Question:
Are Gore-tex implants the best option for implants for the nose when performing a rhinoplasty? I’m going to need an implant in the bridge of my nose.
Answer:
The answer to your question is debatable. Some surgeons would prefer an alloplastic implant such as Gore-Tex to augment the dorsum and others would prefer either autologous (from the patient) or homologous (from another donor) cartilage. In our practice we believe that cartilage is a better option than an implant as implants have a higher risk of infection and extrusion even in the distant future. Our first choice is nasal septal cartilage followed by either ear cartilage or rib cartilage. Our second choice is to use donated irradiated rib cartilage. Only in rare instances do we utilize alloplastic implant such as Gore-Tex. If an alloplastic implant was used however Gore-Tex is our first choice.
Posted by Dr. Buckingham