Complications after polyacrylamide hydrogel injection for facial soft-tissue augmentation in China: twenty-four cases and their surgical management.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Polyacrylamide hydrogel has been used for soft-tissue augmentation for more than 10 years. Although it is considered a nontoxic, nonimmunogenic material, complications after polyacrylamide hydrogel injections during facial soft-tissue augmentation have been reported. METHODS: Between 2003 and 2009, 24 patients underwent surgical management of complications after facial soft-tissue augmentation. Histories, preoperative imaging, and photographs of operations were recorded. RESULTS: Complications included hematomas, infection, nodule formation, and migration. Ultimately, 23 of 24 cases underwent surgery to remove the gel; the remaining case underwent surgical drainage to remove it. CONCLUSIONS: As more complications have been reported, especially ones that are difficult to treat, the safety of polyacrylamide hydrogel needs to be reconsidered. The authors' experiences provide methods to remove polyacrylamide hydrogel if complications occur. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, V.