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Complications after polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) injections in the face: a literature review
Clarissa C G Medeiros1, Karen Cherubini, Fernanda G Salum
1Oral Medicine Division, São Lucas Hospital - Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Objective:
This article is a review of the several types of complications due to facial fillers containing polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).
Background:
Polymethylmethacrylate facial fillers are used to soften the results of the ageing process and to augment tissue. Although considered safe for the most part by advocates, they have been associated with many adverse reactions such as ecchymosis, haematomas, swelling, itching, erythema, hypertrophic scarring, hypersensitivity, palpable nodules, tissue necrosis, blindness and foreign body granuloma.
Materials And Methods:
The articles presented in this review are the result of a search and selection of literature from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database, which met the inclusion criteria for the study.
Conclusion:
Polymethylmethacrylate is widely used because it is inexpensive, readily accessible and simple to apply. However, some complications are severe and permanent and can be confused with other types of stomatological lesions.
Insights
Facial fillers with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) can cause severe, permanent complications like tissue necrosis and blindness, despite their common use for anti-aging. Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial for managing these risks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Plastic Surgery
- Aesthetic Medicine
Background:
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) facial fillers are utilized for anti-aging and tissue augmentation.
- Despite perceived safety, PMMA fillers are linked to numerous adverse reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the spectrum of complications associated with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) facial fillers.
- To highlight the potential for severe and permanent adverse outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature search and selection from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database.
- Inclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies for this review.
Main Results:
- Adverse reactions include ecchymosis, hematomas, swelling, erythema, scarring, nodules, necrosis, and blindness.
- Foreign body granulomas and hypersensitivity reactions are also reported complications.
- Severe and permanent complications can mimic stomatological lesions.
Conclusions:
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is favored for its cost-effectiveness and ease of application.
- The potential for severe, permanent complications necessitates awareness and careful management.
- Distinguishing PMMA filler complications from other oral lesions is critical for proper diagnosis.