How to Remove Elicon Breast Injections?

Question

I had some kind of Breast Augmentation through injectable fillers called Elicon five years ago. What are procedures or treatments to remove this? I've had some complications to my health. I’m worried that sometimes I feel some small nodes on my left near the armpit and around both breasts. I am worried and that is why I want to have it removed. What safe procedure can you recommend for me? Please help.

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing this, and I understand how concerning and overwhelming this must feel. You're not alone! Many people who have received injectable Elicon/silicone or unknown substances for breast or body augmentation have experienced complications, especially as time passes. Elicon/silicone injections are not FDA-approved for breast/body augmentation and are often performed outside of formal medical settings. These substances can migrate from the injection site (causing nodules near the armpit or chest wall) and can trigger chronic inflammation, granulomas, or autoimmune-like symptoms. Nodules near the armpit suggests possible migration or lymphatic involvement. The gold standard for managing complications from injectable silicone in the breasts is surgical excision performed by a plastic surgeon who specializes in foreign material removal. The excision process carefully removes silicone deposits, granulomas, and any contaminated breast tissue. This may include lymph node sampling or excision if migration has occurred. It is of utmost importance to look for a surgeon who has extensive experience excising foreign material and granulomas, especially from the breasts and lymph nodes. Not all plastic surgeons deal with this. An MRI with silicone-specific sequences can help map the extent and location of material, as it is the best source of imaging for any disorder of the soft tissues. While granulomas can be benign, it's wise to rule out malignancy and confirm the diagnosis histologically, especially since it has been years since the injections. Based off of your MRI results, you may benefit from surgical excision of the granulomas and affected nodes. Removing the bulk of the foreign material can greatly reduce inflammation and long-term risks. It's important to document any new symptoms (fevers, fatigue, breast changes or skin issues). It's also important to remember that many women were misled or not fully informed about the dangers of these injections. Seeking treatment now is brave, and you're doing exactly what you need to do to protect your long-term health. I am a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a specialized focus on silicone and biopolymer removal. Over the years, I have dedicated my practice to safely addressing complications arising from these materials. Recognizing the unique challenges they pose, I developed a removal and reconstruction technique that is designed to ensure the most complete removal possible while minimizing risks and optimizing patient outcomes. I'd be happy to see you for a clinical evaluation whether it be a complimentary virtual consultation or an in-office appointment to discuss your options. Please note – insurance can cover these procedures if your plan holds out of network coverage. My Silicone Coordinator can look into existing coverage during your initial call. (516) 279-2616 Best of luck on your silicone removal journey. We're here to help if you need us!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question regarding how to remove silicon breast injections. Fillers should not be injected into the breasts. It is difficult to tell what was precisely injected into the breast without a definitive biopsy. They may have told you it was silicon but injected something else. Typically products like silicone are injected into the breasts. These toxins are heavily reactive in the breast tissue. They cause inflammation, migration, and inflammation of lymph nodes, especially in the armpit. These are the symptoms I believe you are experiencing. I would highly suggest you have these worked up with an MRI. This will determine the extent of the silicon injections into the breast. Since they are causing you so many problems, I would suggest you have these breast masses and lymph nodes removed. During the procedure, an incision is made underneath the breast, and the breast tissue and inflamed masses are directly removed. Typically the lymph nodes are also removed. Breast reconstruction can be done at the same time or be done in a different setting. Breast reconstruction typically requires a breast implant. This can be performed at the same time as removal or delayed approximately 4-6 months after the procedure. Please seek medical care to evaluate these silicon breast masses as soon as possible.
Sincerely, 
Dr. Katzen

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Treatment of silicone fillers into the breasts can cause lumps and lymph node inflammation.  These lumps can be removed after a mammographic or MRI screening is performed. Surgery90210

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Sung,
Elicon, as I mentioned in answer to your last question, is a liquid silicone product that was used in the 1950's and 1960's, when it was injected into the breasts for augmentation. It was frought with complications, some of which you are now experiencing. The lumps in your armpit probably represent lymph nodes that the liquid has traveled to causing a granulomatous (inflammatory) reaction. 
Unfortunately, because the liquid travels and diffuses through tissue very readily, it becomes widely dispersed, making removal EXTREMELY difficult. You may be better off leaving it alone. Or, see a qualified plastic surgeon for a consultation and discussion about your options. Good luck!

How to Remove Elicon Breast Injections?

Answers (4)

Answer: Elicon removal is extremely difficult

Answer: Elicon removal is extremely difficult

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How to Remove Elicon Breast Injections?

Answers (4)

Answer: Elicon removal is extremely difficult

Answer: Elicon removal is extremely difficult

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Silicone Injection Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.