Keeping It Together: What are silicone injections? Why some celebrities are getting them removed

Hi everyone! Hope you're having a lovely start to your weekend.

It's Wellness reporter Jenna Ryu. This week, I'm here to talk about silicone injections.

On Monday, Blac Chyna revealed she got hers removed after learning about possible health consequences. Silicone injections, often called "butt shots," rely on permanent dermal fillers to create the appearance of a "plump" or "lifted" look in the buttocks – which the FDA specifically advises against.

"I just want all the ladies out there to know: do not get silicone shots," she warned her 16 million followers in a series of Instagram videos posted earlier this week. "You can get sick, you can die, have complications, and all this other crazy stuff.”

Despite the growing popularity of the trendy, affordable and "quick" Brazilian butt lift alternative, previously mentioned by stars like Cardi B, experts warn about its dangers. 

For instance, "the injectible silicone oil (breaks) off into smaller particles throughout the body, possibly causing permanent damage and life-threatening complications such as stroke, embolism and even death," says Lisa Vasquez, a board-certified aesthetic nurse practitioner at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery. Other complications may include infections, inflammation, chronic pain, swelling, nodule formation, skin discoloration and scarring.

Click here to read more about the controversial beauty trend. And while you're here, check out some other great reads from our wellness section this week!