gms | German Medical Science

Introduction: In the field of plastic surgery, a common problem presents if shape altering breast surgeries need to be evaluated. To date, outcomes are judged by surgeon and/or patient opinion, or (in research settings) a combination of photographs, expert opinion and patient surveys used to evaluate results. All these methods are prone to observer bias and subjectivity and therefore often lead to inaccurate conclusions. Surface 3D scanning and computer based comparison of volume changes and shape changes can circumvent some of these problems.

Method: Surface scans were performed with a portable Artec Eva high resolution 3D scanner. Primary breast augmentation patients were scanned pre- (no implant), intra- (sizers) and post- (final implant, immediately and 6 to 12 month) operatively. Endpoints were practicability of intra-operative scanning, breast size, volume distribution and shape change analysis as well as complication rates.

Results: Portable 3D scanning in an operative setting is practical and straightforward to perform. No harm or risk is added to the surgical procedure. No harmful radiation is used. Scans take between 30 and 60 seconds. 3D computer processing and comparison is possible and practical. Our study's second aim to compare round versus anatomic silicone breast implants in regards to volume and shape is an ongoing research project and we will present preliminary results.

Conclusions: Existing confusion on how round versus anatomic breast implants alter the shape of patients’ breasts in the short and long term is due to non-reliable endpoint measurements (mostly opinions). Portable high resolution surface scanning and 3D processing/comparison is the only non-invasive objective research method to accurately evaluate breast shape altering surgeries.