“It was a mistake, but a lesson learned. I hope my story can help others.”
TEAH
Silicone injections or silicone “pumping”: These injections under the skin to pump, plump, or fill areas with silicone or other substances are typically done by unlicensed, unqualified people who are looking to take advantage of someone.
They are not only illegal but dangerous and potentially lethal.
There are safer alternatives performed by licensed medical practitioners that are often affordable and possibly covered by health insurance. The creators of this booklet do not support silicone pumping and discourage people from this but feel it is important to include the process for information.
One community member was willing to be interviewed about her personal experience with silicone injections:
Silicone injections are not only illegal, but dangerous—and potentially lethal
Teah (Interviewee)
Jasmine: What was the reason you decided to get silicone ejections?
Teah: I decided to do it because I really wanted to be more feminine and have more woman like qualities. I wanted hips, a fuller face and certain things to make us look more “fishy”*. When you are in transition, you really want to look less “hard” and soften up more. If you look softer it is easier to begin being more accepted in society. When you look more feminine you get more respect from men and women. You have given yourself the qualities you need to move forward with your transition.
Jasmine (Interviewer)
Jasmine: What are the areas you had silicone?
Teah: I have had both sides of my face done. I have also had injections in my butt cheeks on both sides.
Jasmine: How did you hear about silicone?
Teah: I went to a friend’s house and they were having a silicone injection party.
Jasmine: Were you aware of the risk?
Teah: In the beginning I was not aware of the risk. I did not know that whenever you have it done; you are not supposed to bleed. I did bleed when I had it done, so that means it went into my blood.
Jasmine: Have you had any side effects or reactions from the procedure?
Teah: A month and a half later I started getting all of these bumps where I had gotten the injection. My skin is really sensitive, and it has caused major problems with my skin. I get cellulitis.
Jasmine: Was the person who administered the silicone injections a licensed medical professional?
Teah: No, they were not.
Jasmine: When did you first receive silicone injections?
Teah: In Dallas, after Katrina, (15 years ago).
Jasmine: How did silicone affect your life both pre and post procedure and what are the long term affects that silicone has had on your body?
Teah: After all this time I still have effects. The silicone moves around, and it creates issues. It has created all these bumps and abrasions in my skin. It comes and goes too. It will be fine but flare up really bad. It is really difficult for me. I have been to the doctor for treatment, but they cannot really help me. I have tried antibiotics and steroids, but it does not help. It affects my blood, and the silicone moves to certain spots and kills the skin. It was a mistake, but a lesson learned. I hope my story can help others.
"I decided to do it because I really wanted to be more feminine and have more woman like qualities. I wanted hips, a fuller face and certain things to make us look more “fishy”*. "
anonymous
"After all this time I still have effects. The silicone moves around ... it has created all these bumps and abrasions in my skin. It is really difficult for me. I have been to the doctor for treatment, but they cannot really help me. ... It was a mistake, but a lesson learned. I hope my story can help others."