Facial or Scalp Contusion

A facial or scalp contusion is a bruise (contusion) on the face or head. Contusions are the result of a direct force (blunttrauma) to the face or scalp that has caused bleeding under the skin. The contusion may turn blue, purple, or yellow (discoloration). Minor injuries may cause a painless contusion, but more severe contusions may stay painful and swollen for a few weeks.

Injuries to the face and head generally cause a lot of swelling and discoloration, especially around the eyes. Contusions by themselves are generally not life threatening. You may have a contusion along with other injuries, such as broken bones (fractures), cuts, and injuries to blood vessels.

What are the causes?

What are the signs or symptoms?

In addition to symptoms of contusions, if you have facial fractures, you may have a change in the appearance of your nose, may not be able to close your mouth, and may have vision changes.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed based on your medical history and a physical exam. An X-ray exam, CT scan, or MRI may be needed to check for any additional injuries. In some cases, your health care provider may need to do more examinations of your nose, eyes, or jaw.

How is this treated?

Often, the best treatment for a facial or scalp contusion is applying cold compresses to the injured area. Over-the-counter medicines may also be recommended to help relieve pain.

If there are any cuts (lacerations), these will need to be repaired as well. Any deeper injuries may require treatment and follow up with a specialist, such as a facial surgeon or an eye specialist (ophthalmologist).

Follow these instructions at home:

Managing pain, stiffness, and swelling

• If directed, put ice on the injured area. To do this:

  • Put ice in a plastic bag.

  • Place a towel between your skin and the bag.

  • Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.

  • Remove the ice if your skin turns bright red. This is very important. If you cannot feel pain, heat, or cold, you have a greater risk of damage to the area.

• Raise (elevate) the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have trouble biting or chewing.

• Your pain or swelling gets worse.

• The discolored area gets much worse.

Get help right away if:

• You have severe pain or a headache that is not relieved by medicine.

• You have unusual sleepiness, confusion, or personality changes.

• You vomit.

• You have a nosebleed that does not stop.

• You have double vision or blurred vision.

• You have clear fluid draining from your nose or ear, and it does not go away.

• You have trouble walking or using your arms or legs.

• You have severe dizziness.

Summary

• A facial or scalp contusion is a bruise (contusion) on the face or head.

• Contusions are the result of an injury that caused bleeding and swelling under the skin.

• Minor contusions will have mild symptoms, but more severe contusions may stay painful and swollen for a few weeks.

• Some facial and head contusions may be associated with other more serious injuries. Go to a health care provider if you have vision changes, bleeding from your face or nose, or you are not able to to bite down normally.

• Often, the best treatment for a facial or scalp contusion is applying cold compresses to the injured area.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.