Developing realistic expectations is one of the most important parts of preparing for plastic surgery. Everyone’s face and body are different, so you cannot expect to achieve exactly the same results as someone else, regardless of how skilled your surgeon is. Your surgeon must still work within the limits of your bone structure and body type. Understanding this, and communicating effectively with your surgeon, is one of the best ways to ensure a satisfactory outcome and avoid the need for revision surgery.
In the past, relying on verbal communication made the process of developing realistic expectations inefficient. Visualizing exactly how you’ll look based on words alone is challenging, no matter how many “before and after” photos you look at. This is why Vectra 3D is so helpful for many of our patients: Vectra 3D utilizes the power of computer-generated imagery to show patients exactly what they’ll look like after having the procedure (or procedures) of their choice.
What is Vectra 3D Imaging?
Vectra 3D Imaging is a computer software program that’s capable of generating 3D models of individual patients. These models can be quickly and easily modified to reflect the results of various surgical procedures. This allows patients to accurately match their expectations with reality before they enter the operating room. Furthermore, it facilitates excellent doctor-patient communication: Once patients see their projected results, they can ask their surgeon to make adjustments to better reflect their wishes.
Every Vectra 3D Imaging session starts with a comprehensive full-body scan. Six high-definition cameras are placed around the patient so that they can capture his or her face and body from every angle. Then, the Vectra 3D program stitches these images together to create an accurate three-dimensional model of the patient. This model can be rotated freely in order to provide a complete picture of the changes the patient can expect after surgery. The program also automatically generates two models, one depicting the patient’s current appearance and one showing the projected alterations, to allow the patient to easily compare both states.
What Procedures Can be Used with Vectra 3D?
Patients having virtually any kind of plastic surgery can benefit from Vectra 3D Imaging. This program is powerful enough to compute the results of even very complex surgical procedures, like tummy tuck surgery.
Vectra 3D Imaging is particularly helpful for patients who plan to have either rhinoplasty or breast augmentation surgery. Rhinoplasty patients are prone to developing unrealistic expectations simply because they’re not aware of the need to work within their existing nasal structure. Breast augmentation patients, on the other hand, are frequently unsure of how implant volume (which is measured in CCs) will translate into real-world cup sizes. Vectra 3D Imaging can eliminate this confusion.
RL Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa is one of the only plastic surgery practices in Illinois to offer Vectra 3D Imaging. If you would like to learn more about how this innovative technology can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, simply contact us to arrange a personal consultation.
