Artificial implants, aka alloplastic implants, are commonly used in rhinoplasty. Dr. Shah feels strongly that the use of artificial implants can lead to serious consequences including permanent damage to the soft tissue envelope of the nose.
There are various types of Artificial implants including Gore-tex, Silicone, Med-Pore. While these implants are used in other parts of the face with less risk of infection, within the nose, infection is much more probable.
1. Infected Gore-tex implant
2. Scar contracture as result of infection
3. After reconstruction with costal cartilage
FAQ about artificial implants in the nose:
What is the difference between using an implant alloplastic and native cartilage?
The risk of infection is much less with native cartilage and the body will incorporate native cartilage. Artificial implants can lead to infection, rejection, and serious soft tissue damage to the nose.
Why do many surgeons use Artificial implants?
It is technically much easier to use an artificial implant than the bodies own cartilage. Costal cartilage and auricular cartilage demand significant expertise which few surgeons are able to use properly.