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Mandibular resorption from silicone chin implants in children
Summary
Silicone implants in children with Down syndrome caused bone resorption in the chin but not the nose or cheeks. Removal of these implants led to bone regrowth, indicating a reversible effect.
Area of Science:
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Craniofacial Surgery
Background:
- Facial appearance is a significant concern in children with Down syndrome.
- Surgical interventions like silicone implants are sometimes considered to improve facial aesthetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of silicone implants in improving facial appearance in children with Down syndrome.
- To assess the impact of nasal, cheek, and chin implants on bone structure in this population.
Main Methods:
- Silicone implants were surgically placed in the nasal, cheek, and chin regions of pediatric patients with Down syndrome.
- Clinical examinations and radiological imaging were used for follow-up assessments.
- Implant removal was performed in cases with adverse effects.
Main Results:
- Significant crater-like bone resorption was observed in the mandibular symphysis in 75% of cases with chin implants.
- No bone damage was detected in the malar (cheek) or nasal areas following implantation.
- Following removal of the implants, the mandibular bone demonstrated complete regrowth to its presurgical condition.
Conclusions:
- Silicone implants in the chin area pose a risk of significant, yet reversible, mandibular bone resorption in children with Down syndrome.
- Implants in the nasal and cheek areas appear to be safe concerning bone integrity.
- Careful consideration and monitoring are warranted when using silicone implants for facial augmentation in pediatric Down syndrome patients, particularly in the chin region.