Suzanne K. Doud Galli

Chronic sinusitis complicating sinus lift surgery.

Sinusitis has been reported as a complication of sinus lift surgery with antral bone augmentation. The procedure involves the creation of a submucoperiosteal pocket in the floor of the maxillary sinus for placement of a graft consisting of autogenous, allogenic, or alloplastic material. This can result in inadvertent tearing of the mucoperiosteal flap with extrusion of graft material into the antrum. Obstruction of the sinus outflow tract by mucosal edema and particulate graft material may result in sinusitis. We will discuss the clinical presentation and management of 14 cases of chronic sinusitis following sinus lift surgery with alloplastic hydroxyapatite (HA) augmentation of the maxillary antrum.

Complications of static facial suspensions with Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)

Background Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) is a synthetic porous material that has been used for static suspension in facial paralysis. It is manufactured in thin (1‐mm or 2‐mm) sheets that can be cut into strips and implanted through keyhole facial incisions. Regional deformities are addressed by multiple suspensions that provide cosmetic and functional therapy. The use of ePTFE eliminates donor site morbidity associated with the traditional harvest of fascia from either the temporal area or fascia lata. However, properties unique to this alloplast contribute to the complications that have occurred after its use in facial reanimation.

Modern Concepts of Beauty

Since the beginning of humanity, man has sought to define beauty. Whether by philosophy, mathematical constructs, social studies, or biology, the fascination with and the study of beauty has consumed our emotions and intellect. Many myths about this powerful force in our daily lives have been created, and some continue to be believed. Recent studies are shaping a new reality of beauty, one founded on evolutionary and biologic findings that link our fascination with beauty to our reproductive success. Cosmetic surgery, itself, may be an ongoing part of our biologic adaptation. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2003, 11:295–300