Ocular Complications Arising from Cosmetic IPL Therapy

Case Overview

This case involves a 30-year-old male patient who received cosmetic facial treatment focused on scarring on their cheeks. The patient previously underwent similar procedures but was surprised to find that a radiofrequency device was being used during their latest visit. After incurring additional costs, the patient ultimately received intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy from an unlicensed technician. Following the treatment, the individual developed several ocular issues, including blepharitis, hemorrhaging in their eyes, severe permanent dry eyes, and diminished visual acuity. The legal team seeks expert ophthalmological insight to review the medical records and provide opinions regarding causation and damages.

Questions to the Ophthalmology expert and their responses

Please describe your experience with IPL therapy and the Venus Versa machine.

I have over 25 years of experience as a neuro and general ophthalmologist, and for the past 6 years, I have performed noninvasive cosmetics in my office. While I have not used the Venus Versa itself, I have used IPL and have also seen patients with ocular complications after IPL.

How often do you see patients with ocular complaints following a cosmetic treatment such as with the use of an intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser?

I have seen patients with ocular complaints following a cosmetic treatment such as with the use of an intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser as a result of the IPL being administered through the lid, which resulted in an injured iris and inflammation.

About the expert

This expert has over 20 years of experience in the field of neuro-ophthalmology. She obtained her BS from the University of Texas at Austin and her MD from Baylor College of Medicine. She completed her residency in ophthalmology at The University of Texas Medical Branch and a fellowship in neuro-ophthalmology at The University of Texas Medical Branch. This expert is board certified in ophthalmology. She is a member of the Texas Ophthalmological Association and the North American Neuro-ophthalmology Society. This expert previously served as a neuro-ophthalmologist at Charles Garcia M.D. and Associates, a neuro-ophthalmologist at Columbus Eye Associates, an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry, and a neuro-ophthalmologist at Surgical Eye Associates. Currently, she serves as a neuro-ophthalmologist for a local vision group in Texas and is an attending physician at a regional surgical center in Texas.

E-044011

Specialties:

Ophthalmology