Cheekbone and Eye Socket Fractures

When to seek a consultation

• Double vision, blurred vision or limited eye movement after an injury.
• Numbness of the cheek, upper lip or upper teeth.
• A visibly flattened cheek or a sunken eye.
• Pain or difficulty when opening the mouth.
• If vision is suddenly lost or markedly worse, there is severe eye pain or a head injury — call 112 immediately.

What treatment may involve

• Urgent assessment in an emergency department, including a vision check and, where needed, an ophthalmology consultation.
• Imaging — usually CT — to define the fracture and any involvement of the eye socket.
• Some fractures without displacement and without effects on vision may be managed with observation.
• With displacement, double vision or a sunken eye, surgery under general anaesthesia to realign and fix the bones and, where needed, repair the wall of the eye socket.
• Follow-up, often together with an ophthalmologist.

What to bring to the consultation

• An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
• Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
• Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
• A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.

Recovery and follow-up

In the first days, swelling and bruising around the eye and cheek are expected. You are usually advised not to blow your nose forcefully, to sleep with your head slightly raised and to follow the instructions on medicines and check-ups.

Recovery is individual. If your vision gets worse, pain increases or swelling grows, seek emergency help immediately.

Risks and alternatives

Possible after-effects and complications include persistent double vision, numbness of the cheek and upper lip, residual asymmetry or a sunken eye, infection and, rarely, effects on vision. Sometimes further correction is needed.

The choice between observation and surgery depends on the type of fracture and the condition of the eye, and is discussed individually, with an ophthalmologist where needed.

Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.

Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.

Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.

Frequently asked questions