How long does Gortex last before they get infected or extrude? (Photos)

Question

I just got my rhinoplasty. Want natural result, happy with my tip,a low bridge, only want a SLIGHT raise. I have sinus problem. My doctor recommended Gortex bc my ear cartilage won't be enough. He said we only do the dorsum, Gortex would be better. Now i'm reading most doctors recommend ear cartilage bc Gortex has high risks. How long will the Gortex stay before it extrudes & become infected? What are the steps to minimize infection? Can I take this out,replace with ear cartilage at my 1 week?

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

Gortex implants have a well documented place in rhinoplasty surgery, and for many of us, our impressions are based on our own observed results. I have used gortex onlays with high success in patients with thick skin, especially Asians, Blacks, and Hispanic. I have NEVER had one of my graft removed secondary to infection. However, I have removed a several  implants in patients with thin skin, regardless of their ethnicity. Bottom line" there is no guarantee of either success or failure. They  are well calculated trade off for a more reliable procedure (using one's own cartilage) that has additional healing, costs, and potential scarring.

Jerold Olson, MD · Answer

Hello,  
Gore-Tex Can be a very useful material for dorsal augmentation.  It comes in a variety of thicknesses and can be sculptured to fit the exact needs of the rhinoplasty. The downside is that occasionally it can become infected and when it does it usually needs to be removed.  For that reason it has somewhat fallen out of favor.  However, it sounds like your surgeon is experienced in its use and has had a good track record with implantation.  I would not worry at this point,  most problems occur relatively early in the postoperative period and if it heals without problem you should be good for the long-term.

Curtis Perry, MD · Answer

Synthetic implants do have an increase risk of extrusion and infection but many patients never have a problem. Patients of asian descent also seem to tolerate them better than other ethnicities.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There is not expiration date on Gore-tex grafts and some can last a lifetime, and others can extrude or become infected. It is difficult to predict.

How long does Gortex last before they get infected or extrude? (Photos)

Answers (4)

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