INTRODUCTION
The skin's natural aging process manifests itself in the form of contour changes, wrinkles, the depletion of subcutaneous fat, and the loss of dermal collagen and elastin. Today's patients are seeking skin rejuvenation to achieve a natural and youthful appearance through minimally invasive procedures with no downtime. Thinning of the lips and deepening of the nasolabial folds and marionette lines are common manifestations of the aging process. Despite multiple treatment modalities and advances in cosmetic surgery, long-lasting, natural-looking augmentation in these areas continues to present a challenge. Available since January 1, 2001, Advanta expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) implants (Ocean Breeze Surgical, Amherst, NH) have been used successfully for augmentation of thinning lips, deep nasolabial folds, and marionette lines without the risk, recovery time, and expense of major surgery.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ADVANTA ePTFE IMPLANT
Advanta ePTFE implants are an expanded porous polytetrafluoroethylene material with a unique dual- porosity structure. ePTFE is a stable polymer of carbon atoms with a coating of fluorine atoms. The unique dual-porosity structure has a soft high-porosity 100-μm central core surrounded by a smooth, medium-porosity 40-μm outer core. This unique dual-porosity concept promotes tissue integration, vascular ingrowth, and stability. This is critical in preventing migration and reducing shrinkage. The dual-porosity structure is also responsible for a soft feel giving it natural-looking results.
Advanta ePTFE implants are available in sheets and geometrical shapes with and without reinforcement. The implants are either round or oval (Figure 9.1).