I install these panels for several contractors an the common installation is to have a false front attached above the appliance which follows the door panels.
On the occasion when a full length panel is installed the upper cabinet is widened to accommodate a crown molding, thus reducing any opportunity of panel twisting, by reducing the height of the extension, in the future from a failing door gasket.

You see, the top of door, panel retainer, is there for a reason.

Can you find out exactly what size cabinet could be installed there? Personally, I would prefer almost any sized cabinet to no cabinet at all. If it was small I might store linens or new dish scrubbies or even extra plastic bag, sandwich bags, foil and plastic wrap. I have a standard fridge with a cabinet above and I use it all the time, even though I have to stand on a stool to see the back of the cabinet.

I agree. I rahter have cabinets than none.
We have them and this is where we store bigger and fancier dishes.
We can never have enough storage.
Whenever we have guests I make sure to go fetch them before our guests arrives.
It's not too classy to have the hostess up on a chair to get fancy dishes...

Everyone says it's a dust catcher, but I would like to have a display shelf over the refrigerator. I saw one in a model home and thought it was a great way to use the space. I have a cabinet that we don't store much in, because it's too hard to reach...and I'm 5'10" :)

I have a 48" GE Monogram side by side refrigerator. I have 9' ceilings. I have 2 tip up cabinets on top of the fridge. I would rather have some storage than none. I store my Christmas plates and other rarely used stuff up there. It works perfectly.