Softform in New York

The Softform implant is a soft, hollow, tubular ePTFE(expanded polytetrafluorethylene-a Goretex derivative) implant that offers a permanent, yet reversible, lip enhancement. Its hollow configuration was designed to promote your own tissue ingrowth into the central lumen of the implant to provide stability. It is currently available in two outer dimensions-2.4mms and 3.2 mms, with an approximate length of 7 cms. Depending on the size chosen it is excellent for either defining or highlighting the upper edge of the lip vermilion (where the red colour of the lip meets the normal pigmented skin) or to add more bulk overall to the lip.

How long has Softform been used, and is it safe? Softform was only developed about 2 years ago. The material however which it is made of i.e.PTFE has been used in vascular grafting for more than 20 years, and in more than 3.5 million people. It has also been used for hernia repair, abdominal wall reinforcement, and facial applications, showing high chemical stability and low infection and extrusion rates. So far there have never been any reported allergic reactions to ePTFE.

What are the advantages ? As Softform is chemically stable and not metabolized by the body its effect is considered permanent. Additionally, should the Softform not be desired after any given length of time, then this could be removed. As Softform is a synthetic material it is commercially available and therefore eliminates the need to take donor fat or dermis from another part of your body, thereby eliminating the need for further scarring.

What are the disadvantages ? Although there is a softening of the treated area over time, patients will likely be able to feel the implant or even a ridge after insertion. Occasionally a "bow stringing" appearance in the skin overlying the implant may be seen in extremes of smiling. Due to the synthetic nature of the Softform implant, there have been rare reports of extrusion of the implant over time.

The Procedure : Softform is usually inserted as a day-case/outpatient basis under local anesthesia. A small incision is made in each corner of the mouth and the Softform is threaded under the skin of the lips by means of its own closed delivery system. Following insertion a small suture is used to close the incision and some antibiotic ointment is applied over this until the incisions are healed. A short course of antibiotics is then prescribed.

Postoperatively : Treatment results are visible immediately, although there will be some associated swelling and bruising. Some patients may experience a sensation of tightness at the implantation site. The swelling and bruising will have subsided by day 7-10. Although you may always be able to feel the implant under your skin, softening of the implant is anticipated over time.

What are the risks ? As with any operation, risks such as bleeding and infection can occur. People who are prone to developing cold sores may develop an exacerbation following this type of surgery. If this were to happen then you would be given tablets and ointments to treat the cold sores which should not alter the overall result.

There may also be slight asymmetries of the lips, scarring, firmness of the graft, and changes in sensation (temporary).