Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene augmentation of the lower face

Laryngoscope. 1996 May;106(5 Pt 1):658-63. doi: 10.1097/00005537-199605000-00027.

Abstract

Most options for rejuvenation of the lower face use soft-tissue fillers that augment the appropriate sites. Each of these options has associated risks and benefits. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (E-PTFE) as a soft-tissue filler in the face. From January 1991 through December 1993, the authors used E-PTFE soft-tissue patches for lower facial augmentation in 41 patients at 115 implant sites. Postsurgical follow-up has ranged from 2.5 to 4.5 years; during this time, complications have occurred in 4 patients. One implant had to be removed because of a seroma (1 patient), 4 implants required further secondary augmentation (2 patients), and 1 implant required revision because of malposition (1 patient). There have been no cases of implant infection, extrusion, long-term inflammation, or capsule formation. In this article, the authors review the technical aspects of E-PTFE use and discuss issues relating to the long-term efficacy of this new option for soft-tissue augmentation. The technique is also compared with other options for rejuvenation of the lower face.

MeSH terms

  • Face / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Lip / surgery
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene / therapeutic use*
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Surgery, Plastic / methods*

Substances

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene