Should I have Collagen/Silicone in buttocks removed? (Photo)

    This is a complex issue that needs to be addressed with exam and possibly MRI.  All of the risks need to be discussed prior to considering surgery.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm really sorry you're dealing with this. Based on what you're describing, it sounds like you're having a reaction to whatever was injected, which could be silicone or possibly something else entirely, since unregulated injections often involve mixed or misrepresented substances. If you're experiencing purple discoloration, here are a few potential reasons: chronic inflammation or granuloma formation beneath the skin, causing vascular changes and pigmentation; slow tissue breakdown (common in long-term filler complications); post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation - if there was a previous flare-up, infection, or irritation. The good news is - in many cases, this is fixable, but it depends on what’s going on underneath the surface. An MRI with and without contrast must be ordered to help identify if there is in fact silicone present in those specific areas and to see how it's behaving (migrating, inflamed, etc.). If the biogel is causing inflammation or granulomas, you will most likely need surgical intervention. I have seen thousands of patients who have been victimized by illegal silicone injections. The symptoms I see range from mild to moderate to severe- requiring emergent hospital admissions. What you report is a familiar story that we here in the office- hyperpigmentation accompanied with pain in the buttocks, back, and legs. Sometimes this pain is accompanied by intermittent tingling in the extremities. Treatment is possible! After training in hospitals in The Bronx in the early '00s, I saw countless patients present to the emergency room with symptoms related to silicone disease but were not given any substantial treatment. They were given antibiotics and pain medications and sent home. It was then that I decided to pioneer the silicone removal center in New York. You can read more through the link below. Ultimately, I perform a two-stage open removal procedure (through a small incision inside the buttocks crease) with a third stage reconstructive BBL. All three stages are pre-authorized through a patient's health insurance. I only perform these procedures in a hospital setting with a dedicated team that I have handpicked to assist in these unique procedures. I believe this is a medical problem that needs real, medical treatment (in the U.S., in a hospital, with a board-certified plastic surgeon). Of course, the aesthetic component is very important, and as a plastic surgeon, I do everything I can to make sure my patients not only feel great but look great afterwards as well. Please feel free to contact my team to inquire about your particular insurance policy. 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. My Silicone Coordinator has undergone silicone removal and reconstruction and would be happy to share her silicone journey with you and see how we can help with yours. (516)279-2616

Hi Vane1289, Thank you for your question about whether you should have collagen or silica in your buttocks removed. The short answer is, "Yes, you should have the collagen and silica in the buttocks removed." You are already developing a reaction to your injected collagen or silicone. You are having a skin and scar tissue reaction. Your body is rejecting the injected silicone. Your body is trying to create scar tissue around the injected silicone and bring the silicone to the surface. That is why your skin is stained. The lump you describe is scar tissue created naturally around the injected silicone. This scar tissue has probably been converted into granulation tissue. This granulation tissue and associated silicone injections should be removed. Most plastic surgeons who are experts in silicone removal agree that you should have your collagen and silicone injections removed as soon as possible. Please find an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in this field. I hope I have answered your question about whether you should have your collagen and silicone buttock injections removed. Good luck. Sincerely, Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD