How common is DCF implant reabsorption and what are the risks associated with nose filler?

Question

I’d like to get an Asian rhinoplasty and have heard DCF is probably the way to go. Silicone implant can become infected, solid rib implant can warp, and DCF is good but there’s a chance of reabsorption. How common and significant is reabsorption? I am a bit worried about this. I wonder if I should keep doing nose filler until something fail proof is invented. Which leads me to my next Qs: how risky would you say nose filler is? and do you believe dissolver can cause systemic issues/damage?

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

The short answer is, diced cartilage fascia made from your own cartilage and fascia will not resorb.

The long answer is, diced cartilage fascia describes a generic surgical technique, but rhinoplasty surgeons will vary widely on how it is actually performed. Some surgeons harvest the fascia and remove any adherent muscle and soft tissue, creating a thin, uniform sheet of fascia. Some do not. Some surgeons will handle the cartilage in a way to ensure it's viability throughout the surgery, will dice it into uniform, sub-millimeter cubes, and load it into a precisely sutured wrap of fascia. Some will not. Sometimes swelling and the resolution of swelling afterwards can give the illusion of resorption, when in fact the cartilage remains exactly the same volume.

Fillers have risks, mainly associated with inexperienced injectors and with long-term injections.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. DCF is my preferred method of dorsal augmentation for the exact reasons that you described. Resorption is not as big of an issue when good technique is used and is a minor risk in comparison to issues with solid rib or certainly silicone. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Raja Mohan, MD · Answer

A DCF implant, or diced cartilage fascia graft, is a procedure that uses cartilage from the patient to reshape the nose. The cartilage is diced into small pieces and wrapped in fascia, a thin layer of tissue, before being implanted into the nose. The fascia helps to hold the cartilage in place and makes it easier to shape, resulting in a more natural-looking nose. DCF implants have several advantages over traditional implants, including: Natural appearanceDCF implants can be molded to the surgeon's desired shape, giving the nose a more natural look. Low risk of infectionDCF implants are made from the patient's own tissue, so the risk of infection is low. If an infection does occur, it can be treated with antibiotics like any other infection. BiocompatibilityDCF implants are highly biocompatible, so the body is less likely to reject them. During a DCF rhinoplasty, the surgeon can choose to use the patient's own cartilage or donor cartilage. The patient can also choose between using cartilage from the rib cage, ear, or septum.

How common is DCF implant reabsorption and what are the risks associated with nose filler?

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How common is DCF implant reabsorption and what are the risks associated with nose filler?

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Everything you need to know about Asian Rhinoplasty

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