Mycobacterium mucogenicum infection following a cosmetic procedure with poly-L-lactic acid

The emphasis on the preservation of youth is ever apparent as new antiaging products, cosmetic procedures, and advertising campaigns aim to address new ways to prevent the natural aging process. Many individuals prefer noninvasive surgical procedures involving minimal downtime and a speedy recovery. Although these cosmetic procedures are considered minor, complications do arise and infections can occur. While many species of bacteria can cause these infections, one such species that is usually over looked and can cause these infections are the atypical mycobacteria. Early diagnosis is important, as these infections can rapidly progress into more serious skin manifestations. We present a 31-year-old female with a 3-month history of a nonhealing ulcer on her cheek that started approximately 2 weeks following a cosmetic procedure with an injectable filler. This patient represents an uncommon complication that may occur in patients subjected to multiple facial injections, as their susceptibility to infection and secondary biofilm formation increases with their current and future injections. This case review highlights the growing number of cosmetic procedures in our society, the most common complications of these treatments, an emerging complication concerning the formation of biofilms, as well as a review of the literature on atypical mycobacteria infections.