Musculoskeletal (MSK)GeneralEducationTrainee

Ultrasound “Snowstorm Sign” Reveals Silicone Gluteal Injections

UC Davis Radiology (YouTube)Jun 21

Silicone injections in gluteal tissues produce a characteristic ultrasound “snowstorm” appearance: an enlarging mass with dirty posterior acoustic shadowing and no internal vascularity. Recognizing this sign can prevent misdiagnosis.

  • Teaching video demonstrates the classic sonographic findings of subcutaneous silicone, often seen after cosmetic gluteal augmentation.
  • The “snowstorm” sign includes dirty shadowing and avascularity, helping differentiate from neoplasm or abscess.
  • Awareness is critical in patients with a history of silicone injections to avoid unnecessary biopsy or intervention.

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