Prompt Care for Corneal Injuries

The cornea is the clear outer surface of the eye that plays a vital role in focusing vision and protecting the eye from debris. Because it is highly sensitive, even a small scratch can cause noticeable pain and irritation.

Scratches on the eye can occur during everyday activities and may result from contact with dust, foreign objects, fingernails, or improper contact lens use. At Richlin Eye, our doctors evaluate and provide scratched eye treatments in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, helping relieve discomfort while preventing infection or further injury.

Understanding Scratched Eyes

A scratched eye, or corneal abrasion, occurs when the surface layer of the cornea becomes damaged. The cornea contains many nerve endings, which is why even minor scratches can cause significant discomfort.

In many cases, the cornea heals quickly with proper care. However, untreated scratches may lead to complications such as infection or delayed healing, making prompt evaluation important whenever symptoms occur.

Clear Vision. Happy Patients.

Dr. Bradley Richlin is so good at what he does!!

the office is beautiful. the employees are professional and caring and very good at what they do.

I truly love that there is very little waiting around. my appointment ye...

the office is beautiful. the employees are professional and caring and very good at what they do.

I truly love that there is very little waiting around. my appointment yesterday was at 850 am. I was in the office within a few minutes and out by 930 am with a full exam. Dr. Bradley Richlin is so good at what he does!!

—David F

I am immensely grateful to this office!

I was having an emergency, was in excruciating pain and was getting on a flight next day. I called the morning of December 22 and they were able to squeeze me in at 1 pm. A spec...

I was having an emergency, was in excruciating pain and was getting on a flight next day. I called the morning of December 22 and they were able to squeeze me in at 1 pm. A special thank you goes to Pam, who made that happen. Everyone at the office was so attentive. An assistant saw that I was in a lot of discomfort and offered to put numbing drops into my eye. It ended up being cornea abrasion and it got super irritated. It is day 3 and I am feeling so much better with the drops I was prescribed.

Nothing but good words for incredible people at this office!

Thank you!!!

—Oksana N

Thanks Doctor Richlin. You’re the greatest!!

Solid. Quick, easy, professional, friendly and courteous. Thanks Doctor Richlin. You’re the greatest!!

—Avital H

I was very happy with the whole process.

I love when specialists are thorough. I have been to eye doctors in the past that just do a couple tests. Dr Glass was so nice and amazing!! Her whole staff is really nice too. ...

I love when specialists are thorough. I have been to eye doctors in the past that just do a couple tests. Dr Glass was so nice and amazing!! Her whole staff is really nice too. When it’s time to get your glasses they have so many great frames to choose from and Guilmer helped me to pick the right ones for my face. I am very happy!!

— Kimberly M

Dr Ora is fantastic!

I first met her when I had an emergency and she was instrumental in helping me to recover and making sure all was well along the way. This was my annualize visit. It was great t...

I first met her when I had an emergency and she was instrumental in helping me to recover and making sure all was well along the way. This was my annualize visit. It was great to see her. Her assistant was also great. Thoughtful. Helpful and knowledgeable.

—Sharon S

I always feel “seen and heard” by Bradley Richlin, and before him his father, Steve Richlin. They are both super-informed about eye care and maintain their knowledge...

I always feel “seen and heard” by Bradley Richlin, and before him his father, Steve Richlin. They are both super-informed about eye care and maintain their knowledge on an ongoing basis. I highly recommend their practice for anybody looking for state of the art eye care with a personalized experience.

—Jeffrey F

They are top notch and deserve all the five star reviews and continued business!!

On time, clean, professional, friendly, knowledgeable. Marco and Dr. Parnell were so cool and fun to chat with. I left feeling well cared for! Shout out to Pam in reception for ...

On time, clean, professional, friendly, knowledgeable. Marco and Dr. Parnell were so cool and fun to chat with. I left feeling well cared for! Shout out to Pam in reception for being incredibly sweet and kind! So happy I discovered this office for my eye care. They are top notch and deserve all the five star reviews and continued business!!

—Aimee C

Dr. Bradley was wonderful.

Enjoyed meeting him. The staff was wonderful and very helpful

—Joyce R

Top marks for all concerned

Dr. Bradley R. Was direct and clear. He explained all the steps of my annual checkup and what needed to be done (and not needed mostly). The support staff was all excellent. Top...

