Can my silicone nose implant break and push through the tip of my nose over time? (photos)

Question

I am Thai and had my nose done in Thailand about 10 years ago. I had a silicone nose implant to make my nose look more sharp. I am concerned because I feel the implant is making the skin at the tip of my nose thinner and worry the skin will break. If I have it removed, will the stretched skin after 10 years return to normal?

Lucas Bryant, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. If you are concerned your implant may currently be close to extruding through your skin, I would highly recommend you find a facial plastic surgeon with revision rhinoplasty experience and have them evaluate you. It's much better to address this type of problem early rather than wait for an infection which greatly complicates the situation. Perhaps they will advise you that watchful waiting is acceptable, but it isn't possible to say that without an in-person evaluation. Warm regards.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Silicone nasal implants -because of their inorganic nature- may overtime extrude. If you are concerned- you may seek replacing the silicone implant with a rib cartilage graft.

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thanks for your questionOver time, silicone nasal implants can work themselves to the surface and even poke through the skin. I recommend seeing a nasal specialist who can evaluate you and assist you! Hope this helps and God Bless!Dr. Robb Jr.

A. Joshua Zimm, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, I have seen cases of extruding silicone implants in the past which required correction.  In the cases I have corrected, the skin did recover.  If you are concerned, you should have it evaluated by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty and has experience with these types of cases. Best wishes.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you move forward and consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Sean Freeman, MD · Answer

Nicka, most american trained rhinoplasty surgeons would not use Silicone in the nose for the very reason you are concerned. See an experienced plastic surgeon that specializes in "only faces" if you are concerned. See the video and good luck!

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

Skin erosion and implant extrusion is one of the long term risks of silicone nose implants. If you have it removed your skin will likely contract over time. Most patients have them replaced with cartilage grafts at the time of removal to maintain their shape. Your own cartilage will not extrude or erode your skin.

Brad M. Gandolfi, MD · Answer

Nicka,
The skin on the nose on most people thins over time naturally, and surgery increases this phenomenon. Occasionally, silicone implants can extrude through the skin. If this happens they must be removed. It is hard to tell the thinness of your skin from your pictures, but if the implant is removed, your skin will likely shrink back to its original position, without an issue. If you want to keep your projection (or definition), your best bet is to have a reconstruction with a diced cartilage graft, the natural alternative to silicone. Good luck!

Dr Gandolfi

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