PurposeTo analyze a new bioresorbable orbital implant (open-celled polylactic acid, also known as OPLA).MethodsThe implants were examined macroscopically, with chemical analysis (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), and microscopically with scanning electron microscopy. Animal implantation of OPLA implants was carried out in 9 adult male New Zealand albino rabbits. Implant vascularization was evaluated by histopathologic sectioning.ResultsThe OPLA implant is porous and lightweight but fragile. Histopathologically it stimulated primarily a multinucleated giant cell granulomatous reaction with little fibrovascular ingrowth seen at 4 and 8 weeks. By 20 and 24 weeks, the implant was replaced predominantly by necrotic debris and peripheral giant cells.ConclusionsThe OPLA implant is not an acceptable alternative to other currently available orbital implants.