[Injectable silicon--long term sequelae after use in plastic surgery]

The injection of fluid silicone was formerly an acceptable therapy for recontouring post-traumatic or age-related changes of the face and neck. About 20 years after the use of silicone injections, the number of patients presenting with late complications is increasing. Such complications include migration of the silicone, granuloma formation, chronic cellulitis, skin ulcers and and scarring, all of which are difficult to treat medically or surgically. Recent data in the literature support the notion that fluid silicon is a potential carcinogen. These patients require a careful approach combining the limited surgical possibilities with the support needed to live with such a problem. Using a case report as an example, we discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic problems associated with this phenomenon which is relatively uncommon in Europe.