The use of Medpor implants for midface contouring in cleft patients

Abstract

Three-dimensional midfacial deficiency in cleft patients is common and is frequently connected to impairment of the aesthetic facial appearance. Different approaches to augment relevant facial regions are available. Alloplastic facial implants have been established as a viable alternative to autologous tissue augmentation in various circumstances. However, in cleft patients, the application of facial implants has rarely been reported. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the use of Medpor implants for midfacial contouring in cleft patients. Fifty-one patients with orofacial clefts were assessed with regard to defined parameters. A range of Paranasal, Malar and Nasal Dorsum Medpor implants had been used. Unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) represented the most common indication, followed by bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP). Bilateral implant insertion was performed as a general rule with few exceptions. Insertion of implants was frequently combined with other cleft-related surgical procedures. Even after orthognathic surgery, midfacial augmentation was implemented to specifically address residual volume deficiency, particularly in the malar region. The complication rate amounted to 4.9% (6/122 implants). Based on our findings, Medpor implants are reliable and long-term stable materials to successfully augment paranasal, subnasal and malar areas as well as a solid nasal dorsum material with few complications in cleft patients.