Can the silicone be fully removed with scar tissue? (Photos)

Question

I got permanent lip injections 10 years ago in Russia (I think it was biopolymer or bio alcamid) and I want to surgically remove it. I would like to know the approximate cost of this procedure and whether while removing the scar tissue, the silicone can be fully removed as well.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi ZamiraSc, Thank you for your question about lip silicone or possibly lip biopolymer or lip bio alcamid removal surgery.  In my practice, this is a fairly common procedure. I perform this procedure in a sterile operating room under general anesthesia.  Silicone and associated lip scar tissue are directly excised. I try to removal all the silicone as well as any associated scar tissue.  The cost of of removing silicone from the lip varies from office to office.  Also, are you looking for upper and lower lip? Please schedule appointments with several lip silicone removal specialists.  Also, this web site, RealSelf has a list of the average price for your selected procedure.  Since removing silicone from the lip is not an easy procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in removing silicone for the lip.  Among other things, I specialize in silicone removal.  Do your research.  Make sure they have performed this procedure 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.)

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Hi ZamiraSc!

Thank you for sharing that. It’s very possible to surgically remove permanent lip fillers such as silicone or biopolymer, but the approach depends on the extent and type of material, how your body has reacted to it over time, and how much scar tissue has developed around it. The first step is usually an in-depth clinical evaluation, often supported by imaging such as MRI. This helps determine how much silicone is present, whether it has migrated, if there is associated fibrosis or granuloma formation and the depth and distribution (superficial vs deep plane). If the silicone is causing persistent deformity, asymmetry, or chronic inflammation, surgical removal is the most definitive option. This typically involves a direct excision through intraoral or external approaches, depending on the location and extent. Once removal is complete, reconstructive techniques to preserve or restore lip shape can be performed. This may include autologous fat grafting from a separate donor site to the lips to restore structural integrity and functional mobility. Non-surgical management may include dermal filler augmentation (which would be temporary and need to be maintained) to restore lip, contour and correct minor asymmetry or divots following the initial excision. Given your history and description, you may benefit from surgical removal and reconstruction by a plastic surgeon experienced in silicone excision and lip reshaping. In regard to pricing, a full evaluation would be required to determine pricing. Please note - insurance can cover these procedures if your insurance plan holds out of network coverage and the procedure is deemed medically necessary.

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 complimentary virtual consultation or an in-office appointment to discuss your options. We can also check your existing insurance coverage to determine if this can be billed through your policy. (516) 279-2616.  Please remember, you’re not alone — many people have been through this, and there are paths forward. But it takes the right expertise and realistic expectations. The goal with any surgery is not just to make you look better, but to restore function and normal feeling, which you deeply need right now. Best of luck on your silicone removal journey.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Silicone biopolymers are being used throughout the world for facial and body volume augmentation. Results are longer-lasting that Juvederm or Restylane. 
Bellafill and Artefill are known to cause granulomas and permanent nodules with swelling. This is not the case for everyone. Silicone biopolymers can also cause similar chronic inflammatory conditions. 
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. 
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

Luis Lopez Tallaj, MD · Answer

The difference between real dermalfillers as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxiapatite is that they stay were we inject it and do not move, and of coirse it will absorb within a period of no more than 12 to 16 months dependind on the case and area. Alloplastic material such silicone and PMMA the invade the cells citoplasma and integrate with the closer tissues, also they migarte and causes deformitis with compromise of the micro circulation, a real nightmare. In some cases we can remove part of it, neve all of it, trying to recreate a temporal normality in the lips or someother areas of the face with the risk of severe deformities. It’s so important that prior to do cosmetic facial injections you verify the doctor choosen by you, and search about the brand of the product that this professional is pffering to you. Recently we posted a documentary in our youtube channel Lopeztallaj, Besos de plástico explaining everything involved with those ilegal injections for a real prevention. It has english subtitles.

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