24 January 2024 | Martin Kauke-Navarro, Leonard Knoedler, Samuel Knoedler, Can Deniz, Lars Stucki, and Ali-Farid Safi
The article "Balancing Beauty and Science: A Review of Facial Implant Materials in Craniofacial Surgery" by Kauke-Navarro et al. provides a comprehensive review of the various materials used in facial reconstruction and augmentation, including autologous, allogeneic, and alloplastic implants. The authors discuss the limitations and advantages of each type of material, such as bone, cartilage, fat, titanium, polymers (silicone, polyethylene, PEEK), and ceramics (hydroxyapatite). They highlight the specific uses, complications, and long-term outcomes associated with each material. For instance, autologous materials like bone and cartilage have unpredictable resorption rates, while alloplastic materials like silicone and polyethylene offer more predictable results but may have issues like migration and visibility. PEEK, a polymer with high mechanical strength and biocompatibility, is noted for its adaptability and stability, making it a promising material for custom implants. The article also explores the potential of 3D bioprinting with hydroxyapatite-based bioinks for creating customized and biocompatible implants. The authors conclude that while no single material has demonstrated clear superiority, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the short- and long-term complications of different implant materials, potentially revolutionizing facial balancing surgery.The article "Balancing Beauty and Science: A Review of Facial Implant Materials in Craniofacial Surgery" by Kauke-Navarro et al. provides a comprehensive review of the various materials used in facial reconstruction and augmentation, including autologous, allogeneic, and alloplastic implants. The authors discuss the limitations and advantages of each type of material, such as bone, cartilage, fat, titanium, polymers (silicone, polyethylene, PEEK), and ceramics (hydroxyapatite). They highlight the specific uses, complications, and long-term outcomes associated with each material. For instance, autologous materials like bone and cartilage have unpredictable resorption rates, while alloplastic materials like silicone and polyethylene offer more predictable results but may have issues like migration and visibility. PEEK, a polymer with high mechanical strength and biocompatibility, is noted for its adaptability and stability, making it a promising material for custom implants. The article also explores the potential of 3D bioprinting with hydroxyapatite-based bioinks for creating customized and biocompatible implants. The authors conclude that while no single material has demonstrated clear superiority, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the short- and long-term complications of different implant materials, potentially revolutionizing facial balancing surgery.