Dr. Bradley R. Was direct and clear. He explained all the steps of my annual checkup and what needed to be done (and not needed mostly). The support staff was all excellent. Top marks for all concerned

—David S

The best OD and new Rx experience I have ever had!

The staff was very friend and respectful. They explained everything. I did not feel rushed. Edwin was so helpful with getting my new frames.

—Anonymous

Best healthcare practice in LA.

Always excellent service. Never rushed. Best healthcare practice in LA.

—Peter O

Lovely staff, wonderful service.

Dr. Bradley is amazing in explaiining complicate matters in simple terms.

—Alex P

Dr. Richlin does a great job!

He listens attentively and allows plenty of time for the patient to talk about their concerns. his patient and respectful manner is matched by his remarkable expertise.

—Henry R

My visit was wonderful.

My visit was wonderful. I was treated with such kindness. The staff was great. Two staff members ASIA and Veronica were outstanding. And of course Dr. Bradley Richlin was awesom...

My visit was wonderful. I was treated with such kindness. The staff was great. Two staff members ASIA and Veronica were outstanding. And of course Dr. Bradley Richlin was awesome. Thank you so much. Jewell Esteen.

—Jewell E

Dr Bradley Richlen was amazing

Kind, took his time to solve the issue.

—Gary F

This was the best service I have ever received from an eye doctor, or perhaps any doctor.

Dr. Ora Esfahani was very attentive, made sure I was safe and checked on me several times during the day. Everyone else in the office was friendly and helpful as well.

Dr. Ora Esfahani was very attentive, made sure I was safe and checked on me several times during the day. Everyone else in the office was friendly and helpful as well.

—Nicole C

Love Dr Richlin and his staff.

Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, thorough. Everything one would hope for in a doctor can be found here.

—Michele H

I highly recommend this practice!

In over 30 years of wearing glasses and visiting various doctors, I’ve never experienced a more patient-friendly office. The staff is incredibly welcoming and skilled, and...

In over 30 years of wearing glasses and visiting various doctors, I’ve never experienced a more patient-friendly office. The staff is incredibly welcoming and skilled, and Dr. B. Richlin consistently takes the time to listen and address all my concerns. I highly recommend this practice!

—Elmira S

Couldn’t ask for a better experience from beginning to end.

Parking for the office is quick and easy. As well as free with validation. The staff is professional and friendly from the moment you walk in. All the latest equipment make for ...

Parking for the office is quick and easy. As well as free with validation. The staff is professional and friendly from the moment you walk in. All the latest equipment make for a fast and quick exam. Couldn’t ask for a better experience from beginning to end.

—Jason C

Dr Esfahani was very thorough, patient, and a good listener.

She explained everything well. Asked good questions and had genuine interest.

—Anonymous

Dr. Richland is by far the most thorough and kind position I have ever been with.

I have been with him over 30 years and never disappointed. His staff is professional and I would recommend him to anybody and everybody.

—Judith G

What a super experience with my first appointment with Dr Bradley Richlin!

I was supplied with all the proper information and explanation of their procedures... helpful! The visit was extremely pleasant from the first moments to the very end. The entir...

I was supplied with all the proper information and explanation of their procedures... helpful! The visit was extremely pleasant from the first moments to the very end. The entire team was friendly and professional... felt they had made me comfortable and totally at ease. ...also their equipment and technical expertise were quite impressive! Thank you again.

—Johnny L

Dr. Esfahani is always great.

Thorough, great personality, always asks if you have any questions.

—William D

I can't thank Dr Peyton and her team enough for the excellent care and thorough eye exam.

Each step was explained putting me at ease. i was asked if I had any questions/concerns. I left my appointment with confidence that my eye care is in the best hands. I am so hap...

Each step was explained putting me at ease. i was asked if I had any questions/concerns. I left my appointment with confidence that my eye care is in the best hands. I am so happy that Dr Peyton is my Doctor!

The office is very well run and there was no wait time. I was ushered in to a very clean, orderly exam room. I am very happy with Richlin Eye Associates from start to finish. Beautiful selection of frames as well.

—Carolyn K

They're the best!

Efficient, caring, thorough, and knowledgeable--even at a very busy time! Quite honestly, this is the same quality I've had for the many years I've been a patient here. The offi...

