Ultrasound Guided VASER-Assisted Silicone Removal for Pain and Infection Relief*

Our patient is a 23-year-old White female who came to Dr. Timothy Katzen after experiencing pain, a history of infections, and symptoms consistent with ASIA syndrome following foreign body injections to the buttocks and hips. These types of injections can lead to chronic inflammation, firmness, discomfort, and immune-related reactions that often worsen over time. To help address both the physical symptoms and the underlying cause, Dr. Katzen performed a closed silicone injection removal using an ultrasound-guided VASER-assisted technique under general anesthesia. This advanced silicone removal procedure is designed to treat affected areas through small access points rather than a large open incision. During surgery, Dr. Katzen first introduced a tumescent solution to help expand the tissue planes, reduce bleeding, and improve the precision of removal. He then used VASER ultrasound technology to gently loosen and break apart the silicone-laden material and inflammatory fluid from the surrounding tissues. The ultrasound energy helps separate the foreign material from healthier tissue in a controlled manner, which can improve both safety and contour outcomes. Once the material was adequately mobilized, Dr. Katzen used specialized cannulas to carefully remove the disrupted silicone and inflammatory debris from the buttocks and hips. This step is performed methodically to reduce the burden of foreign material while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The goal of closed silicone injection removal is not only to improve contour but also to reduce pressure, inflammation, and pain associated with retained product. After the procedure, our patient was placed in compression to help manage swelling and support healing as the tissues settle. These photos were taken 20 days after surgery, so this is still an early stage of recovery. Even so, her results are already remarkable. Most importantly, our patient reports that she feels relief from most of her pain, which is one of the most meaningful outcomes in treating complications from foreign body injections.