Implant-supported facial prostheses.

The application of the principles of osseointegration to the craniofacial skeleton can offer the patient with defects from trauma or ablative cancer surgery a functional and esthetic restoration, with minimal morbidity. Implant-supported restorations offer a retrievable prosthesis with increased retention and support, by the use of tissue bars with clip retention, magnetic retentive mechanisms, or both. Implant-supported auricular, nasal, orbital, midfacial or combination prostheses are presently being provided for patients in hospitals, maxillofacial prosthetic training programs, and private practice settings in North America and elsewhere.