How Accurate is the 3D Breast Augmentation Simulation?

The Vectra 3D simulation is a very powerful tool for breast augmentation, and Dr. Slenkovich uses it for virtually every consultation for breast surgery and rhinoplasty, as well as for some liposuction and facial rejuvenation consultations too. You can see what your “after” would look like before having surgery by comparing your existing appearance with the simulated changes from different angles to get a complete picture of your expected surgical results.

How does the 3D simulation work?

From a technical standpoint, the Vectra 3D system that we use at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center uses a set of calibrated cameras to take a 180 degree image of the body or face. This image is then combined with 3D image processing and simulation tools specifically designed for plastic surgery procedures.

From a practical standpoint, we use the 3D plastic surgery simulation as a valuable communication tool during your breast augmentation consultation process. We provide you with the option of participating in the photo simulation during your consultation. Dr. Slenkovich spends time learning about your individual goals and what is motivating you to seek surgery. After a careful examination, Dr. Slenkovich is able to use the three-dimensional simulation to help get a clearer understanding of what you are looking to achieve with breast implants, as well as to review things that are specific to your anatomy or that may be limitations. The implants are programmed with the manufacturer’s specifications, so you can virtually “try on” different implant sizes and shapes to see how they would look on your own body.

How accurate is the 3D breast augmentation simulation?

The exact accuracy of the 3D simulation does vary from person-to-person and these factors are discussed by Dr. Slenkovich during your breast augmentation consultation. However, we have found the tool to be fairly accurate for most breast augmentation patients. The Vectra 3D system is programmed with the exact volume and shape dimensions of each type breast implant, and it even shows the differences between round implants and the teardrop shaped implants.

Below are three different breast augmentation patients’ actual simulation and post surgery photos to show the accuracy of the simulated results. Each set of images shows the simulated breast augmentation with the desired implant size and the results of the surgery six months after the breast implants have been placed.

(Left – simulation, Right – 6 months post op)

(Left – pre-op, Middle – simulation, Right – 6 months post-op)

(Left – 6 months post op, Right – simulation)

The breast surgery simulation is also extremely helpful to you, as a breast augmentation patient, when choosing an implant size and shape by providing you with a visual concept of what various implants will look like in your body.

If you are considering a breast augmentation, learn more about the timeline and what to expect with our Breast Surgery Timeline.

To see results from our patients who have had breast augmentation procedures, view our Before and After Photo Gallery or learn more about your options by contacting us to schedule a 3D simulation consultation to see which breast implants will give you the look you desire.