Is it good to use expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) nasal implants?

In general, ePTFE nasal augmentation is a type of rhinoplasty procedure, with results and evaluations varying from person to person. It offers advantages such as natural-looking outcomes and good stability, but also has disadvantages including the risk of infection, high demands on the surgeon's skill, and relatively high cost.

The ePTFE material is soft and elastic, with good biocompatibility. After implantation into the nose, the body's own tissue can grow into the microporous structure of the ePTFE, making the implant more securely fixed within the nasal area and less likely to shift. The results following ePTFE rhinoplasty appear quite natural, with smooth nasal contours and no obvious unnatural protrusion. The implant remains stable without displacement or deformation, integrating well with the nasal tissue and will not extrude through the skin.

The microporous structure of ePTFE, however, increases the risk of infection to some extent, as bacteria may enter and hide within the pores, making complete eradication difficult. If infection occurs, removal of the implant may be necessary for treatment. ePTFE material requires a high level of technical skill from the plastic surgeon, particularly in surgical design and material carving. Improper surgical technique may lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, or implant displacement.

Prior to undergoing ePTFE nasal augmentation surgery, a comprehensive physical examination is necessary to ensure the patient's health condition is suitable for surgery. Additionally, sufficient communication with the surgeon is essential to clarify personal expectations and the surgical plan. Postoperatively, it is important to follow medical advice regarding care, such as maintaining nasal cleanliness and avoiding external trauma. Regular follow-up visits to the hospital are also required to detect and address any potential complications promptly.