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Facial Plast Surg 2009; 25(4): 252-259
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1242037
© Thieme Medical Publishers

The Aging Midfacial Skeleton: Implications for Rejuvenation and Reconstruction Using Implants

E. Matros1 , A. Momoh1 , 2 , M.J. Yaremchuk1
  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
  • 2Division of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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Publication History

Publication Date:
18 November 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Traditional theories on facial aging and methods for rejuvenation focus primarily on soft tissues with ptosis as the major mechanism responsible for senescent changes. Anatomic studies demonstrate that there are also many changes to the craniofacial skeleton as patients age. Midface skeletal augmentation, using implants made of porous polyethylene, is a simple and effective method to reverse age-related changes of the facial skeleton in patients with intact occlusion. Skeletal implants correct concave morphology by increasing projection and provide a means to resuspend cheek soft tissues that have descended off a deficient bony platform. Beyond rejuvenation, skeletal implants can be used to restore facial proportions in patients with midface deficiency secondary to trauma, congenital deformity, or other pathologic states.

KEYWORDS

Implants - aging - midface - skeleton

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Michael J YaremchukM.D. 

Division of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital

Wang 435, 15 Parkman Street, Boston, MA 02114

Email: myaremchuk@partners.org