Lip augmentation in conjunction with facelift: preliminary experience with a new permanent implant.

Abstract

Classic facial rejuvenation has not addressed permanent perioral rejuvenation, but has relied mainly on temporary fillers. The Permafacial Implant (SurgiSil, Plano, TX), which is a permanent contoured soft silicone implant, was recently cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration. Currently, there are few reports on its effectiveness in lip augmentation. The authors, who have to date inserted more than 100 of these new implants, report their preliminary assessment of the implants' effectiveness for improvement of the aging lip in conjunction with facelift. Blunt scissor dissection was performed, followed by placement of a tendon passer along the course of the moist and dry vermilion junction. The implants were then threaded in the correct position. Placement location in the upper lip was critical. The key position is between the submucosa and the muscle, rather than intramuscularly, where the implant might migrate into a deep position. Bimanual palpation was performed to confirm the proper position. Initial results in two cases are presented with six-months of follow-up. Both patients expressed satisfaction with the results. Neither experienced any distortion or migration. The implants are easy to insert if proper care is taken. The results are permanent and address the aging mouth effectively. A formal two-year study is pending.