An analysis by plastic surgeons at Hutt Hospital has found violence is the leading cause of facial fractures in the lower North Island.
The team at Hutt Hospital studied all facial fracture cases over a two-year period: violence caused 42% of the cases, sporting injuries 32% and car accidents 7%.
Alcohol was a factor in almost half of all cases.
The team says dealing with the results of violence delays other important reconstruction operations.
Surgeons say behaviour, particularly among young men, must change and a greater focus on violence may be needed.
