Can Medpor Jaw Angle Implants Be Removed And Replaced?

Q: Dr. Eppley, In 2010 I had vertical Medpor jaw angle implants implanted. I am not so pleased with the result so therefore I would like to remove them. Is this possible?
Also, I would like to replace them with lateral width jaw angle implants, this is what I wanted in the first place but there was a miscommunication between myself and my previous doctor. If possible, and I know that it differs from case to case, what is the average approx. cost for this procedure? I would be flying in from Eurpoe so I would like to do the consultation and surgery in one trip. I can send pics to help before the consultation. Thanks.

A: I have had the experience of removing numerous Medpor jaw angle implants and replacing them with silicone-based jaw angle implants of various dimensions. Medpor implants can certainly be removed successfully although it is somewhat tedious as the tissues can be very adherent to them. It often can be just as traumatic to the tissues as their initial placement…and sometimes more so. But it can be done without any damage to the bone. Once the implants are out, there is plenty of room (pocket space) for the new silicone lateral width implants. But because silicone is a smooth material and the tissue pocket will be much bigger than the implants, it would he critical to secure the new jaw angle implants in with screw fixation.