Removing Silicone Lips – Treatment of Complications and Long-Term Effects
Silicone in the lips? We can help with complaints and corrections
Many patients still have liquid silicone in their lips—often injected 10, 20, or even 30 years ago.
Nowadays, in some countries, it is even used on the breasts and buttocks.
What was once intended to be a permanent lip augmentation often leads to problems today.
If you are considering having silicone lip implants removed or are experiencing discomfort, we will provide you with personalized, medically sound advice.
Why do silicone lips need to be removed?
Liquid silicone is a permanent foreign material. It is not broken down by the body and can lead to delayed reactions.
Common reasons for removal:
• Lumps (granulomas)
• Hardened lips
• Pain or a feeling of pressure
• Recurrent swelling
• Asymmetry
• Implant migration
• Chronic inflammation
These symptoms can occur even decades after the initial treatment.
Is it possible to completely remove silicone from the lips?
That’s one of the most common questions.
Important to know:
Complete removal is not always possible.
Silicone can:
• spread throughout the tissue
• become encapsulated
• migrate into fine tissue structures
The goal of treatment is therefore usually:
• Reduction of areas of inflammation
• Removal of hardened areas
• Improvement of lip shape
• Relief of symptoms
Treatment is tailored to each individual.
How does the treatment work?
1. Thorough examination
• Clinical examination
• High-resolution ultrasound
• MRI diagnostics as needed
This is how the exact location of the silicone is determined.
2. Individualized treatment planning
Depending on the findings, the following options may be considered:
• Corticosteroid therapy for granulomas
• Anti-inflammatory treatment
• Antibiotic therapy for signs of infection
• Surgical partial removal of the silicone
Not every patient needs surgery right away.
3. Surgical removal of silicone
In cases of severe stiffness or chronic symptoms, surgical correction may be advisable.
The goal is:
• Removal of inflamed silicone areas
• Improvement of lip contour
• Restoration of natural softness
The procedure is performed with precision and is gentle on the tissue.
What happens after the silicone is removed?
Depending on the initial condition, the following options are available:
• Healing without further volume treatment
• Gradual augmentation with hyaluronic acid (after stabilization)
• Combination with a surgical lip lift
• Shape correction based on an individualized treatment plan
Which option is best depends on the fabric quality and your preferences.
A lip lift as an alternative to another volume-enhancing treatment
Especially after experiencing complications with silicone implants, many patients are looking for a permanent solution that does not involve foreign materials.
A surgical lip lift can:
• lift the upper lip
• reveal more of the lip line
• improve the shape of the lips
• achieve a natural rejuvenating effect
No filler material is used in this process.
Why is experience particularly important when it comes to silicone lips?
The treatment of complications involving foreign bodies differs significantly from a standard lip augmentation procedure.
The following are required:
• Experience with soft tissue surgery
• Knowledge of granulomatous reactions
• Accurate diagnosis
• Realistic patient counseling
Not every change can be addressed immediately from an operational standpoint—an honest assessment is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Silicone Removal
Is the surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or twilight sedation.
Will there be any scars?
Incisions are made in places where they are as inconspicuous as possible. Scars are usually barely visible.
Will the problems come back?
If any material remains, further reactions may occur. The goal is long-term stabilization.
Advice on complications related to silicone implants
If you would like to have silicone lip implants removed or are experiencing any discomfort, please feel free to schedule a consultation.
Early diagnosis can prevent further damage and improve treatment options.