Asymptomatic Stroke After Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injection: Case Report and Literature Review

Vascular compromise and blindness are reported but rare complications of facial soft tissue filler injections. Stroke is an even rarer complication resulting from intraarterial injection of fillers. We present a case of a patient suffering all 3 complications following hyaluronic acid filler injection: forehead skin vascular compromise, unilateral blindness, and ipsilateral subclinical strokes. Were it not for a stroke workup protocol, the incidental strokes may have otherwise gone undetected, suggesting the incidence of stroke from intraarterial injection may be higher than reported. Further, we review the literature and recommendations for prevention and management of threatened tissue ischemia and vision loss from facial filler injection.

Automated summary

Complications such as vascular compromise, blindness, and stroke can occur following facial soft tissue filler injections, with stroke being a particularly rare but severe complication. Prompt stroke workup protocols are crucial for early detection and management of these complications to prevent long-term consequences.