Latest Development in Cosmetic Imaging: The VECTRA M3 3-D System

by Dean Anderson

Millions of consultations are scheduled each year by people curious about how plastic surgery can improve their looks. However, only a fraction of the cosmetically-inclined actually book an operation, and many doctors believe the hesitation stems from potential patients’ inability to visualize a procedure’s physical results. Luckily, computer imaging technology has progressed to the point where a good imagination is no longer required. One of the leading surgical imaging systems, the VECTRA M3, uses a special camera and information such as the patient’s dimensions and skin elasticity to build a 3D representation of the treatment area that can be manipulated by patients and their doctors. Recent VECTRA adoption by cosmetic clinics nationwide has resulted in boosted patient confidence and a general increase in consultation conversion rates.

Precursors to 3-D cosmetic imaging systems have included basic software which swaps the patient’s features with that of a model or props such as padded bras to give an approximation of post-surgery dimensions. While both of these methods provide insight into the treatment’s potential, often patients complain that they can’t “see it” or simply don’t feel like prospective treatments align with their own body image.

The VECTRA imaging system from Canfield Scientific, Inc. was developed to address these issues by creating predictive models from the patient’s own body. VECTRA’s process begins with doctors photographing treatment areas with a 3D camera. Afterward the images, body measurements, and other relevant data are entered into specialized Sculptor software. Sculptor then builds an accurate 3-D model of the patient which can be viewed from any angle. The software is capable of generating surgical previews for procedures such as body contouring, liposuction, rhinoplasty, cleft lip, and palate surgery, but according to New Orleans plastic surgeon Dr. Michele Cooper, the most useful feature has been its surgical predictions for breast augmentation surgery.

“The hardest part of the breast enhancement process for many women is deciding exactly how large they want their breasts to be. There's often a fear that they might overdo it,” Cooper noted to EIN News. “With VECTRA, they can see simulated photos of themselves with a variety of different sizes and shapes of breasts. This helps them make more confident decisions and allows them to enter into the surgical process being more self-assured."

While VECTRA is effective at showing patients all that is possible through plastic surgery, according to Nick Slenkovich of Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, the system is equally useful in demonstrating a given procedure’s limitations. “It greatly improves the consultation process by encouraging open dialog between myself and my patients regarding their aesthetic goals and desires.” Dr. Slenkovich noted to DigitalJournal.com. “In addition, it helps to set realistic expectation for their surgical outcome.”

If you’re curious about how aesthetic enhancement might benefit your body, it may be worth your time to explore which plastic surgery clinics near you offer VECTRA or similar imaging systems. Plastic Surgery Portal has a vast network of certified plastic surgeons, many of which offer complimentary imaging with a consult. Get in touch with us by phone or our convenient contact form to schedule your private appointment today!

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Latest Development in Cosmetic Imaging: The VECTRA M3 3-D System

by Dean Anderson

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