Ophthalmoplegia with skin necrosis after a hyaluronic acid filler injection

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Jun;19(6):1307-1310. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13403. Epub 2020 Apr 12.

Abstract

Hyaluronic acid filler injection is commonly used for aesthetic purposes. However, many clinicians neglect the possibility of developing vascular occlusion and its devastating sequelae. Besides visual loss after iatrogenic ophthalmic artery occlusion, ophthalmoplegia without blindness is rare but may occur. Here, we report a 23-year-old woman with ptosis, lateral deviation of the right eye, and skin necrosis after hyaluronic acid filler injection. After hyaluronidase injection and steroid pulse therapy, ptosis and eye movement were completely restored. Skin necrosis was treated with a human epithelial growth factor ointment, followed by Nd:YAG laser. Complete healing with minimal scar was achieved.

Keywords: hyaluronic acid filler; necrosis; oculomotor nerve palsy; ophthalmoplegia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cosmetic Techniques / adverse effects*
  • Dermal Fillers / administration & dosage
  • Dermal Fillers / adverse effects*
  • Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Face
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyaluronic Acid / administration & dosage
  • Hyaluronic Acid / adverse effects*
  • Lasers, Solid-State
  • Low-Level Light Therapy
  • Necrosis / etiology
  • Necrosis / therapy
  • Oculomotor Muscles / diagnostic imaging
  • Oculomotor Muscles / drug effects
  • Ophthalmoplegia / etiology*
  • Ophthalmoplegia / therapy
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Dermal Fillers
  • Hyaluronic Acid