Resolution of cosmetic buttock injection-induced inflammatory reaction and heart failure after excision of filler material

Abstract

We present a case of a 66-year-old woman who developed heart failure and severe inflammatory reaction after the illicit cosmetic injections of polymethylmethacrylate or polyacrylamide hydrogel from a primary care provider. After medical optimization, an en bloc excision of all injectable materials and gluteus muscle was performed, which resulted in exposure of bilateral sciatic nerves. Within 10 days, the patient's heart failure resolved and inflammatory state improved. This is the first known report of heart failure due to buttock injections and subsequent improvement after surgery.