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

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Thank you for your post and questions. The decision to remove and/or replace breast implants can be a difficult and personal one, as there are often several factors to consider. An MRI is the best test to detect a gel rupture, and it is about 95% accurate, but it would likely not find or locate "flecks shedding" off an implant. Breast implants do not last forever, as they are not lifetime devices. If you are having symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, firmness or other symptoms, be sure to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for an appointment and evaluation of options for you. Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Benjamin J. Cousins MD
Triple Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Miami/Miami Beach FL