Is it dangerous to liposuction silicone from your butt? (Photo)

Question

I have previously had silicone and pmma injected in my butt on two separate occasions. I was wondering if it was safe to have the products Lipo suctioned out followed with a bbl all in one surgery? If this is not safe please explain why?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I have performed many of these procedures safely. I would, however, not advise a BBL as you would be adding more fat into inflamed tissue, making it harder to remove the material completely. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianRealself100 Surgeon

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Hi Michelley.N

Thanks for the question—this is really important and unfortunately not uncommon. Silicone and PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) are permanent fillers that integrate into your tissue over time. They’re not enclosed in a capsule like implants—rather, they disperse into the surrounding fat and connective tissue. Liposuction cannot effectively remove silicone - these materials don’t stay in one place. They often migrate or spread diffusely. Unlike fat, silicone and PMMA aren’t in a distinct layer you can "suck out" with liposuction. Liposuction stirs things up. Attempting to liposuction these substances can cause them to rupture into smaller pieces or spread further. You risk inflammation, granulomas, nerve damage, and serious infections. The safest, most effective approach is to surgically excise the material in stages. Only when optimal amounts of silicone/PMMA are removed, can you then proceed with a reconstructive BBL. This is typically done within 3-6 months apart to allow inflammation to settle and tissues to stabilize.

I am a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a specialized focus on silicone and biopolymer removal. 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 two-stage surgical excision process and a third stage of reconstruction (often referred to as a reconstructive BBL). This approach is designed to ensure the most complete removal possible while minimizing risks and optimizing patient outcomes. I'd be happy to see you for a clinical evaluation whether it be complimentary virtual consultation or an in-office appointment to discuss your options. My Silicone Coordinator has undergone silicone removal and reconstruction and would be happy to get the ball rolling to see how we can help.  (516) 279-2616

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

HI Michelley, Thank you for your question regarding whether it is too dangerous to liposuction silicone from buttocks. The short answer is “yes and no”. One needs an experienced, board-certified, plastic surgeon who is well trained in the removal of silicone from the buttocks. Traditional liposuction technique with a regular cannula will not work to remove silicone by suction alone from the buttocks. I use a very advanced technique that I developed over the past 20 years.  My technique includes 3 key components to remove silicone from the buttocks: ultrasound, VASER liposuction, and the use of a custom silicone removal cannula.  During the procedure, first, I use an ultrasound to locate the silicone and associated scar tissue. Second, I use a VASER cannula to melt the scar tissue and scar tissue around the silicone.  The VASER does NOT melt silicone.  Third, I use a custom cannula for strong aspiration or suction to remove silicone scar and silicone liquid. I have been successfully able to remove large silicone balls measuring 1.5 centimeters by 1.5 centimeters. Whether, you undergo surgery or suction, not all the silicone can be removed.  Also, whether, you undergo surgery or suction, there is only minor spreading of silicone.  The way I perform this procedure, suction of the silicone does not cause any more spread than surgery.  Thank you for your question regarding whether liposuction is dangerous to remove silicone from the buttocks.
In most cases, silicone, PMMA, and biopolymer injections and associated scar tissue must be removed as soon as possible.  Silicone and PMMA removal is no easy surgery, so please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in removing silicone and PMMA from the buttock.  I specialize in silicone and permanent filler removal from the buttocks and other body parts.  I am a lead investigator and founder of the Silicone Removal Institute.   If you cannot find an experienced, silicone or permanent filler removal surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Is it dangerous to liposuction silicone from your butt? (Photo)

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Is it dangerous to liposuction silicone from your butt? (Photo)

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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.