Is it possible that I'm allergic in silicone? (Photo)

Question

Because i get infected last year then they remove it. My cousin hit my nose then it get infected is that the reason or maybe the tools in cosmetic clinic they use was not sterilized? My nose is not pointed because I'm asian.

Thomas J. Walker, MD, FACS · Answer

The infection is not due to an allergy. Silicone is a foreign body and any foreign body implanted into the nose or elsewhere in the body has a risk of infection, extrusion, and implant mobility. Although the implant itself was likely sterile at the time of placement, nasal surgery itself is never completely sterile but rather clean contaminated, meaning that at the time of surgery some bacteria get introduced into the nose. That's why we typically given post-operative antibiotics to prevent an infection. Most of the time, this is not a problem (even with implants such as silicone, Medpor, or GoreTex). However, in some cases the implant may get infected with subsequent facial trauma and a small break in the skin or even through the nasal hair follicles, bacteria can get into the nose and infect the implant. Once infected, it needs to be removed. This the reason why your own cartilage (septal, ear, or rib) is a much better and safer choice than utilizing an implant from an infection, extrusion, or mobility perspective as it gets incorporated into the body as your own tissue. However, this comes at the expense of some donor site morbidity and risks, which can be minimized in the hands of an experiences surgeon. There are pros and cons to everything. Hope that helps. Best wishes!

Sahar Nadimi, MD · Answer

It sounds like you experienced an infection from the silicone implant rather than an allergic reaction. Unfortunately there is a risk of infection with all nasal implants. The risk of infection is lower when your own cartilage is used for nasal augmentation rather than an implant, but no matter what material is used (your cartilage vs silicone implant), there will always be a risk of infection associated with the procedure. I recommend seeing a facial plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty for a proper exam and to discuss treatment options.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

You are not allergic to the silicone implant.   You simply had an infection and the implant needed to be removed in all likelihood.    Should you still want the implant in your nose you can try one year after removal or better yet use cartilage or bone.  My Best,  Dr Commons

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