Silicone Lymphadenopathy Following Augmentation Mammoplasty With Silicone Implants

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Radiology

Background:

• Silicone implants are prevalent in breast augmentation, yet complications like silicone lymphadenopathy (siliconoma) persist.
• Siliconoma, a notable concern, has been insufficiently addressed in current medical literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize axillary siliconomas.
• To identify potential risk factors for siliconoma development to guide preventative strategies.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted from 2011 to 2021.
• Preoperative ultrasound examinations were used to identify and categorize siliconomas in 614 women.

Main Results:

• The incidence of siliconomas was 13.6%, with implant rupture being a major risk factor (OR = 6.342).
• Mentor (OR = 3.047) and PIP (OR = 3.475) implants, older implant age, and severe capsular contracture were independently associated with higher siliconoma rates.
• Older patient age and subpectoral implant placement also correlated with siliconoma presence.

Conclusions:

• Implant rupture, specific manufacturers (Mentor, PIP), and severe capsular contracture are key risk factors for siliconoma.
• Surgeons must counsel patients on silicone migration risks, especially those with identified risk factors.
• Enhanced surveillance for siliconomas in high-risk patients is recommended, with prophylactic implant management considered.