If you have received illegal silicone injections, you might wonder what can be done to help mitigate the health problems associated with liquid silicone. One option may be silicone removal and reconstruction. Silicone removal and reconstruction are commonly performed in two distinct phases.
Phase 1 involves removal of the silicone. Because liquid silicone migrates, many patients require removal of the silicone in several staged surgeries. For this same reason, it’s rare that 100% of the silicone can be removed. However, patients typically report medical benefit and improvement in functional symptoms when most of the silicone is removed. There are several different surgical approaches that can be used. Sometimes silicone removal can be accomplished with large diameter liposuction cannulas. Other times, incision(s) must be made with a scalpel to remove the silicone and granuloma/scar tissue. Many times, both liposuction cannulas and direct incision are performed during the same procedure.
Phase 2 involves reconstruction after most of the silicone is removed. Reconstruction is often needed because the area typically appears “saggy.” This is why reconstruction commonly focuses on lifting and tightening. Classically, patients required an extended seagull-shaped incision that is placed on the upper buttock below the bikini line. This incision starts in the gluteal crease and then extends upwards and laterally in a curvilinear fashion. This approach lifts the buttocks vertically but does put larger scars across the upper buttocks. In contradistinction, less conspicuous scars are possible using the Miami Thong Lift approach. The Miami Thong Lift places the scars vertically in the intergluteal crease. Note, some patients may only require fat grafting to correct for the lost volume after silicone removal. For certain patients that prefer to avoid additional liposuction and fat grafting surgeries, our practice offers the latest cutting-edge technology—specifically, Renuva® and Leneva® fat matrix injections. These products are long-lasting FDA-approved adipose matrix fillers. These injections are performed in the office without a scalpel or general anesthesia.
Before embarking on this journey, Dr. Desrosiers will carefully consult with you to develop a custom surgical plan and explain the process in detail. Silicone removal consultations are comprehensive and can be 1 to 3 hours. During this visit: 1) a detailed medical history will be taken; 2) imaging such as an MRI (MRA/ MRV to evaluate vascularity) may be reviewed or ordered; 3) wound cultures may be taken to help select appropriate post-operative antibiotic coverage; 4) Phase I and Phase II surgical markings will be drawn on the patient to discuss scar placement; and 5) post-operative wound care such as a possible wound VAC will be discussed.
At the conclusion of the visit, you will be given a quote for the removal, reconstruction, and associated costs. While patients pay out-of-pocket for these procedures, we recommend that all patients have health insurance to cover items by third party vendors, such as pre-operative imaging, blood work, wound cultures, and prescription medication from the pharmacy.
To help ensure the best scar outcome, Dr. Desrosiers employs a meticulous approach. First, understanding each patient’s unique response to sutures is important. During the consultation, Dr. Desrosiers and his staff will seek to understand your medical history, including any prior procedures and experiences with stitch abscesses or rejection, to tailor the surgical approach accordingly. Second, Dr. Desrosiers uses preoperative photos and marks the patient while standing, leaning, and lying down. He refers to these photos intraop and then uses a custom tailor tacking approach aimed at delivering precision. Third, Dr. Desrosiers may utilize slowly dissolving or permanent sutures beneath the skin to prevent scar widening until wound remodeling has transformed weak Type 3 collagen into more robust Type 1 collagen. Fourth, Dr. Desrosiers almost always requires the use of compression garments, not only to alleviate swelling but also to provide support to the tissues, minimizing tension on the scar line. Lastly, our practice offers cutting-edge treatments such as activated collagen gel, advanced silicone scar gel, and laser scar therapy, which have shown remarkable efficacy in promoting seamless scar formation for many patients.
Dr. Desrosiers understands that each patient is unique and requires individualized care. With his expertise and dedication to achieving exceptional results, Dr. Desrosiers is committed to guiding you through your silicone removal journey with confidence and support.
To learn more about silicone removal or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Desrosiers, please contact us at 305-403-2922 or concierge@ArthurMD.com. Let Dr. Desrosiers help you achieve the body of your dreams with advanced body contouring techniques and personalized caret.
Providing Cosmetic, Reconstructive, & Craniofacial Plastic Surgery in Miami and West Palm Beach.