Long-term complications of cosmetic iris implants

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Devices
• Cosmetic Surgery

Background:

• Additive cosmetic iris implants are used for aesthetic iris color change.
• Long-term safety data for these anterior chamber devices are limited.
• Previous studies linked implants to early complications like corneal decompensation and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).

Observation:

• A 41-year-old woman presented with bilateral blurred vision 15 years after cosmetic iris implant surgery.
• Examination revealed corneal edema, iris atrophy, pigment dispersion, and elevated IOP in the right eye.
• Anterior segment OCT showed implant decentration and angle closure tendency.

Findings:

• Cosmetic iris implants can remain asymptomatic for years before causing complications.
• Implant decentration, pigment dispersion, and angle closure are key factors in delayed complication onset.
• The patient's implants negatively impacted corneal endothelium and anterior chamber angles, causing secondary ocular hypertension.

Implications:

• Ophthalmologists must consider the potential for late-onset complications from cosmetic iris implants.
• Long-term monitoring is crucial for patients with these devices.
• Understanding risk factors like implant position is vital for managing potential adverse events.