Is it necessary to remove lymph nodes containing silicone?
Silicone naturally is taken up by the lymphatic system and travels into the axillary lymph node system and often can be detected on ultrasound exams. I have seen many patients on the detoxification program have silicone move through the lymphatic system, and I feel that unless the lymph node is abnormal (i.e., tender and/or enlarged) removal is probably not necessary and may be detrimental in that scarring from surgery can disrupt the fine lymphatic channels that drain the breasts. Enlarged, firm or tender axillary lymph nodes should be removed if possible. Patients with silicone implants have an increased risk of a malignant lymphoma probably due to the carcinogenic chemicals within the gel, so removal of enlarged abnormal axillary lymph nodes will probably decrease this risk. Removal of several lymph nodes in the lower axilla is not associated with increased risk of lymphedema of the arms.
