Four-Dimensional Breast Imaging, Part I: Introduction of a Technology-Driven, Evidence-Based Approach to Breast Augmentation Planning

Abstract

Although there are many three-dimensional imaging systems currently available on the market, all of them require a high degree of interaction on the part of the user, making them clinically impractical. Moreover, though claims have been made regarding the validity of these systems for imaging the breast form, there have been no previous reports validating any commercially-available implant simulation models in the plastic surgery literature. In this article, the authors describe the development and evaluate the efficacy of a novel four-dimensional (automated three-dimensional) breast imaging system, validating it as an evidence-based simulation tool for patient consultation, surgical planning, and outcomes analysis in cosmetic breast augmentation. This report, based on a series of longitudinal correlation studies with several patient cohorts, found a highly statistically significant degree of correlation and reliability between the automated measurements obtained with the four-dimensional system and manual measurements.

Modern trends in lipomodeling

“…Several modalities for assessing breast volume (BV) after fat injection have been published, including water displacement, imprint casts, 3D photography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) [56], [57]. Three-dimensional photography has gained popularity because of its speed and accessibility [58], [59]. However, this technique is clearly inferior to MRI because of its lower accuracy [60], [61], [62], [63].…”

Preoperative Assessment Preferences and Reported Reoperation Rates for Size Change in Primary Breast Augmentation

“…These scanners are able to analyze the breast and chest wall of an individual patient accurately and then reliably predict the postoperative outcome. [25][26][27] These computerbased models take into account breast and chest anatomy, asymmetries, and even soft-tissue mechanics, and have been shown to accurately predict optimal postsurgical appearance. Whether these techniques translate into fewer reoperations for size change remains to be answered.…”

Correspondence of Breast Measurements for Bra Design After Reconstruction Surgery

“…There are numerous measurements of the breast that help inform the size, shape, and volume of a breast [11], [12]. Not all of these measurements are available from 3D torso images, so our team has developed a set of standardized fiducial points and measurements to measure breast symmetry, shape, and volume.…”