How Does 3D Imaging Actually Work?
Posted on May 02nd, 2017 by Dr. William FranckleThanks to 3D imaging technology, plastic surgeons and patients can now see a predicted outcome of a procedure well before surgery. A type of computer simulation, Vectra 3D imaging shows a possible result during the very first consultation. Here’s what to expect.
Creating a Three-Dimensional Image
As you are guided to our consultation room, you will notice a set of large cameras and screens set up on the back wall. These specialized 3D cameras will take multiple pictures of you from different angles, simultaneously. The resulting collection of these individual photos is compiled into a three-dimensional view of your body, which serves as the “before” image.
The simulation software then allows Dr. Franckle to modify the image to create an expected “after” model. Changes are made directly to the 3D image right before your eyes! Dr. Franckle can continue to modify the image until you are both comfortable with the predicted results shown. This process allows you to visualize the projected results of your procedure on your own body. Both the before and after images can be viewed from many different angles for a complete picture of what you can expect.
Ideal for Face & Body Procedures
Being able to review and adjust these projected images as early as the first consultation is a huge benefit. Up until now, our patients only option to visualize their results was by using their imagination. Before and after images of past patients are helpful, but not nearly as helpful as seeing how your body looks today and how it is expected to look post procedure. The Vectra 3D imaging technology works well for breast surgery, facial procedures such as rhinoplasty, body contouring including tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, and body lifts.
Before breast surgery, 3D imaging allows us to compare different breast shapes and sizes on the body. This is very helpful for breast augmentation, breast lifts, or breast reductions. With facial procedures, including facelift, injectable fillers, and reconstruction, the side-by-side before and after images viewed from different angles prove immensely valuable. The process also works well to show what a tummy tuck or body lift can do. Three-dimensional imaging reduces guesswork and provides body sculpting results that you can reasonably expect.
Why Choose a Surgeon with 3D Imaging?
The real beauty of this technology is the open line of communication it creates. The projected ‘after’ image instantly shows you what Dr. Franckle is envisioning for your procedure. This also gives you the opportunity to clearly explain your vision. Imagine being able to point at certain areas on a 3D image of your own body instead of having to articulate with words the image you see in your head. It is important to Dr. Franckle that this process is used during your initial consultation at our office to help eliminate misunderstandings that commonly arise between doctor and patient. The 3D rendering helps to ensure that you and Dr. Franckle are in full agreement well before the procedure takes place.
Special thanks to jfcherry for the image.