Inadvertent Intrastromal Injection of Hyaluronic Acid Cosmetic Filler Into the Cornea

Purpose: The aim of this study was to report a case of inadvertent injection of cosmetic hyaluronic acid skin filler into the cornea, the consequences of the injection, and its initial management and long-term follow-up. Methods: Case report. Results: A 34-year-old woman underwent a cosmetic hyaluronic acid filler injection into the superior eyelid sulcus of the left eye, resulting in complete penetration of the eyelid and injection of the filler into the corneal stroma. The patient experienced decrease in visual acuity, moderate pain, and astigmatism. At 1 month after cosmetic injection, surgery with intrastromal hyaluronidase injection was performed to remove the filler from the corneal stroma. The patient was then observed for 9 more months. Conclusions: Partial removal of hyaluronic acid and improved visual acuity were achieved with surgery. However, some cosmetic filler remained at 10 months after injection, indicating that complete surgical removal was not achieved in this case.