Ophthalmic Complications Following Facial Autologous Fat Graft Injection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

• Autologous fat (AF) filler injections are increasingly used for facial aesthetics.
• This rise in popularity has led to a concerning increase in ophthalmic complications, including vascular compromise and blindness.

Approach:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PROSPERO guidelines.
• Literature search of Cochrane, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases (2000-2021) identified 34 relevant articles.
• Included studies comprised case reports, case series, and retrospective/prospective cohort studies.

Key Points:

• The forehead was the most common injection site.
• Periorbital swelling was the most frequent initial symptom (92.7%).
• Ophthalmic artery occlusion occurred in 50.4% of AF injection-related complications.
• Conservative management was employed in 51.38% of cases.
• Complete improvement was achieved in 80.57% of patients.

Conclusions:

• Despite a generally favorable safety profile, AF facial injections carry risks of severe ophthalmic complications.
• A thorough understanding of potential complications, symptomatology, and management is crucial for practitioners.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are key to achieving favorable outcomes in these cases.