Oil Droplet in the Eye: Rare Ocular Complications After Facial Fat Grafting to the Tear Trough

Autologous facial fat grafting is a widely accepted technique for facial rejuvenation with a low complication rate. However, rare ocular complications may occur following periocular injections. This retrospective case report describes two patients who developed anterior segment ocular fat deposition following autologous facial fat grafting involving the tear trough region. Clinical records, operative details, ophthalmologic findings, management and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. Written informed consent for publication was obtained from both patients. We report two cases of unusual ocular complications after tear trough fat grafting performed using standard harvesting, processing and low-pressure blunt cannula injection techniques with established anatomical safety precautions. A 33-year-old woman developed ocular pain, redness, photophobia and anterior chamber fat globules on postoperative Day 10, requiring surgical evacuation with preservation of vision. A 43-year-old woman developed intraoperative subconjunctival and anterior chamber fat deposition with normal visual acuity; surgical irrigation led to complete recovery. Neither patient showed retinal or ophthalmic artery occlusion. These cases describe rare anterior segment ocular complications following tear trough fat grafting despite adherence to accepted safety principles. Prompt ophthalmologic evaluation and timely intervention resulted in favourable visual outcomes. Surgeons should remain vigilant for postoperative ocular symptoms and counsel patients regarding these uncommon but significant complications.