Frontonasal Augmentation

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in implants for a frontonasal augmentation effect. Would it be possible to place a nose bridge implant so that it extends onto the forehead and fans out, so that it kind of gives the effects of a forehead augmentation as well? I am look to create the look of deeper set eyes. Also, how much for each of those procedures? Thanks.

A: I suspect you are referring to augmentation of the glabellar region of the forehead just above the nose. While both areas can be augmented concurrently (frontonasal augmentation), they can not be done using a single implant or through the same incisional approach. While such an implant can be custom designed, one has to consider the logistics of it surgical placement. Such a frontonasal implant would be too big to pass it into the forehead through an open rhinoplasty approach. Conversely an adequate nasal pocket could not be made from any type of superior or scalp incisional approach unless it was an complete corral scalp incision. These are general statements and I would have to know more about the exact forehead and nasal areas you want to augment to determine their applicability to your aesthetic facial needs.

Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana