What Are the Side Effects of Silicone Injections?

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding the side effects of silicone injections, particularly in the nasolabial folds. This is a very important topic, as many patients are unaware of the risks associated with injectable silicone used as a filler.

First and foremost, injectable silicone is not FDA-approved for cosmetic use in areas like the nasolabial folds, lips, buttocks, or face. While silicone is FDA-approved in certain medical-grade implants (like breast or testicular implants), free silicone injections are considered permanent and potentially dangerous, especially when injected improperly or in non-medical settings.

How Long Does Swelling Last After Silicone Injections?
Swelling from silicone injections can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the amount injected, the depth of the injection, and the body’s reaction to the material. However, since silicone is a permanent filler, the tissue may remain chronically inflamed or irritated, causing recurrent swelling months or even years later.

Side Effects of Silicone Injections (Especially in the Face):
Chronic Swelling or Inflammation – Your body may treat silicone as a foreign substance, leading to prolonged swelling, redness, and tenderness.

Granuloma Formation – This is one of the most common complications. Granulomas are hard lumps that form around the silicone as the body attempts to wall it off.

Migration – Unlike temporary fillers, silicone can migrate from the injection site and settle in surrounding tissue, leading to asymmetry or distortion.

Infection or Skin Breakdown – Because silicone is not absorbed by the body, it can create an environment where infection is more likely and harder to treat.

Permanent Disfigurement – Over time, silicone may harden or distort the treated area, creating an unnatural or sunken appearance that may worsen with aging or weight loss.

Difficult Removal – Once silicone is injected, removing it is extremely difficult. Most removals require an open excision or serial debridement, which can result in scarring.

How Long Do These Side Effects Last?
Unfortunately, many of these side effects can be long-term or even permanent without proper treatment. Some patients develop complications years after the initial injection.

If you’re currently experiencing swelling or other issues after silicone injections, it’s important to seek help from a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in silicone removal. Treatment may involve medications (like steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs), imaging studies to locate the silicone, or surgical removal, depending on the severity of symptoms.

Thank you again for raising such an important question. If you are considering treatment or removal, please consult with a specialist who is familiar with managing silicone injection complications.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FASMBS, FICS
(Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and President of the American Board of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons)

In theory, silicone is an inert facial fillers with minimal risk of developing foreign body reaction. However, the number of documented cases of silicone reaction, silicone inflammation, silicone deformity, and sensitivity to injected silicone is enormous.The first step in dealing with silicone problems is to identify the exact source of the silicone injected.Was it medical grade?Where was it manufactured?What is the lot number and expiration date?Was sterile technique adhered to?Once this information is acquired, the two components of silicone deformity need to be addressed separately:Inflammatory phaseForeign body fillerTreating silicone deformities is difficult. That is why most physicians, including those in realself.com advise patients not to receive the injections in favor of temporary fillers.

Silikon-1000 is a permanent filler, so your results, good or bad, are permanent. You must find a board-certified dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon experienced with the micro-droplet technique. You should also have a discussion with your doctor about the FDA's position with respect to using Silikon-1000 in an off-label fashion to permanently reduce the appearance of your wrinkles. Lastly, you should see many before and after photos demonstrating beautiful results before you pick your doctor and proceed.
Problems with Silikon-1000 injections are infrequent, and include visible bumps or nodules at the sites of injection. This is typically from overcorrection, or injecting too superficially. Most silicone bumps are easily treated with dilute triamcinolone injections, or sometimes light electrosurgery.
I've attached a link to my Silikon-1000 photos for your perusal.
I hope this helps, and best regards.