Implants in facial skeletal augmentation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Alloplastic implants have demonstrated longstanding utility in the augmentation of the facial skeleton. Although their popularity may have waned in recent years, their established efficacy endures. This review summarizes the techniques, limitations, and complications associated with the use of facial implants. RECENT FINDINGS: Given the recognized utility of facial implants in the augmentation of the facial skeleton, they have received little attention in the recent literature. Contemporary reports have focused on the refinement of techniques--with renewed interest in the vertical transoral approach, and expanding the scope of facial implants--that is, the utility of facial implants as alternatives and/or adjuncts to orthognathic surgery. SUMMARY: Facial augmentation using alloplastic implants remains a tried, tested, and true means of correcting skeletal insufficiencies and abnormalities. Thus, what was once old will be new again, and a renaissance in the use of facial implants will undoubtedly occur.