Intrasinus Penetration of a Silastic Malar Implant, which Resulted in Chronic Sinusitis: A Case Report and Literature Review

BACKGROUND: Malar augmentation is a common cosmetic procedure utilizing silastic materials. We describe an uncommon complication of a silastic implant eroding into the anterior maxillary sinus wall resulting in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). METHODS: A literature review is presented describing the presentation, surgical management and outcome of this uncommon adverse event. RESULTS: An 80 year old female with a history of bilateral cosmetic malar implants placed approximately 25 years ago presented to our office with a 4-5 month history of left-sided symptoms consistent with chronic sinusitis, and was found to have intrasinus penetration of her left malar implant. Only one other case series of 5 cases in 4 patients is reported in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: Intrasinus malar implant migration is a rare complication of malar augmentation. The present experience suggests that removal of the offending foreign body often results in successful symptom resolution.