Silicone 1000 granulomas on face - how can this be treated?

Question

10 years ago I had some silicone 1000 injected into my smile line and 2 months ago I developed a cyst where the silicone was injected. Within 1 month later I developed another bump looks like a cyst or granuloma? I am desperate to find someone in the NYC area who is an expert in treating this silicone complications. Please please help.

Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I have been using silicone oil injections for the last 25 years. Silicone granulomas are very uncommon with silicone 1000, however they do occur.  They are easily treated with a Kenalog Injection from an experienced dermatologist or plastic surgeon. I see that you are in the New York area.  David Orentriech is an experienced dermatologist who has a lot of experience with silicone injections.  I would give his office a call.

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Hi Helpplease23!

I'm sorry to hear about the complications you're experiencing following your silicone injections. Silicone granulomas can indeed be challenging, but there's help! I am a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York with a specialized focus on silicone and biopolymer removal of the face and body. 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 meticulous surgical excision process. This approach is designed to ensure the most removal possible while minimizing risks and optimizing patient outcomes. I would be happy to discuss this further and arrange the appropriate imaging to develop the best surgical plan for you. Please keep in mind, insurance can cover these procedures.  Please give us a call (516) 279-2616 to schedule a complimentary virtual or in-office appointment.

Best,
Jeremy Nikfarjam, MD PC
Board Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Silicone biopolymers are commonly used in the face and body. They may sometimes cause noticeable symptoms that we gauge using the Karamanoukian Soft Tissue Reaction Grading Scale from I to V. The severity of your complications dictates the interventions needed, ranging from itching and burning to severe necrosis of the soft tissue. Nerve pain and symptomatic swelling is also possible. Insurance may cover your surgery, but that is a discussion that requires you to contact and appeal to your insurance carrier. Options for removal are complex and depend on whether you have the material in your face or body. We reverse BBL with silicone commonly and remove silicone from the lips very commonly. Diffuse silicone in the face is not likely to respond to removal. Filler migration, swelling, and granulomas can cause significant discomfort and cosmetic ramifications. Our office specializes in the use of enzymes and filler reversal techniques without hyaluronidase to help improve the results of botched cosmetic fillers, whether caused by Juvederm, Restylane, or foreign fillers. We can also test for the material to determine the likelihood of silicone granulomas and silicone reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out about your concerns regarding complications from silicone 1000 injections in your smile lines and around your mouth. It's crucial to address these issues promptly to prevent further complications.

Silicone 1000 injections for soft tissue augmentation are not recommended due to the potential for adverse reactions and complications. These may include extensive scarring, fibrosis, granulomas, and chronic infections, which can lead to serious autoimmune diseases and other health problems.

Given your situation, I understand your urgency in finding an expert in silicone complications in the NYC area. I recommend seeking out a certified plastic surgeon who specializes in silicone removal procedures. Removing silicone from the face is a complex process that requires expertise and experience.

I encourage you to research and find a plastic surgeon who deals with silicone removal regularly. They will assess your specific case and provide you with appropriate treatment options.

Best wishes in finding the right specialist to address your silicone complications effectively.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Silicone 1000 granulomas on face - how can this be treated?

Answers (4)

Answer: Seeking Expertise for Silicone 1000 Complications in NYC

Answer: Seeking Expertise for Silicone 1000 Complications in NYC

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Everything you need to know about Silicone Injection Removal

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Silicone 1000 granulomas on face - how can this be treated?

Answers (4)

Answer: Seeking Expertise for Silicone 1000 Complications in NYC

Answer: Seeking Expertise for Silicone 1000 Complications in NYC

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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.