The procedure will vary based on the magnet size and installation location. This guide is targeted at small sub-centimeter magnets. For larger ones, the process is the same as aesthetic silicone implants, and the operation should only be carried out by experienced installers.

Preparation and tools

Follow the same preparation as any minor operation. All implanted magnets must be sterile and implanted with sterile equipment.

Beware of steel tools, as magnets will stick to them. Test your tools in advance with another magnet or make sure to have plastic tools at your disposal.

The goal will be to create a pocket by first making an incision and then detaching the skin on one side. Then the magnet is slid inside, and the wound is closed.

While healing, the pocket will shrink from the back towards the incision and will tend to push the implant towards the exit, hence why we make the pocket slightly deeper than necessary. A magnet pushing against the inside of the incision will prevent it from healing and will most likely reject.

Do not touch or scrape the magnet with sharp tooling. While titanium is hard, scratches on the surface can allow bacteria to multiply undetected inside the body.

Numbing is left to the installer’s discretion. Lidocaine injections will prevent any pain, but may be illegal or difficult to get. Numbing patches and creams will only partially numb the area. Alternatives like ice or tourniquets can work to an extent, but must be performed safely.

The procedure

Once the location has been marked and the skin prepared, proceed to make a straight incision slightly longer than the width of the magnet (1-2mm more). The incision must be at least 4-5mm away from the desired magnet location.

Depending on the size use either the scalpel blade or a dermal elevator to detach the skin all the way to the desired location, forming a U shaped pocket.

Slide the magnet inside and make sure to push it all the way to the end. Apply some pressure to expel blood and air from the wound and settle the magnet.

If the incision is small enough, it can be closed with medical glue or a steri-strip, but in most cases, one or multiple stitches are recommended.

*Aftercare

Keep the wound clean and covered for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the incision. It can be cared for like any regular cut.

Avoid using the magnet for lifting or sensing during the first couple of months, but especially while the wound is closing. Minimal movement will result in the best healing.

Swelling is to be expected, and even if it is not visible, it can impact performance for months after the install. This means the magnet can get stronger up to 6 months after the installation.

If the area becomes red, hot to the touch, creates a sharp pain when touched, or swells excessively, immediately consult a medical professional. These are signs of infection.

If the magnet is visible through the skin, moves around a lot, or is pushing against the entry wound, see your installer for advice. It might have to be removed and re-positioned, or it can settle down with time.

*Risks

No matter how clean and well-placed a magnet implant, like any subdermal, poses a risk of infection and/or rejection. Consult a medical professional if you have any doubts.

We are aware that due to regulations or a general apprehension of body mods in your area, medical professionals might refuse to deal with biomagnets or be intentionally or unintentionally unhelpful. In such cases, seek advice and help from your installer, the magnet vendor, or experienced community members. Do not let a failed install degenerate.

*Removal

The removal process is straightforward:

Locate the magnet and make an incision along the side of it. If it isn’t adhered to the tissue, it might slide out with some pressure. If not, use a scalpel to carefully detach it from the top and bottom layer while regularly trying to push it out. Sterile medical tools can be used to grab it and pull it if necessary.

The wound can then be closed similarly to the installation process.

*Recommendations

Holding metal objects

Do not leave anything stuck to the magnet for more than ~30 minutes, even if there is no pain and the pressure isn’t high. The pinching will deprive your skin of blood, and it can provoke necrosis if not careful.

MRI compatibility

While people have undergone MRIs with magnets, and online sources might state otherwise, we strongly discourage taking MRIs with unprotected magnets.

First, talk to your doctor and/or the MRI technician. They will most likely come up with an alternative imaging technique, like X-rays, or advise you on how to proceed if the MRI is strictly necessary.

We recommend carrying a medical card (can be printed) in your wallet in case you are found unconscious or unable to communicate. Medical professionals will always look for those in your pockets. On it, clearly state that you have MRI-incompatible magnets and their location.