Chin Laceration, Skin Glue Repair

A laceration is a cut through the skin. If you have a chin laceration, skin glue may be used to repair the cut. Skin glue is usually used on cuts that are shallow, have smooth edges, and are not infected. A lower layer of skin may be closed with stitches before skin glue is applied. Skin glue provides a water-resistant covering that allows for fast healing. No bandages are required. Skin glue peels off on its own within 5 to 10 days. You may need a tetanus shot if you are not up to date on your tetanus vaccine.

Home care

Medicines

You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, talk with your doctor before using these medicines. Also talk with your doctor if you have ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding.

General care

• Keep the wound clean and dry. You may shower or bathe as usual, but don't use soaps, lotions, or ointments on the wound area. Don't soak the wound area for 7 to 10 days. Don't scrub the wound. After bathing, pat the wound dry with a soft towel.

• Don't scratch, rub, or pick at the skin glue. Don't place tape directly over the skin glue.

• Don't apply liquids such as peroxide, ointments, or creams to the wound while the skin glue is in place. These substances can dissolve the skin glue too soon.

• If the adhesive doesn't peel off after 10 days, apply petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment to the area.

• Most chin wounds heal without problems. However, an infection sometimes occurs despite proper treatment. Therefore, watch for the signs of infection listed below.

• Certain types of skin glues can't be used if you have an allergy to latex or formaldehyde. Tell your doctor right away about your allergies.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised. The skin glue will fall off naturally in 5 to 10 days.

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Signs of infection:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your health care provider

  • Increasing pain in the wound

  • Increasing redness or swelling

  • Pus coming from the wound

• Wound bleeds more than a small amount or bleeding doesn’t stop

• Wound edges come apart