Lip rejuvenation using chemical abrasion and padding with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants

Abstract

Aesthetic improvement of the lips is a problem that must be treated in a totally independent way from the rest of the face because degeneration of the lips is tied to genetic or acquired factors for which no long-term procedure is effective. The effectiveness of resurfacing of large and small wrinkles using chemical abrasion has long been recognized. Labial padding, using supple Gore-Tex(R) implants that are cut to size and placed where necessary provides the desired result while preserving the function of the lip. Usually requested by the younger patient, it can be used in combination with chemical abrasion in the more mature patient. This technique is not only quick, tested, very effective, and definitive, but totally reversible if needed, which allows us to widen the indications with great safety.

Lip Suspension Technique

“…The same procedure is carried out on the opposite side to achieve the desired elevation and symmetry (Figs. 3J-L, 4A-D, 5,6). An antibiotic ointment dressing is applied.…”

“…autogenous or allogenic soft tissue augmentation materials, mucosal advancement techniques, and external skin excision procedures are designed to give the lip a more youthful appearance. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Lip suspension is an adjunctive technique that we have developed over the past 4 years to improve our ability to rejuvenate the aging lip.…”

Dual Porosity Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene for Soft-Tissue Augmentation

“…10,11 A variety of other configurations of this material have been evaluated including threads, strips, and most recently tubes. 6,[12][13][14][15] All of these configurations of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene have exhibited limited tissue integration that although facilitating removal, has been implicated in material extrusion, foreign body reactions, and infection. 4,16 -19 The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene used for soft-tissue augmentation has polymer structural characteristics similar to the material used in a variety of other clinical applications, including vascular grafts.…”