Broken Eye Socket (Orbital Fracture) – Treatment & Recovery

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An orbital fracture, often referred to as a broken eye socket, happens when one or more of the bones around the eye are cracked or broken due to trauma. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, depending on the severity and type of fracture.

Key Information

PRICE

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TIME OF PROCEDURE

Depends on several factors

DOWNTIME

5-6 weeks

DISCOMFORT LEVEL

3 out of 5

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Navigation

What Is a Broken Eye Socket?

The orbit is a complex structure formed by several thin bones that provide support and protection to the eye. When subjected to significant force, such as from an accident or direct impact, these bones may fracture.

Orbital rim fractures usually result from major trauma, while blowout fractures occur when the thin floor or wall of the socket is pushed outward, sometimes trapping tissue or muscle. In children, a so-called “trapdoor fracture” can develop when a flexible bone bends and then snaps back, pinching the soft tissue in the process.

In some cases, orbital fractures occur together with zygomatic or maxillary fractures. For this reason, 3D imaging and multidisciplinary evaluation with maxillofacial and oculoplastic surgeons are often recommended to guide management.

Broken Eye Socket Symptoms

Patients with an orbital fracture may notice one or more of the following:

  • Pain, swelling, and bruising around the eye
  • Double or blurred vision
  • Restricted or painful eye movement
  • Numbness in the cheek, upper lip, or side of the nose
  • A sunken or unusually prominent appearance of the eye
  • Nausea or vomiting, especially in children, when soft tissues are trapped in the fracture site
  • Occasionally, patients may notice visual disturbances such as flashes, floaters, or loss of part of the visual field — symptoms that require urgent ophthalmic review.

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Causes and Risk Factors

The most frequent causes of orbital fractures include sports injuries from balls or elbows, traffic accidents, falls, and physical assaults. Occupational accidents can also be a significant factor, especially in environments where heavy tools or machinery are used.

Protective gear, such as helmets and seatbelts, can help reduce these risks but cannot always prevent injury.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the type and extent of the fracture. A specialist will begin with a physical examination of the eye and its movements, followed by vision testing. Imaging plays a central role, with CT scans providing the most precise information about both bone and soft tissue damage. Specialist consultation with an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon is often arranged to ensure that the health and function of the eye are thoroughly evaluated.

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Broken Eye Socket – Treatment Options

Treatment for a broken eye socket depends on the type of fracture and its impact on vision, movement, and the position of the eye. While some injuries heal on their own with careful observation, others require surgical repair to prevent long-term complications. A personalised assessment is always essential to decide which approach is most appropriate.

Broken Eye Socket Surgery

Surgery is considered when the fracture causes persistent double vision, when the eye appears sunken or displaced, or when soft tissue and muscles are trapped in the broken bone. Large orbital floor fractures also usually require surgical correction.

The procedure typically involves releasing any trapped tissue, removing bone fragments that may be causing obstruction, and reconstructing the damaged part of the orbital wall with implants designed to restore both function and appearance.

Computer-assisted planning and intraoperative navigation are increasingly used to improve implant positioning and reduce postoperative diplopia.

Conservative Treatment

In many cases, small and stable fractures can be managed without surgery. Patients are advised to rest with their head elevated to reduce swelling. Cold compresses may also be used to ease pain and bruising. Over-the-counter pain relief is often sufficient, although stronger medication can be prescribed if needed.

To avoid worsening the injury, nose blowing and excessive straining should be strictly avoided, as these actions can increase pressure in the orbit. In certain situations, antibiotics or decongestants may be recommended to reduce the risk of infection or help alleviate sinus pressure.

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Broken Eye Socket

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Broken Eye Socket

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Broken Eye Socket

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Broken Eye Socket

broken-eye-socket-scan

Broken Eye Socket

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Surgical treatment

If the fracture requires repair, several options are available. The orbital floor fracture will need to be bridged by either using a titanium mesh or, using cutting edge computer designed customised patient specific implants (PSIs). Our current preference is to use these customised implants which are made from PEEK, A form of polymer that is extremely versatile and associated with a low risk of complications.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery time for a broken eye socket following an orbital fracture is gradual. Swelling and bruising typically begin to subside within seven to ten days, but full bone healing can take longer. During this time, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, contact sports, or any activity that could put additional strain on the eye. You may also require regular checks of the eye movements to ensure that these are not being affected.

Follow-up visits are an essential part of the healing process, enabling the medical team to monitor vision, verify that the bones are healing properly, and identify any potential complications.

FAQ

Do all orbital fractures need surgery?

Not every fractured eye requires an operation. Smaller, stable fractures can often heal with rest and monitoring, while surgery is reserved for cases where vision, movement, or appearance may be compromised.

How long does recovery take?

Broken eye socket recovery time is a gradual process that can last several weeks to months.

Patients generally resume normal daily activities within 2–3 weeks, but strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

When can I return to sport?

The right time to resume sports varies from person to person and should always be decided by the treating surgeon.

Returning too early could increase the risk of complications, so medical clearance is essential.

Will vision return to normal?

In most cases, vision improves as swelling decreases, but the outcome depends on the extent of the fracture, the tissues involved, and the timing of treatment. Early medical attention gives the best chance of restoring normal vision.

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