What Researchers Did
Researchers reported two rare cases of permanent vision loss in patients who received hyaluronic acid injections in their ears for cosmetic purposes.
What They Found
Two patients experienced vision loss after hyaluronic acid ear injections, with one losing vision in both eyes and the other in one eye, both diagnosed with central retinal artery occlusion. Digital subtraction angiography revealed structural variations in their ophthalmic arteries, which were hypothesized as the cause. Following treatment, which included hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Patient 1 showed some vision in the right eye and light perception in the left, while Patient 2 recovered with only minor defects in the inferior quadrant of the left eye.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study highlights a rare but severe complication of cosmetic hyaluronic acid ear injections: permanent vision loss. It underscores the importance of understanding vascular anatomy before such procedures. The findings suggest that prompt treatment, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, may help mitigate some visual impairment in affected patients.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
As a case report, this study's findings are based on a very small number of patients and may not be generalizable to all individuals undergoing similar cosmetic procedures.