MegaDerm Rhinoplasty, Open Structural Rhinoplasty With an Acellular Dermal Matrix
Nose reshaping for complex problems that need internal structural correction can use an acellular dermal matrix as a tip graft. This helps with a thin tip, which can lead to implant extrusion when silicone rubs against the skin, and lowers the chance of infection and of the body rejecting a foreign material. Acellular dermal matrix is used in medical care for many problems, such as burns and breast surgery.
What Is an Acellular Dermal Matrix, and Who Is It Suitable For?
An acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is a medical tissue replacement made from skin that has been processed under sterile conditions. The outer layer of skin (epidermis) is removed, leaving only the dermis, which still contains collagen and elastin. It is then sterilised and carefully processed before it is used to strengthen the nasal structure in people with little nasal soft tissue or a thin nasal tip.
An acellular dermal matrix is sponge-like and porous, so the body’s own tissue and collagen can grow into it and the skin can become thicker.
Who Is an Acellular Dermal Matrix Suitable For?
- people with a flat nose or no clear nasal structure
- people who have had nose reshaping before but did not get the result they wanted
- people who have limits on using their own bone or cartilage
- people who want a specific nasal height and shape
- people with thin tip soft tissue, thin skin or little soft tissue
Advantages of Using an Acellular Dermal Matrix in Nose Reshaping
- shaping, because an acellular dermal matrix can be shaped as needed, so the surgeon can control the nose shape and height appropriately
- shorter surgery, because there is no need to take tissue from another part of your body, which shortens the operation and avoids injury to other areas
- less friction on the skin, with a lower chance of contracted scar tissue
- a lower chance of silicone implant extrusion
- a material designed to keep its properties over time, which helps lower the chance of skin friction
- a softer feel
Frequently Asked Questions About Acellular Dermal Matrix
What Sizes of Acellular Dermal Matrix Are Used, and Which Area Does Each Suit in Rhinoplasty?
- pieces of 1cm x 1cm, 3mm thick or more, suit tip grafts that make the nasal tip thicker
- pieces of 4cm to 5cm, 1mm to 2mm thick, suit adding thickness along the nasal bridge
Who Is Semi-Open Rhinoplasty Suitable For?
How Long Does an Acellular Dermal Matrix Last?
A good-quality acellular dermal matrix can last a long time. It gradually breaks down and becomes your own tissue within 2 years, so you do not need further nose reshaping unless you want to change the shape. Results depend on each person.
When Can I Exercise After Nose Reshaping?
In general, you can do light exercise after 2 weeks and return to normal exercise after 6 to 8 weeks.
Complex rhinoplasty with an acellular dermal matrix is an option for people who want a more defined nose shape with more thickness at the tip, who do not want foreign materials in their body, and who want a flexible nose shape that does not feel stiff.
