Medpor removal and replacement from nose after 15 years?

Question

Surgeons specializing in removal/replacement of medpore? I'm asian and had an L shape medpore implant placed 15 years ago to increase bridge height. Since my surgery, I've not been happy w the upturned base. At this time I'm finally able to revisit revision rhinoplasty but have been turned away by some who do not work w this material. Id also like to address potential breakthrough of implant (its visible when looking into nose and can be felt protruding from skin). What could replace this?

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

This is an unfortunate complication from alloplastic implants in the nose such as Medpor. If the implant is visible in the nose that means that it has extruded and needs to be removed. If not removed, this provides a pathway for bacteria to enter under the skin and cause an infection that may lead to permanent damage to your nose. Once this is removed, your nose will need to be reconstructed with cartilage that can be harvested from either your nasal septum(most frequent location) or your ear if there is not sufficient quantity in the nose. In a smaller number of patients, rib cartilage will need to be harvested if you require support that can not be provided from the septum or ear. Seek consultation with a revision rhinoplasty specialist who has experience with removing infecting implants and reconstructing noses after their removal. Best of luck.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear rhino revision, I would suggest seeking a specialist in this field as soon as you can get in for a consultation appointment. From your description the Medpor implant is protruding and this will cause damage to the tissues as well as possible infection. Medpor implants allow the tissue to grow through the implant and since it has been in place for fifteen years it may pose some difficulty in removal however it needs to be done. After a healing period then you can have a natural cartilage graft used to augment the bridge. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

It sounds like you have a partially exposed implant and possibly a low grade infection and chronic inflammation. With the ingrowth of surrounding tissue the Medpor implants can be very difficult to remove. Ultimately cartilage can be used to augment the nose but the first and more serious problem is the removal of the implant. Obvious it is not an emergency but I strongly encourage you to to take care of this i the near future because your problem will only get worse.

Medpor removal and replacement from nose after 15 years?

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Medpor removal and replacement from nose after 15 years?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.