Micro-Focused Ultrasound Treatment for Periocular Skin Leading to Corneal Leukoma With Iridocyclitis: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND

Micro-focused ultrasound (MFUS) converts the mechanical energy of high-frequency vibrations into thermal energy and induces collagen remodeling through thermal effects to achieve skin tightening and lifting. However, when employed for periocular skin treatment, MFUS carries a potential risk of ocular injury, which deserves high attention from cosmetic surgeons.

AIMS: This article reports a case of a young female patient who developed transient visual acuity decline with iridocyclitis and residual corneal leukoma after MFUS treatment on the periocular skin.

PATIENT: A 32-year-old female patient underwent facial MFUS treatment at a cosmetic clinic to improve facial skin laxity. During the treatment of the right periocular skin, the patient developed right eye pain and visual acuity decline. The patient was treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and glucocorticoids in the right eye and followed up for 3 months. The visual acuity of the right eye improved, but a permanent corneal leukoma persisted.

RESULTS

While MFUS treatment targeting the periorbital area can improve skin laxity, it poses a risk of corneal injury and iridocyclitis. After the treatment, the iridocyclitis resolved, but a permanent corneal leukoma remained.

CONCLUSIONS

Periocular MFUS treatment carries the risk of irreversible thermal damage to ocular tissues. Cosmetic surgeons must strictly determine the intensity threshold for periocular MFUS and ensure proper application of eye-protective devices.