Introducing Implantech’s New Composite™ ePTFE-Coated Auricular Implants

Few can argue that ear reconstruction presents a challenge unlike other aesthetic procedures.

The natural ear is at once convex and concave, flexible to the touch yet rigid when left alone, and a mirror-image opposite of its counterpart.

The ear’s complex features go largely unnoticed when normal, but stick out like a sore thumb when they’re not.

And those suffering from ear deformity due to congenital disorder, trauma, surgery or other medical condition pay the price both physically and emotionally.

In short, ear reconstruction begs the convergence of medical science and artistic mastery.

When done well, ear reconstruction has a transformative effect. It extends beyond physical appearance, empowering individuals with newfound confidence and a previously unknown sense of self-esteem.

As noted in a PlasticSurgeons.com article: “Patients with ear deformities are frequently the recipients of teasing and ridicule. The psychological benefits of this surgery are immense and far-reaching.”¹

It all starts with a well-designed foundation: Introducing our Composite™ ePTFE-Coated Auricular Implants

 Implantech’s Composite™ Auricular Implants have been carefully designed to mimic the natural ear’s features, contours and feel.

They consist of durable silicone coated with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), bringing to bear the remarkable benefits of both materials.

The silicone provides a firm yet supple framework, while the microporous, biocompatible ePTFE enables soft tissue in-growth for implant stabilization.

Such in-growth also improves the external definition of the ear by adapting the overlying skin to the implant’s multiple convexities and concavities.

Three components comprise our Implants: a base framework, Y-shaped antihelix overlay and wedge that gives the ear projection.

With each component available in varying sizes for left or right ears, you can assemble them in numerous ways to create the desired ear shape for your patient.

Composite™ Auricular Implants are an innovative alternative to current reconstructive options.

For example, while costal cartilage harvesting has been a mainstay since the mid-20th century, it’s not without potential issues.

Such harvesting necessitates at least two surgeries, it being the first and ear reconstruction the second. Accordingly, donor-site pain, scarring and chest wall deformity are possibilities, as are pneumothorax, nerve damage, and other complications.

Moreover, carving the cartilage into an aesthetic shape that mirror-images the contralateral ear is difficult.

Plus, the harvested cartilage may undergo resorption over time, leading to a decrease in the volume or structural integrity of the reconstructed ear.

Finally, it’s worth noting that, apart from autologous harvesting, other materials used in ear reconstruction might not achieve the same balance between flexibility and the robust shape retention provided by our ePTFE-coated silicone.

Find out more for your practice.

Contact Implantech for more about our Composite™ Auricular Implants—and how they may offer your patients a notably aesthetic outcome for their ear reconstruction.

¹ Ear Reconstruction (plasticsurgeons.com)