Implants of Gore-Tex: Comparisons With Teflon-coated Polytetrafluoroethylene Carbon and Porous Polyethylene Implants

Pieces of an expanded, fibrillated, polytetrafluoroethylene material (Gore-Tex), were evaluated as implants for application in facial plastic augmentation and reconstructive surgery. The Gore-Tex cylinder material, which has an average internodal spacing of 30 microns, became permeated with viable connective tissue. Few histiocytes and giant cells accumulated at the implant site, a sign that little chronic inflammation and foreign-body reaction were present. Mature connective tissue around the implant appeared to form a strong supporting envelope for the material, yet the implant could be easily dissected from the subcutaneous tissue and could be removed en bloc without difficulty. Gore-Tex is a versatile material that seems to have a favorable future in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Clinical studies will define that potential more clearly.