Chin Laceration: Suture, Skin Glue, or Tape (Child)

A chin laceration is a cut in the skin of the chin. The skin may be cut in a fall, or by a sharp object or fingernail. It can bleed, and cause redness and swelling.

A chin laceration is first treated with pressure to stop any bleeding. The area is then cleaned with soap and warm water. A cut that is not deep can be closed with surgical tape orskin glue (liquid adhesive) which is special liquid glue that forms a strong bond between the skin of an incision or cut (laceration). It keeps moisture and bacteria from entering the cut or incision. A deeper cut may need to be closed with small stitches (sutures). A skin anesthetic is used before suturing. A skin antibiotic and dressing may be put on over sutures or under tape. Chin sutures are usually removed in 3 to 5 days. Surgical tape peels off on its own over time. Your child may have a scar from the laceration.

Your child may also need a tetanus shot. This is given if the cause of the laceration may cause tetanus, and if your child has no record of a shot.

Home care

The healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics. These are to prevent infection. They may be in a cream or ointment to put on the skin. Use the antibiotics as instructed every day until they are gone. Don’t stop giving them to your child if he or she feels better. Don’t give your child aspirin unless you are told to by the healthcare provider.

General care

• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for how to care for the laceration.
• Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after caring for your child. This is to prevent infection.
• Change bandages or dressings as directed. Replace any bandage that becomes wet or dirty.
• Skin glue. Don’t put liquid, ointment, or cream on your incision or wound while the glue is in place. Avoid activities that cause heavy sweating. Protect the incision or wound from sunlight. Do not scratch, rub, or pick at the glue. Do not put tape directly over the glue. The glue should peel off within 5 to 10 days.
• Don’t soak the laceration in water for 7 to 10 days. If your child is old enough, have him or her take showers instead of baths during this time. Use a clean cloth to gently pat the area dry if it gets wet.
• Don’t use lotion or ointment on the laceration. These may cause the skin tape to peel off.
• Make sure your child does not scratch, rub, or pick at the area.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s healthcare provider, or as advised.

Special note to parents

If surgical tape was used, ask your healthcare provider if you should remove it or let it fall off on its own. Gently remove any adhesive with mineral oil or petroleum jelly on a cotton ball.

 © The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.