Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants for soft-tissue augmentation: 5-year follow-up and literature review

BACKGROUND Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants have been used successfully for augmentation of thinning lips, deep nasolabial folds, and marionette lines without the risk, recovery time, and expense of major surgery. OBJECTIVE The objective was to assess long-term results and patient satisfaction with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients treated with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants from January 1, 2001, to July 1, 2002. RESULTS Eighty-five implants were placed in 33 patients. Forty-six percent of implants were placed in the nasolabial folds, 34% in the lips, 16.5% in the marionette lines, 2% in the oral commisures, and 1% in the glabella. Eighty-seven percent of implants remain in place with excellent correction. Eleven implants in 6 patients were removed. Four of the 11 implants removed were considered too small by the patient and were replaced with larger implants without difficulty. The other reasons for implant removal included malposition, localized swelling, and an unnatural feel. Patient and physician satisfaction with the treatment was high. CONCLUSION Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants are a safe, effective, and permanent option for facial volume augmentation. Patients who have had their implants in place for 5 years or more continue to report high satisfaction with the treatment.