Before-after case photos versus Vectra 3D—which makes it easier to imagine the final result?

It is easier to imagine the final result with 3D simulation that you can try on your own face or body than with words alone or photographs[1]. In a trial with 117 people, the group shown 3D had the highest confidence in understanding what they would look like after surgery[1]. However, the appearance on screen is not a promise, and images that oversell the ideal can become a source of dissatisfaction[2][3].

What is the difference between words, photos, and 3D?

The difference is "whether you can see yourself." Words tend to create a gap between what is explained and what the listener imagines. Photos show someone else's result. With 3D, you can check how your own face or body would change from different angles.[1]. Photos show someone else's result. With 3D, you can check how your own face or body would change from different angles[4].

There is a trial that divided 117 people awaiting breast surgery into three groups: explanation only, viewing photos, and viewing 3D.[1]. The group shown 3D had the highest confidence in predicting the final result[1]. It is also noted that showing images makes communication easier, transcending barriers of language and literacy[1].

What is the difference between 3D from a clinic camera and 3D created from photos?

Vectra is a method in which a clinic's camera captures the face or body in three dimensions.[5]. Alternatively, there is an online system where you can send several photos and have a 3D model made before your consultation.[4].

Vectra's imaging device has multiple studies that verified the accuracy of capturing form, with generally good results.[6]. However, small errors do occur, and the resources presented here do not include direct comparison studies of the accuracy of the two methods.[6][5]. The difference in who creates the image and under what assumptions matters more to discrepancies with the final result than the method itself.[7][2].

How closely does 3D prediction match the actual final result?

For nose surgery, reports indicate a fairly close match. In a study using 3D created from photos (Crisalix), the discrepancy in tip height was less than 1 mm, and the discrepancy in the angle between the forehead and nose was less than 2–3°.[7].

. However, the area around the bridge of the nose is difficult to reproduce, and small discrepancies may appear depending on lighting and photography conditions.[7]. It is noted that the appearance from the front and from below the chin are difficult to test with 3D.[2].

In a study of nose prediction with Vectra, the actual result was rated as better than the prediction. The same study concludes that an experienced physician is necessary to realize the prediction.[1]. In a study of nose prediction with Vectra, the actual result was rated as better than the prediction. The same study concludes that an experienced physician is necessary to realize the prediction.[1].

For breast surgery, it is reported that Vectra predicted post-operative breast volume with accuracy exceeding 90%.[8]. A trend toward lower agreement with prediction was also observed in revision nose surgery.[7].

Does viewing 3D increase satisfaction?

It cannot be definitively said that it does. For nose surgery, it is reported that 3D simulation resulted in higher patient satisfaction than 2D.[1].

. On the other hand, it is not yet known whether viewing 3D before surgery leads to lasting satisfaction over time.[1]. There are also not yet many studies confirming effectiveness through patient self-assessment.[5]. A finding that satisfaction was higher the closer the result matched the prediction does not establish a causal relationship.[7].

What are the limitations of 3D and cases in which it may backfire?

It is when shown an appearance that cannot be realized on your body. An ideal appearance once seen is difficult to forget, and if expectations become too high, disappointment in the final result becomes more likely.[3].

. Therefore, it is considered important that the physician show images within the range realizable on the patient's body.[2][9]. For breast surgery, it is suggested that images showing implant sizes incompatible with the body should not be presented.[8]. When repeatedly seeking small corrections, there is mention of the possibility that strong appearance preoccupation (body dysmorphic disorder) may be present.[2].

How should I use them together in a consultation?

It is recommended to combine them according to your purpose.

To grasp the overall image: try changes with your own 3D[1]

To know the range of actual results: view photos of other people[1]

To align expectations with reality: ask to see a proposal with smaller changes too[2][3]

Whether the changes in the image can be realized within your own bone structure and skin cannot be judged from an article alone. During the examination, make sure to confirm how much of the image is realistic and how it will look after the swelling subsides.