Unintentional macular injury following high-energy cosmetic laser calibration

Unwelcome hair has become a significant issue encountered in our society by young people, particularly young women. Hair removal has been achieved through various methods, both mechanical, with intense pulse light therapy and laser photoablation of hair follicles using various energy delivery systems. There is a relative paucity of clinical trials comparing the safety and efficacy of various hair removal modalities. A comparative study between alexandrite, diode, and intense pulsed light (IPL) was conducted and found similar safety profile across all three modalities. Several adverse effects have been noted as a result of this therapy. Laser-assisted hair removal can lead to ocular anterior segment and/or retinal injury. A laser beam directed toward the eye may easily penetrate both the eyelid or the cornea and cause catastrophic ocular injury. Unfortunately, regulation and licensing of the use of laser-assisted hair removal devices has not yet been well elucidated nor standardized across Australia. There are few cases in the literature reporting retinal burns following inadvertent laser injury, with even fewer directly involving the macula. We report a case of unilateral anterior uveitis and a macular defect following inadvertent laser exposure, leading to photophobia and pain, and reduced visual acuity.