Are there tests that can detect silicone in the body after removal?

Question

What tests can be done to detect silicone in parts of your body after explant? I have textured implants and concerned about flecks shedding and slow gel bleed. Which test would be most beneficial to pay for so I understand how much exposure I have had over the last 9 months and my chance at recovery from BII as I understand silicone never leaves your body and can travel through lymphatic system all around my body. Thermography, CT Scan, MRI scan, Ultrasound ? Thank you

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Concerns about silicone exposure and the potential effects of breast implants, particularly textured implants, are valid, especially for those experiencing symptoms related to Breast Implant Illness (BII). Please see the attached video that specifically answers your question.

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear BAquestions23 thank you for your question.

Mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRI scans are indeed valuable tools for detecting implant rupture or silicone migration prior to removal. However, after explantation, there are currently no specific diagnostic tools designed solely for detecting silicone presence in the body. It's essential to rely on comprehensive medical evaluation and discussions with your healthcare provider to address any concerns regarding silicone exposure and support your recovery process.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @BAquestions23, thank you for your question. Following removal of ruptured silicone breast implants, there isn't a specific test that can definitively confirm that every trace of silicone has been removed. During breast implant removal, the fibrous capsule that forms naturally around the implant must be completely excised (a procedure known as a total capsulectomy). This procedure takes skill, knowledge and experience from the surgeon performing the procedure. Best wishes!

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS),Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.  American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS),Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The test with the highest sensitivity would be an MRI, but even this test cannot guarantee that every particle of silicone would be detected.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Silicone is more prevalent than just in implants. It is in cosmetics and even some foods, and silica is in our bones.  there are no blood test that mean anything for silicone.  If you are looking for old gel silicone that may have leaked out of the capsule and into tissue and lymph nodes, a mammogram will show this.

Are there tests that can detect silicone in the body after removal?

Answers (5)