3D and 4D virtual reality imaging systems are now being used by plastic and cosmetic surgeons to show patients their predicted outcomes before they go under the knife.
Crisalix is one such virtual aesthetics device that enables cosmetic enhancement candidates to ‘try on’ the potential results of various face and body procedures in real time.
Working with a 3D scan of the patient that Crisalix can create in seconds, doctors can use special Crisalix software to create simulations of the outcomes the patient would like to achieve. The client is then given a virtual reality headset to view the intended outcome of their procedure on their own body.
One major benefit of this technology is that it shows the patient what their face or body will look like in a mirror and as they would go about their everyday life. For example, a breast augmentation patient can see their new breasts from multiple mirror angles and look down at the size and shape of the breasts as if they were their own.
Crisalix creates 3D imaging for all types of cosmetic procedures, including breast enlargements, reductions, lifts and reconstructions; nose jobs, face lifts, blepharoplasty, cheek implants and lip augmentations; and tummy tucks, liposuction and body contouring. You can try on a variety of alterations to contrast shapes, sizes and techniques, so in the case of a breast augmentation, you can tell how a 300cc implant would compare with a 400cc implant on your body.
With the Crisalix app, you can share your simulation with friends and family for added feedback or post it anonymously to the Crisalix ‘before and after’ 3D community to get the opinion of other patients.
Compared to traditional enhancement consultations, Crisalix helps the patient visualise and experience how their body or face will look post-procedure. While there are no guarantees, it strengthens the line of communication between the patient and their doctor, ensuring that any concerns the patient may have are discussed before they enter the operating theatre and that their expectations in terms of results are realistic.
In this way, Crisalix is a valuable information and visualisation source that empowers the patient in making an informed decision about their enhancement journey.
Crisalix: a doctor’s view
Dr Steve Merten of Pure Aesthetics in Sydney is no stranger to 3D simulation software. As an Australian-trained specialist plastic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience, he is a recognised leader in the field of cosmetic plastic surgery and has been using Crisalix technology for 10 years. Here Dr Merten shares his and his patients’ experience with 3D imaging technology to achieve best-possible, predicatable outcomes:
‘I use Crisalix for most of my breast augmentation patients to assist in the consultation. During the first consultation, I use the Crisalix laser scanner to get a high quality near 3D image of their chest. Using this, I can add implants of various sizes and shapes so the patient can get an idea of what she will look like with implants, in different sizes and shapes.
‘This is implant-brand specific, so when I choose a particular implant style and size, the software simulates the dimensions of this specific implant. The Crisalix software then allows my patients to view these images at home, moving the image of their chest around fully, including from above and below.
‘Patients really like being able to see both what they look like “from the outside” and then what various implants will look like after surgery. Seeing the results on themselves is much more helpful than showing results of other patients. I find patients particularly like being able to look at the images at home with family and friends, and then at their second consult they have a much better idea of what implants they think will match their desired outcome. The Crislaix system also allows a 3D view with VR goggles, but I haven’t used this myself.
‘There is also a Crisalix app, whereby patients can log in at home and look at their own images, rotate them around from all different views, with the implants we have selected. The system doesn’t allow patients to input their own implants, which may be fun, but I think it is best that the surgeon chooses implants that are surgically suitable. I usually input a range of shapes and sizes that I think will give the best outcome, and they can look and compare these at home.
‘The key to achieving a great result is by listening to my patients’ concerns, careful planning and meticulous surgery. Crisalix is a useful planning tool in determining the most suitable breast shape and size for each individual.’
