Three-dimensional soft tissue change after paranasal augmentation with porous polyethylene

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Midface retrusion and mandibular prognathism often require surgical correction for aesthetic and functional improvement.
• Paranasal augmentation aims to enhance midfacial soft tissue projection and improve facial harmony.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of porous polyethylene (PPE) implants on midfacial soft tissue architecture following paranasal augmentation.
• To assess changes in soft tissue morphology, facial angles, and nasal parameters after PPE augmentation in patients with midface retrusion.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 20 adult patients undergoing bilateral PPE augmentation of the piriform aperture and simultaneous mandibular setback.
• Three-dimensional imaging (cone beam computed tomography) was used to evaluate soft tissue changes before and 6 months after surgery.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in midfacial soft tissue outline (1-4mm), with peri-alar region increase averaging 3.1-3.4mm (68-74% of implant thickness).
• Increased nasolabial angle (2.2°) and columellar inclination (1.4°).
• Alar base width increased by an average of 2.2mm, with no significant changes in nasal tip projection or columellar length.

Conclusions:

• Paranasal augmentation with porous polyethylene effectively augments midfacial soft tissues.
• The procedure enhances paranasal aesthetics with minimal morbidity, without compromising nasal projection.