Need help to get silicone removed from acne scars it left me with bumps

Question

I had silicone microdroplets injected into acne scars and a month after I noticed I was getting granulomas so I had them injected with cortisone & it didn't make a difference. :( I went and got an MRI on face and I went and saw Doctor Gallerani, he said he could remove it but that it would leave a scar & I am concerned and it costs 6k, so I'm taking a risk and a lot of money. Can anyone suggest someone who is a reliable experienced remover of silicone without it leaving big scar? Thank you.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding how to remove silicone from acne scars. This is a very common problem that I deal with in the office almost on a daily basis. I have carefully removed silicone from many patients’ faces after silicone injections for acne scars. Every patient is different and requires a unique approach. In general, I place a tiny incision on top of the silicone droplet.  Then, I remove the silicone and associated scar tissue.   This may take a few rounds to get all the silicone depending on the situation. If there are multiple small balls of silicone throughout the face smaller than 1 millimeter, this may take several sessions. Usually, 10-20 balls can be removed in one surgical setting. However, if there are 1-2 larger silicone balls measuring 1-2 centimeters in diameter, this usually requires surgery under general anesthesia. The procedure may take 1-2 hours depending on where the silicone is located. If it is located just underneath the skin, it is easier to remove. If the silicone has been injected closer to the bone of the face, it is more difficult to remove. Thank you for your question on what to do regarding removal of silicone injections to acne scars.

I specialized in silicone removal and subsequent reconstruction with fat grafting and/or implants.  I am the lead investigator and founder of the Silicone Removal Institute. Since removing silicone is a big procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in removing silicone.  Do your research.  Make sure they have performed at least 100 silicone removal surgeries and have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, silicone removal surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Complications from silicone biopolymers, Artefill, Bellafill, PMMA, and biopolimero should be addressed by an expert in the field.  
In my practice, I specialize in the removal of Bellafill and Artefill injections, in addition to silicone biopolymers, from the face and body. Initially, treatments are non-surgical with corticosteroids and immune modulators. If unable to be corrected, we can also perform surgery in some cases. 
Patients should undergo biometric screening, clinical assessment of Karamanoukian Grade of Soft Tissue Reaction, and ultrasound examination. 
Silicone biopolymers can also be removed from the body if there are signs of migration or inflammation. All of these filler-types should be removed as early as possible. 
Lastly, our office is conducting ongoing studies of plasma-assisted corticosteroid application, which allows for diffusion of the treatment medication in superficial tissue without causing atrophy. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Dr G sounds like the average experienced remover of silicone. The fee and potential scarring are very in line with what would be charged by any boarded PS in Florida. In fact I think the risks are very high therefore the fees are in line.

Need help to get silicone removed from acne scars it left me with bumps

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Need help to get silicone removed from acne scars it left me with bumps

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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.