Can a MEDPOR chin implant be removed?

I had a MEDPOR chin implant 2 years ago, the sort of implant that bonds to the tissues, but the implant moved up one side, down the other side. I feel it so much on the upper side near my teeth, it's extremely uncomfortable, and it looks horrible.

Can it be removed without butchering my chin? Will I have to pay additional fees for the correction/removal of the chin implant?

5 answers to “Can a MEDPOR chin implant be removed?”

A: Implant can be removed.

William Portuese, MD

The implant can be removed, although it is rather difficult because the scar that grows into the Medpor is difficult to remove. Depending upon how difficult the surgery goes and if the tissue permits, a traditional Silastic chin implant could potentially be placed at the same time in the normal anatomical plane.

A: Chin implant removal

Steven Wallach, MD

Removing chin implants, especialy Medpor ones can be a bit more difficult than removing the smooth silicone ones. In fact, some of these are secured with screws to the bone.  It can possibly cause the soft tissue to heal down to the bone in an unusual pattern and may make your chin muscles contract... more

A: It can be removed, and should be removed

Kamran Khoobehi, MD

You need to discuss this with your surgeon. I do not charge for this kind of situations but your doctor may feel different. You need to remove the implant since it's causing erosion of the gum line.

A: Feasible

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD

Removing a Medpor implant is a little harder because of tissue ingrowth. However, it is feasible under local anaesthesia with sedation. Discuss it with your original surgeon, I'm sure he will be able to help.  

A: Chin implants can be removed

David Shafer, MD

Julie, Chin implants can be removed. If it is smooth, it is easier to remove. If it is porous, the tissue ingrowth makes it more difficult to remove. If there was some technical error on the surgeon's part, it would not be unreasonable to expect to only pay for the hospital fees for the removal. However,... more

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