Premium Non-Resorbable Membrane, From £125
A non-resorbable barrier membrane for complex bone regeneration, providing extended protection for your bone graft during the critical healing phase.
A non-resorbable membrane is a premium barrier membrane used in complex bone regeneration cases. Unlike a standard resorbable membrane that dissolves on its own, a non-resorbable membrane maintains its structure for an extended period, providing longer-lasting protection for bone grafts in situations where the healing time is extended or the graft site requires additional support.
In the UK, a non-resorbable membrane adds £400 to £800 to the cost of a bone grafting procedure. With The Health Store Turkey, the same membrane starts from £125. Your dentist only recommends this type when the complexity of your case requires it.
This is a specialist component of advanced implant preparation. Your dentist explains clearly why a non-resorbable membrane is recommended over a standard resorbable one, so you understand the clinical reasoning.
What Is Membrane?
What Is a Non-Resorbable Membrane?
A non-resorbable membrane is a rigid or semi-rigid barrier that is placed over a bone graft to protect the grafting material and guide bone regeneration. Unlike a resorbable membrane (which dissolves over weeks), a non-resorbable membrane maintains its structure and barrier function for the entire healing period.
Non-resorbable membranes are typically made from ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) or titanium-reinforced materials. Their rigidity provides space maintenance, they hold their shape over the graft site, preventing the overlying soft tissue from collapsing into the grafting area. This is particularly important in larger defects where significant bone volume needs to be regenerated.
Because they do not dissolve, non-resorbable membranes require a second minor procedure for removal, typically 4 to 9 months after placement, once the bone has regenerated. This is a straightforward procedure performed under local anaesthesia.
Your dentist recommends a non-resorbable membrane when the graft site is large, requires space maintenance, or when extended barrier function is needed for the best possible bone regeneration outcome.
Am I Suitable?
Am I a Good Candidate?
A non-resorbable membrane is recommended for more complex bone regeneration cases. It may be used if:
- You have significant bone loss requiring a large volume of grafting material
- The graft site needs space maintenance to prevent tissue collapse
- You are undergoing a complex sinus lift or ridge augmentation where extended healing is needed
- Your dentist determines that a resorbable membrane would dissolve too quickly for your specific case
Not every bone graft requires a non-resorbable membrane. Your dentist only recommends this premium option when the clinical situation justifies it. For simpler grafts, a standard resorbable membrane at a lower cost may be sufficient.
What Happens During the Procedure?
What Happens During Your Treatment?
During the Bone Grafting Procedure
After the bone grafting material is placed, the non-resorbable membrane is trimmed, shaped, and positioned over the graft site. It may be secured with tiny fixation screws or tacks to hold it in position. The gum is sutured closed over the membrane.
Healing Period (4-9 Months)
The membrane maintains its barrier function throughout the healing period, protecting the graft and maintaining the space needed for bone regeneration.
Membrane Removal
Once your bone has regenerated (confirmed by X-ray or 3D scan), the membrane is removed in a minor procedure under local anaesthesia. This typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as membrane removal, combining the procedures.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery follows the same timeline as your bone grafting procedure.
First 2 weeks: Follow bone grafting aftercare instructions, soft foods, gentle cleaning, avoid disturbing the site.
Months 2-9: The bone graft integrates with your natural bone while the membrane maintains its protective barrier. You carry on with normal life during this time.
Membrane removal: A minor procedure under local anaesthesia. Recovery from removal is minimal, mild discomfort for a day or two.
After removal: Your dentist confirms bone regeneration is complete. Implant placement can proceed, either immediately or at a subsequent visit.
Risks & Considerations
Risks and Considerations
Non-resorbable membranes are well-established in advanced implant dentistry. Additional risks compared to resorbable membranes include:
Membrane exposure: Non-resorbable membranes have a slightly higher risk of exposure through the gum compared to resorbable types. If exposure occurs, infection risk increases and the membrane may need early removal. Your dentist monitors for this during follow-up appointments.
Second procedure required: Unlike resorbable membranes, this type must be removed surgically. This is a minor procedure but does require an additional appointment.
Infection: A slightly higher risk than resorbable membranes, particularly if exposure occurs. Good oral hygiene and prescribed antibiotics minimise this risk.
All risks are discussed when your dentist explains why a non-resorbable membrane is recommended for your case.
UK vs Turkey: What You Save
UK prices are indicative ranges based on private healthcare providers. Your THST price is confirmed during your free consultation.
UK Aftercare: We Are Here When You Get Home
Unlike other medical tourism companies, we do not leave you on your own once you are back in the UK. We have two dedicated aftercare clinics staffed by NHS-registered wound care specialists, so you can see a professional face-to-face for wound checks, dressing changes, and recovery support.
Medical disclaimer: Results of any surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. You are advised to consult your physician for detailed information before undergoing any procedure. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer for full details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Resorbable membranes dissolve naturally over weeks to months and do not need to be removed. Non-resorbable membranes maintain their structure throughout the healing period and must be removed surgically. Non-resorbable membranes are used for more complex cases where extended barrier function, space maintenance, or longer healing times are needed. Your dentist recommends the appropriate type for your situation.
Non-resorbable membranes use more advanced materials (ePTFE or titanium-reinforced) that maintain their structure for months rather than dissolving. The manufacturing process is more complex, and the materials provide superior space maintenance for larger or more complex graft sites. The higher cost reflects the premium material and the clinical situations where it is needed.
A non-resorbable membrane typically stays in place for 4 to 9 months, long enough for the bone graft to integrate fully. Your dentist monitors healing with X-rays and removes the membrane when the bone has regenerated sufficiently for implant placement.
No. Membrane removal is a minor procedure performed under local anaesthesia. It typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. The membrane is accessed through a small incision and lifted out. Recovery is minimal, you may have mild discomfort for a day or two, managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
In the UK, a non-resorbable membrane adds £400 to £800 to the cost of a bone grafting procedure. With The Health Store Turkey, the same membrane starts from £125. This is costed transparently in your treatment plan alongside the bone grafting and any other procedures you need.
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