Periorbital lipogranuloma after facial injection of autologous fat: A retrospective study of 18 cases

Abstract

Objective:

To investigate the clinical features of patients who develop periorbital lipogranuloma after injection of autologous fat.

Methods:

This retrospective case series included 18 patients who developed a periorbital mass or swelling after undergoing injection of autologous fat for facial augmentation. The patients’ medical records were reviewed for clinical history, radiologic findings, and treatment outcomes.

Results:

All patients were women aged 24 to 50 years (mean, 31.6 years). Five patients (27.8%) involved both orbits. Presenting eye symptoms were a palpable mass (61.1%), eyelid swelling (44.4%), and ptosis (16.7%). The interval between the final injection and onset of eye symptoms ranged from 1 to 36 months (mean, 11.5 months). Thirteen patients underwent radiologic imaging. Fifteen patients received only one injection of autologous fat and three received two injections with the cryopreserved fat used in the second injection. Surgical excision was performed in 12 patients to remove the mass and identify the pathologic abnormalities. No recurrence was found during 1 year of follow-up. Two of the six patients who had refused treatment showed spontaneous resolution at the 6-month visit.

Conclusion:

Periorbital lipogranuloma after facial injection of autologous fat should be considered as a specific orbital disease entity for which MRI is an effective examination method. Surgery is warranted for this condition when conservative treatment is ineffective.