Full-thickness eyelid penetration during cosmetic blepharopigmentation causing eye injury.

Purpose: This paper aims to present a case of iatrogenic injury to the globe during cosmetic eyelid blepharopigmentation (tattooing).

Design/methods: Observational case report.

Results: A 46-year-old Asian female presented with chemosis and injection of the conjunctiva one day following cosmetic blepharopigmentation. The tattoo needle had penetrated full-thickness through the lid margin, resulting in a line of pigment along the superior bulbar conjunctiva with an associated inflammatory reaction. The conjunctivitis resolved with treatment, but the pigment remained.

Conclusion: Physicians should be aware of the potential complications of cosmetic tattooing. Some measures for the prevention of iatrogenic injury are suggested.