Ultrasound‐assisted liposuction for the removal of siliconomas

Abstract

In the past, the traditional methods of removing siliconomas have been excision of the affected tissues or suction of the injected silicone. Unfortunately siliconomas are often found in exposed areas, where it is undesirable to leave visible scars, and suction is technically difficult and often unsuccessful because the affected tissues are so hard. Because we have used ultrasound‐assisted liposuction for other procedures since 1984, it seemed logical to find out whether this technique would be useful to remove siliconomas. We have used it in three such patients, ranging in age from 36 to 84 years. Our mean follow up is 38 months (range 18 months–4 years). We have found that it results in improvement in all patients. The only problem was a minor burn at the entrance port in one patient.

• liquid silicone
• siliconoma
• ultrasound‐assisted liposuction
• scanning electron microscope