Malar augmentation using autogenous composite conchal cartilage and temporalis fascia.

Prominent malar regions are considered by many in Western society to be a mark of beauty. The increased awareness of this important aesthetic feature has made correction of the poorly defined cheekbone one of the goals of aesthetic surgery of the face. Procedures incorporating alloplastic materials have been described. However, malar implants of this type have not been universally accepted. Silicone gel-filled, silicone rubber, and Proplast implants have enjoyed popularity in facial augmentation. Each of these materials shows low complication rates, but problems related to use are (1) the inevitability of formation of a tissue capsule, which, although responsible for implant stabilization, also may cause deformation of silicone implants, and (2) bacterial contamination at the tissue-implant interface. We propose a new technique of malar augmentation through the use of composite autogenous conchal cartilage grafts and temporalis fascia grafts. A case report and illustrations are presented, including a description of this technique. It is postulated that the use of autogenous materials in malar augmentation can give acceptable results and obviate the inherent risks associated with the use of alloplastic materials.