What is Silicone Removal?
Silicone, a permanent synthetic substance, is not FDA-approved for cosmetic purposes and can therefore have detrimental effects on your health and wellness. Any procedure in which silicone, or any other unknown non-surgical substance, was injected directly into the buttock region by an unlicensed professional could have lasting and damaging results; such as skin loss, necrosis (premature death of tissue), hardening of the area due to an excessive build-up of scar tissue, and in some extreme cases fevers and organ failure. Therefore, it is important to have this non-FDA approved substance removed from the body to avoid serious complications.
The Silicone Removal procedure, also known as debulking, entails one of our board certified surgeons removing as much tissue mass from the buttock region as possible, while still leaving enough tissue behind to maintain volume, shape, and sufficient blood supply. Over time, the non-medical grade substance will absorb into the surrounding tissue, making it impossible to remove the substance in its entirety. Therefore, a patient should expect silicone removal of up to 80%. Once the area has been debulked, the patient may have drains inserted; this allows for excess fluid to be drained from the surgical site post-operatively.
What complications may arise from non-FDA approved Silicone Injections?
- skin discoloration
- skin loss
- tissue death (necrosis)
- skin hardening
- high fever
- organ failure
How long is the recovery time?
Your recovery time can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks, depending on the severity of your complications prior to and following surgery. You will be advised to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks or sleeping on your back as this can put pressure on the surgical site and impede proper healing. Your drains will need to be emptied every few hours.
When can I return to work?
If no complications arise following surgery, you may return to work in as little as four weeks. You may be advised to bring a pillow or soft seat covering for your chair if you will be sitting for extended periods of time, otherwise you may resume all normal activity.
