caused by accidental trauma to the face or neck. They usually require surgery to close the laceration in order to provide an optimal cosmetic result. Laceration repair may be done using local anesthesia to numb the involved area, or sometimes, it may require general anesthesia.

Depending on how deep the laceration is, it may be closed with a single layer of sutures, or several layers. If it is a multiple layer closure, the deeper sutures are dissolvable and will not require removal. Scars formed by skin lacerations will heal and mature over 9-12 months. During this time, scars should be kept out of the sun to decrease the chance for pigmentation of the scar tissue.

If you have a deep cut on the face or neck, please seek medical attention as soon as possible to decrease the risk of infection or unfavorable scarring.