The role of 3D Simulation in Breast Augmentation surgery

Crisalix 3D simulation technology

Choosing the right size implants is possibly the most difficult decision for patients seeking breast enhancement surgery.

Before the first consultation, there are some patients who already have an idea of the implant size they are interested in. This idea can be the product of internet research, or from people they know who have already had the procedure. However, this is often a too simplistic approach. There is unfortunately no ‘one size fits all’ in breast augmentation surgery. The final choice has to be based on unique patient-specific factors, namely - frame characteristics, existing amount of breast tissue, skin and breast laxity, and finally the type of look they desire to achieve.

In most clinics, plastic surgeons will have implant sizers available that the patient can ‘try on’. These implant sizers are worn over the breasts and secured with a support bra. This test will give a good idea on how much volume the implants will add to the breasts within a bra. However, this does not give any information on the final breast shape, or allow for factors such as nipple position and volume distribution to be considered. Fortunately this is where 3D simulation technology can be of great help!

In all my breast augmentation consultations I now perform 3D simulation as routine.

We can also perform your simulation virtually, via an online consultation. You only need to send us 3 pictures, and you will be able to see your projected images with different size implants from home during a virtual consultation with Mr Orfaniotis.

The process involves an initial 3D scan of the upper body. This is just a series of images through an iPad attachment and takes less than a minute. The images will then be processed by the software and a 3D model of your upper body will be shown on a computer screen.

Following this, a number of measurements will be shown on the screen that will determine your frame characteristics and allow both, you and your surgeon to narrow down the implant selection based on your breast potential capacity.

The software has a huge selection of all the implant brands, sizes, and shapes that exist on the market, which we can then apply to your simulation model. There are additional options to choose the implant pocket (over or under the muscle), and to change the volume on each breast in cases of breast asymmetry. For those women who require an uplift alongside their augmentation, I am also able to incorporate the uplift into the simulation and show the predicted outcome and the position and pattern of scars needed. You can learn more about breast augmentation with uplift here.

Patients quite enjoy this process of trying on multiple types of different implants sizes and shapes on the screen!

Through the simulation the new breasts can be assessed from all possible angles. Together we work through the different options and narrow it down to 3 or 4 choices which are saved to a secure online file. At this stage I then encourage you to try on the corresponding external sizers, look in a mirror and feel the difference of the implant volumes on your chest. For virtual consultations, the external sizing test can be replaced by the rice test at home. The combination of 3D simulation and external sizing really leaves very small room for errors in the breast implant selection process.

After the consultation the simulations will be forwarded to you electronically. This allows you to study the different options in your own time at home and seek an opinion from family and friends if you wish.

Mr Orfaniotis’ patient result at 6 weeks after surgery.

Pre-operative planning was carried out using Crisalix simulation technology.

Pre-operative 3D simulation of the above patient

For more results click here to see our Gallery

You can watch a crisalix demonstration video at the bottom of this page.

I personally believe that implant selection is a joint decision between patient and surgeon. My role is to guide you through this process, however the final decision must be yours. I have found that this simulation process has allowed my patients to feel more confident in their final choice of implant and remain happy with this choice after surgery.

For more information or to book in for your 3D simulation click on the button below.

*Please note the 3D simulation is included in the consultation fee with no additional charge.*

Crisalix 3D simulation technology