Cosmetic iris implants - double edge sword

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Device Safety
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Iris implants were initially intended for treating iris defects causing photophobia and glare.
• These implants are not approved for cosmetic use in healthy eyes by any regulatory body.
• Illicit use of iris implants for cosmetic purposes has surged due to beautification trends.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on complications associated with cosmetic iris implants.
• To present a case study of a patient with bilateral cosmetic iris implants experiencing severe ocular issues.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature review on cosmetic iris implants.
• Case report of a patient with bilateral New-ColorIris implants presenting with complications.
• Management involved explantation of implants and a DMEK Triple procedure.

Main Results:

• Cosmetic iris implantation in phakic eyes leads to mechanical irritation, chronic inflammation, pigment dispersion, and endothelial cell loss.
• Complications include corneal decompensation, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• The case patient presented with bilateral corneal decompensation, glaucoma, and cataracts seven years post-implantation.

Conclusions:

• Cosmetic iris implants pose significant risks and are associated with severe ocular pathologies.
• Prompt explantation and appropriate surgical intervention, such as DMEK Triple, can manage these complications.
• Highlighting the dangers of unapproved cosmetic implants is crucial for patient safety.