Facial implants are growing steadily in popularity as many have come to desire a rounder, more youthful appearance. Facial implants are oftentimes preferred over other, more temporary options like fillers because implants create a more dramatic change in appearance. Implants also make it is easier for the surgeon to control your final result. There are a few different types of materials used in facial implants, and each one is suited to a different application. The appropriate implant for you will depend on a variety of factors, such as your current appearance and your desired surgery results.
Silicone is probably the most well-known type of implant. It has been used for many years because it is safe, reliable and durable. It is also low cost and can retain extremely fine detail.
Gore-Tex is another material that has been used for decades. Its advantages are very similar to silicone, as Gore-Tex is also a flexible, easily modified and durable material. Gore-Tex has a porous structure that is said to encourage tissue growth over the implant. Some surgeons also believe that Gore-Tex implants are more likely to stay in place than their silicone counterparts.
Medpor is another material that can be used if there are concerns that the implant may slip out of place. Medpor, unlike silicone and Gore-Tex, is not easily modified and is extremely rigid compared to other facial implants. However, Medpor promotes the tissue to grow over the implant, and therefore is less likely to shift or be displaced. Medpor is ideal for cheek and chin implants in which hardness and stability are desired results.
Finally, mersilene is an extremely unique type of implant that is made from a fine mesh. Mersilene is best used to create structural changes in the face, because the mesh structure allows tissue to grow within the implant, securing the implant extremely well. It is a little more difficult to work with than the other types of implants, so it is best suited to specific applications. Chin implants in particular have been known to work well with mersilene.
You and your surgeon will discuss the best type of implant for you. A combination of factors such as the location and function of the implant will be used to determine which material gives you the best possible result.
