The wayward implant: Orbital silicone plate extrusion associated with squamous epithelial downgrowth and infection

Abstract

We report an unusual case of orbital implant migration in which the silicone plates were found to be enveloped in a pseudocapsule surprisingly infected and lined by squamous epithelium of probable conjunctival origin. An epithelial ‘plug’ found in the inferior fornix portion of the pseudocapsule might have been responsible for bacterial entry into the cavity. We discuss the literature regarding pseudocapsule formation around silicone implants and the phenomenon of capsular contracture. Both the infection and the epithelial downgrowth may have facilitated the implant migration.