A man was cut across the cheek and tongue in a savage attack.

The 33-year-old was left with “life-changing” wounds after being slashed across the face.

He was rushed to Royal Sussex County Hospital after the attack on last night (May 10) where doctors initially feared for his life because he lost so much blood from severed arteries in his cheek and tongue.

Although his condition is no longer life threatening, a police spokeswoman said the man will now need “extensive surgery” to repair the damage.

The attack happened at a top-floor flat near the Vogue Gyratory on Lewes Road at around 6pm on Thursday.

Police were called and the victim was found standing outside the address soaked in his own blood.

Detective Sergeant Leon Ryan from Brighton CID said the motive for the attack remained unclear.

He said: “When we got to the address there was a serious amount of blood and the man's injuries were very severe.

“We don't know exactly what sort of weapon was used although it inflicted slashing wounds.

"We're also not sure exactly what happened yet because the victim hasn't been able to tell us.

“We would appeal for anyone with information about what happened or who witnessed a disturbance to come forward.”

Police cordoned off the area to traffic for four hours and scene of crime officers examined the flat for evidence overnight.

A barman at the Gladstone pub opposite the flat said: “The whole place was shut off for hours with lots of police cars.

“They weren't letting anyone in so it was pretty concerning because we didn't know what was going on.

“It's really disturbing to have an attack like that happen in our area. It's a friendly neighbourhood round here full of students and you just don't expect something that shocking to happen.”

Police are appealing for anyone who may have in the area of Lewes Road between 6pm and 6.45pm to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 1371 of 10/05.