Silicone Migration From Breast Implants: A Case of Ocular Siliconoma and Literature Review

Abstract

Abstract Background Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery operations performed worldwide. Complications of breast implants are well recognized, and include capsular contracture, implant rupture, and infrequently distant migration of silicone, resulting in siliconoma. Distant migration of silicone can present many years after implantation with a wide variety of signs and symptoms. Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the authors’ experience of orbital silicone migration and to review the literature describing documented cases of distant silicon migration from breast implants, both ocular and nonocular. Methods In January 2022, a case of breast implant augmentation presented with silicone migration into the right orbit. This rare case was monitored and diagnosed with ocular muscle palsy and diplopia. Here, the authors present the patient's presenting complaint, symptomatology, working investigations, and outcomes. A comprehensive report of all available cases of distant silicone migration is presented along with their associated complications and more specifically ocular silicone migration. Results Systemic migration of silicone from breast implants to the orbital region is extremely rare: a total of 4 previous cases of ocular silicone migration from breast implants have been described previously; the authors describe the fifth case herein. Conclusions Silicone implant rupture can present with a wide variety of clinical symptoms that may mimic different clinical pathologies. In every patient with a history of breast augmentation with silicone implants, the possibility of silicone migration should be always taken into consideration during the differential diagnosis process. Level of Evidence: 5