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Bilateral irreversible severe vision loss from cosmetic iris implants.
Mathew K George1, James C Tsai, Nils A Loewen
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 40 Temple St, Suite 3D, Rm 375, New Haven, CT 06510-2715, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|February 12, 2011
Summary
Cosmetic iris implants can lead to severe vision loss from neovascular glaucoma and central retinal vein occlusions. Early detection and removal of implants are crucial to prevent irreversible damage.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical device safety
Background:
- Cosmetic iris implants are used for aesthetic purposes.
- Complications associated with iris implants are not well-documented.
Observation:
- A 25-year-old woman developed bilateral neovascular glaucoma and central retinal vein occlusions after cosmetic iris implantation.
- The patient presented with significantly reduced visual acuity and elevated intraocular pressure in both eyes.
- Examination revealed neovascularization of the iris and angle, synechial angle closure, and glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
Findings:
- Despite aggressive treatment including intravitreal bevacizumab, panretinal photocoagulation, and glaucoma drainage devices, severe permanent bilateral vision loss occurred.
- The adverse outcomes were directly linked to the presence of cosmetic iris implants.
Implications:
- There is a strong recommendation against the use of anterior chamber iris implants for cosmetic reasons.
- Patients with cosmetic iris implants require close monitoring for adverse reactions.
- Prompt explantation of iris implants should be considered upon the earliest signs of complications.
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