Can My Medpor Facial Implants Be Removed Without Causing Problems?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had Medpor infraorbital rim and paranasal implants placed last year. The recovery was uneventful, but I’m hoping for further augmentation that’s more suitable for my face. This is why I’m contemplating getting a custom made implant for the entire mid-face region. However, my biggest concern is with removing these implants. I understand that Medpor removal comes with its risks. Assuming that I’m willing to undertake these risks, can I just check if it will at all be possible to remove the infraorbital rim and paranasal implants? If so, what kind of soft tissue damage can I expect? Would any tissue resuspension be necessary, especially if I were to replace them with the custom made implants in the same surgery? Thanks!

A: Having done a lot of Medpor facial implant removals, I have yet to see an implant that could not be successfully removed. There really is no risk with their removal other than the swelling which naturally occurs afterwards which usually isn’t worse than the original implantation surgery. I don’t think there is any risk of soft tissue sagging with their removal particularly if replacement implants are being simultaneously inserted.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana