Allografts use in nasal reconstruction

The outcomes of destructive processes of the nasal structure such as infection, chronic inflammation, or resective procedures can lead to the need of complex reconstruction of the nasal framework. Various types of grafts and implants have been employed throughout the years: a graft is made of tissue either from the same patient (autograft) or from a member of the same species (homograft). Implants are synthetic and if implantable are defined as alloplasts. The present chapter analyzes reconstructive rhinoplasty with alloplastic materials, to investigate the advantages of alloplastic materials and their complications. Alloplastic implants in reconstructive rhinoplastic surgery have acceptable complication rates mainly in Asian patients and can be used when autogenous materials are unavailable or insufficient. Based on the personal experience and literature data, we can conclude that alloplastic grafts in nasal reconstruction of atrophic noses are still a second choice, especially in Caucasian patients. Considering what and how to support in the nasal structure and what technique to use, it is of utmost importance to know the mechanism involved in alloplastic material interaction and wound healing. This is a priority to prevent alloplastic-related complications and to find the most suitable alloplastic material according to each case