LATE EXTRUSION OF ALLOPLASTIC ORBITAL FLOOR IMPLANTS

Complications following the use of alloplastic orbital floor implants are well documented but it is not widely recognised that these can occ ur many years after initial treatment. Three patients who presented wi th late extrusion of an implant through the facial skin are reported. This complication occurred 10, 16 and 17 years respectively after trea tment of the orbital floor fracture. The tissue reaction to silicone r ubber and Teflon inplants is reviewed and the possible cause for this late complication is discussed.