Posterior Butt Lift and Open Silicone Removal After Silicone Injections*

Our patient, a 39-year-old Hispanic female, came to Dr. Timothy Katzen after suffering escalating pain, burning, itching, discoloration, and suspected migration from illegal foreign body buttock injections.  Because migrated material can sit in multiple pockets and keep triggering inflammation, Dr. Katzen recommended an open silicone injection removal with a posterior butt lift so the problem tissue could be seen directly, removed thoroughly, and the contour could be rebuilt in the same operation.  Under general anesthesia, Dr. Katzen made a carefully planned posterior incision to access the involved layers, then methodically separated healthier tissue from the inflamed, injected tissue.  Using an open approach allows precise removal of diseased, silicone-laden tissue rather than relying on blind suction, which is important when symptoms are worsening and the product may have traveled.  In her case, Dr. Katzen removed 7 pounds of injected tissues, which helps reduce the source of irritation and pressure that can make sitting and daily movement uncomfortable.  After removal, he focused on reconstruction by tightening deeper support layers, excising loose skin, and lifting the posterior tissues to create a smoother transition from the lower back into the buttock region.  The incision was closed in layers to support strength and healing, and postoperative compression and close follow-up were used to manage swelling and fluid as the tissues settled.  These photos were taken one month after surgery, and even at this early stage, her results are remarkable, showing improved contour and a healthier appearance while the area continues to calm and refine with ongoing healing.