Biopolymer Removal
The aim of this surgical procedure is to remove as much of this material as possible. Currently, there is no method that allows the removal of these substances in their entirety, since they adhere firmly to the tissues.
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Before explaining what biopolymer removal consists of, we will explain what they are and why they are so harmful to your health.
Biopolymers
Biopolymers are macromolecules of different origins, derived from petroleum, of vegetable origin and others of synthetic origin that are sometimes used illegally in the field of plastic medicine as tissue filler material (tissue of the organism). Most are of synthetic origin, and usually derived from silicone; most often they are sold under the name of polyvinyl methacrylate or polymethyl siloxane (liquid silicone).
Why does injecting biopolymers cause serious health problems?
When they come into contact with the receptor tissue they can trigger an excessive local inflammatory reaction; there is also the possibility that these substances migrate to other parts of the body different from the site of application, compromising vital organs and even causing death.
The reaction of the tissues to the infiltration of this type of products can be acute or even delayed. Cases of complications have been known to appear up to twenty-five years later.
How is the biopolymer removal procedure performed?
The appropriate type of surgery for the extraction of biopolymers will be defined according to the degree of tissue involvement and the location of these, likewise, the results will depend on the amount and type of substance injected, its consistency, the degree of deformity that has occurred in the area, the damage to the skin and deep tissues that are present, and also the reaction that this biopolymer has produced in neighboring tissues.
Each case requiring biopolymer removal must be studied individually; although the main objective is to remove as much of these substances as possible, leaving the affected area as natural as possible, it is never possible to remove them completely because these biopolymers migrate to neighboring tissues or even to distant sites.
Biopolymer removal surgery seeks to alleviate inflammatory and autoimmune symptoms, it has no aesthetic purpose; usually more than one surgery is needed according to how compromised the tissues are and the amount of substances injected.
What type of anesthesia is used?
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia to provide greater patient safety.
Postoperative care
- Avoid straining and lifting heavy objects.
- Perform physical exercise one month after surgery depending on pain tolerance and recovery of each patient.
- Clean the treated area very well.
- Maintain a drainage for at least 10 days after surgery.
- Total rest for at least two weeks so that the treated area can recover quickly.
- It is recommended to walk the following days after surgery and prevent prolonged sedentary lifestyle.
- Avoid exposure to the sun, especially when the procedure has been performed on the face or in exposed places.
- Take or apply the medications ordered by the surgeon in the corresponding schedules.
- Do not take any medication that has not been recommended by the surgeon.
- Walk fifteen minutes every hour, this in order to prevent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
- Attend medical check-ups when they are scheduled.
- Watch for signs of possible infection in the surgical wound such as: redness, heat, inflammation, pus discharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two surgical techniques for removal: open surgery, which involves larger incisions to access and remove the biopolymers, and closed surgery, which uses smaller incisions in specific areas where the biopolymers are concentrated.
The choice of these two techniques depends on the location and extent of the biopolymers, as well as the surgeon's assessment.
If you have any of these symptoms it is important to consult a specialized plastic surgeon for an evaluation. Signs of an apparent complication may include:
- Lumps.
- Persistent swelling in the area where the biopolymers were injected.
- Pain.
- Changes in skin texture and adverse reactions.
