Will my Gore-Tex implant shrink?

Question

I am just wondering if gore tex implant really shrink on the first month, i had a nose implant this month and i hope that it will shrink. And when does the tissue starts growing/incorporating on the implant?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

The implant is inert and should not shrink. However, the edema (swelling) in the tissue overlying the implant will most definitely shrink during the first three weeks to three months depending upon the surgical approach used by your surgeon. You still have a lot of healing ahead of you and it is too early to judge your final result. Be patient - something that is always easier said than done. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

The Goretex implant will not shrink, though swelling from the surgery may resolve. Fibrous ingrowth occurs fairly quickly after surgery, but the implant never truly becomes "incorporated".

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This early in the postoperative course the swelling after rhinoplasty and after implant placement in particular will be considerable.  It will shrink. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

In my experience the Gortex implants are quite stable and thats why I prefer them. The skin overlying the implant will certainly shrink as the swelling from surgery subsides. It takes a few months for tissue ingrowth to occur. Keep in mind however that tissue ingrowth is modest with goretex and not as extensive as materials like Porex.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A goretex implant will not shrink . What will shrink is the soft tissue around the implant.  Good luck.

Will my Gore-Tex implant shrink?

Answers (7)