Efficient, caring, thorough, and knowledgeable--even at a very busy time! Quite honestly, this is the same quality I've had for the many years I've been a patient here. The office provides many services that go beyond those of other optometrists and refers patients to specialists when it can't handle an issue. They're the best!

—Ellen E
Man during eye exam

Common Symptoms of a Scratched Eye

Symptoms of a corneal abrasion often develop quickly after the injury occurs. Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp eye pain or discomfort
  • A sensation that something is stuck in the eye
  • Excessive tearing
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurred vision
  • Redness of the eye
  • Difficulty keeping the eye open

If you experience these symptoms, it is important to avoid rubbing the eye and seek professional care.

What Causes a Scratched Eye?

Scratched eyes can occur in many situations. Everyday activities such as rubbing the eyes, inserting contact lenses, or exposure to dust or debris may cause minor scratches on the corneal surface. Other causes may include fingernail injuries, foreign objects entering the eye, or accidental trauma during sports or outdoor activities.

Improper contact lens use or sleeping in contact lenses when not recommended may also increase the risk of corneal abrasions. Because the cornea is vulnerable to injury, protective eyewear and proper lens hygiene can help reduce the risk of scratches.

How a Scratched Eye Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing a scratched eye requires a detailed examination of the cornea. During the visit, the doctor carefully evaluates the surface of the eye to identify any areas of damage. The diagnostic process may include:

    Symptom and Injury History Review

    The doctor discusses when the symptoms began and whether a foreign object or injury may have occurred.

    Corneal Examination

    A slit lamp microscope allows the doctor to examine the surface of the eye in detail.

    Fluorescein Dye Test

    A harmless dye may be applied to highlight scratches or damaged areas on the cornea.

    Evaluation for Foreign Objects

    The doctor checks for any debris that may still be present in the eye. These evaluations help confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

    Treatment Options for a Scratched Eye

    Treatment focuses on protecting the eye while the cornea heals and preventing infection. Patients may also be advised to temporarily avoid contact lens use and protect the eye from bright light while healing occurs. Follow-up visits may be recommended to ensure the scratched eye treatments in Beverly Hills have properly healed the cornea.

    Gotti

    Schedule A Consultation

    Contact Us

    When to See an Eye Doctor

    An eye care professional should always evaluate a scratched eye to prevent complications. You should seek care if you experience:

    • Sudden eye pain after an injury
    • A persistent sensation of something in the eye
    • Light sensitivity or difficulty opening the eye
    • Redness and excessive tearing
    • Blurred vision following eye irritation

    Prompt treatment helps relieve symptoms and supports proper healing of the cornea.

    Doctor media

    Why Choose Richlin Eye?

    Richlin Eye provides comprehensive diagnosis and scratched eye treatments in Los Angeles for eye injuries and corneal conditions.

    • A Family Legacy of Eye Care Since 1983: Richlin Eye has served generations of patients throughout Los Angeles with trusted, relationship-focused eye care.
    • Advanced Diagnostic Technology: Modern examination tools allow our doctors to evaluate the cornea and detect even small injuries.
    • Comprehensive Eye Care in One Location: From routine eye exams to the treatment of urgent eye conditions, our team provides full-scope optometry services.
    • Trusted by Patients Across Los Angeles: Richlin Eye has earned the highest number of five-star Google reviews of any optometry practice in Los Angeles.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Scratched Eye Treatment

    What is a scratched eye?

    A scratched eye, or corneal abrasion, occurs when the surface of the cornea becomes damaged or scraped.

    Can a scratched eye heal on its own?

    Many minor scratches heal quickly, but professional evaluation is recommended to prevent infection or complications.

    How long does it take for a scratched eye to heal?

    Most small corneal abrasions heal within a few days with proper care.

    Should I rub my eye if it feels scratched?

    No. Rubbing the eye can worsen the injury and delay healing.

    Can contact lenses cause scratches on the eye?

    Yes. Improper contact lens use or inserting lenses incorrectly can sometimes cause corneal abrasions.

    When should I see a doctor for a scratched eye?

    If you experience persistent pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision after an eye injury, you should seek professional care promptly.

    Contact us media
    Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 310-276-5333.
    Contact Us