Outcomes and Satisfaction of Chin Augmentation With Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) Implants: A 12-Month Retrospective Study

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the aesthetic outcomes, patient satisfaction, and safety of chin augmentation using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) implants over 12 months. Methods: Of 152 patients who underwent intraoral ePTFE chin augmentation, 105 with complete 12-month follow-up were analyzed (85 women, 20 men; mean age 29.3 years; all with isolated microgenia and Angle Class I occlusion). The labiomental angle, chin projection, FACE-Q satisfaction score, and complications were assessed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Anthropometric variables were compared with the paired t test and FACE-Q scores with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (STROBE-compliant). Results: The labiomental angle decreased from 149.41±2.20 degrees to 130.92±2.51 degrees at 6 months ( P <0.001) and was stable at 12 months. Chin projection improved from −3.78±0.61 mm to −0.82±0.53 mm ( P <0.001), remaining stable. The FACE-Q satisfaction score improved from a preoperative median of 59 (interquartile range 55–65) to 88 (81–94) at 6 months ( P <0.001) and was maintained at 12 months. Complications occurred in 14.3% (15/105), all minor and self-limiting (prolonged edema, transient lower-lip hypoaesthesia, and mild asymmetry); no infection, implant extrusion, or revision occurred. Conclusion: In this uncontrolled retrospective series, intraoral ePTFE chin augmentation was associated with significant, stable anthropometric improvement and a significant increase in patient satisfaction from baseline, with a low rate of minor complications. The absence of a control group precludes conclusions of superiority over other materials or techniques; comparative studies are warranted.