Complete Vision Recovery After Filler-Induced Blindness Using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Abstract   Injecting soft-tissue fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, has become an extremely popular method of facial augmentation. Although rare, adverse effects, ranging from cosmetically dissatisfactory to dangerous, may occur. The most severe adverse effect of these is vascular occlusion of the central retinal artery, resulting in vision loss. Protocols for the treatment of filler-induced blindness have not been well established, but there is evidence to suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may aid in the therapeutic algorithm for filler-induced blindness. We present a clinical case of filler-induced blindness successfully treated with prompt administration of HBOT. A 38-year-old healthy female presented to the emergency room after immediate pain and complete vision loss following an at-home injection of mail-order filler into the left glabella and medial eyebrow. After treatment with hyaluronidase and ocular massage, neither of which relieved her symptoms, she received HBOT within 10 h of the injury, after which her vision improved significantly. After 2 additional sessions, the patient had complete vision recovery. This case report contributes to the very sparse literature documenting successful treatment of filler-induced blindness using HBOT, advocating for further study, and possible incorporation into the treatment algorithm for filler-induced blindness. Improper soft-tissue filler administration possesses a potential risk of severe adverse effects. It is crucial that the medical community is aware of treatments that offer the highest chance of visual recovery and sustained benefit for patients. Level of Evidence: 5