The blood circulatory system of the human body is truly incredible. The heart pumps the blood that is transported to every part of our bodies by this system. It’s a vehicle that carries everything we need to live: blood cells, plasma, proteins, nutrients, hormones, gases, electrolytes, and more. Imagine a situation where a foreign object sneaks into this system—a rogue intruder that doesn’t belong. The consequences of such an invasion can be deadly. This is called an embolism, and it’s really bad news. In this article, we shall discuss what a silicone embolism is, how it happens, and what you can do to prevent it.
What Is a Silicone Embolism?
You’ve most likely heard of the term silicone in the context of plastic surgery before. But what is it really? It’s a synthetic polymer that is super versatile. Silicone can exist in a liquid, solid, or gel form and is used widely in medical procedures. Think surgical implants, reconstructive surgery, and even wound and scar treatment. If this material gets into your bloodstream, the condition is called a silicone embolism. While such occurrences are rare, they are not entirely impossible. Silicone implants can leak, causing the liquid to seep into your circulatory system. Even saline implants with silicone shells carry risks. Not to mention, silicone injections can be particularly dangerous if the plastic surgeon injecting it accidentally injects it into a blood vessel. This foreign substance can block access to vital organs. The brain, the heart—nothing is sacred. Don’t ignore this. If you have any symptoms of silicone embolism, especially after a cosmetic surgery procedure, it’s imperative to see a doctor immediately.
Signs and Symptoms Of Silicone Embolism
In case of an embolism, the signs usually don’t take too long to appear. The most common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling lightheaded
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Confusion
- Chest pain or pressure
You may develop these symptoms within a short while after a cosmetic procedure. Usually, patients constantly or intermittently display only one or two symptoms. No matter the case, this is not something you should take casually. Consult a doctor immediately.
Risk Factors and Treatment
The only way to develop a silicone embolism is if there is silicone in your body. Hence, it’s helpful to remember that any procedure involving silicone is potentially risky. In case a blockage occurs, a healthcare professional will first diagnose the cause. Even if you’ve had a cosmetic procedure, something else could be blocking your blood vessels, like blood clots. Blood clots are usually treated with blood thinners. However, there is no universally recognized treatment for silicone embolisms. Your doctor may recommend any of the following interventions:
- A blood transfusion
- Antibiotics to treat any infection
- Face down position to help with breathing
- Oxygen to facilitate breathing as well
Preventing Silicone Embolisms
Up to this point, you should know how silicone embolisms happen and why they are so dangerous. The good news is this condition is incredibly rare. But it can still happen, and there is no way to prevent it other than avoiding silicone cosmetic procedures. Unfortunately, this is not possible for everyone. Before consenting to any cosmetic procedure, talk to your plastic surgeon about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Make sure you understand what you’re getting yourself into. It is also important to select a skilled professional who is licensed and capable of performing the procedure smoothly while minimizing the risk of any complications that may arise.
Conclusion
Silicone embolisms, while rare, can be extremely dangerous, highlighting the importance of awareness and promptness. Any procedure that involves silicone carries this risk, making it vital to choose a reputed and licensed professional while also ensuring hygiene and proper aftercare. If you or someone you know shows signs of silicone embolism, get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible. By educating yourself on the causes, risks, prevention measures, and potential treatment options, you can make informed decisions to safeguard yourself and ensure your well-being.
