Abstract

Objectives: 1. Assessing the feasibility of the online consultations using 3D imaging in aesthetic breast surgery 2. Evaluating the precision of 3D imaging for surgical planning without pre-surgery physical encounters. 3. Examining the conversion rate of online consultations, utilising 3D imaging Introduction: In the past decade, plastic and reconstructive surgery have embraced telemedicine and 3D imaging. The senior author, M.O., practicing across countries, adopted these tools to overcome access limitations. This retrospective study assesses the conversion rate and feasibility of online consultations using 3D imaging for visits and surgical planning without pre-surgery physical encounters. It explores the efficacy of these innovations in transcending geographical barriers and enhancing patient outcomes, recognizing their potential impact on the future of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Materials / method: We present 15 consecutive patients who underwent virtual visits with 3D imaging for breast procedures; augmentation(10), hybrid augmentation(2), mastopexy(2), breast reduction(1). Solely telemedicine consultations were conducted. Patients could simulate implant sizes using rice-filled stockings or online-bought silicone insets. Thanks to the precise 3D imaging, only one implant could be ordered for 80% of the breasts and two for the remaining 20% of the breasts. Conversion rates of these 15 cases were compared to the ones of 30 patients with traditional outpatient visits in the same timeframe. Results: The operations could be regularly performed as planned through the online consultation without difficulties. The implants chosen thanks to the 3D measurements revealed themselves as precise and accurate for 100% of the cases. The patients could be effortlessly followed up with online consultations and during the follow-up visits the patients’ expressed satisfaction for the results. The conversion rate was higher for the online consultation patients, with an 87% rate compared to 60% of patients who underwent regular physical consultation. Conclusion: The implementation of 3D imaging and online consultations in preoperative visits is an effective method to allow for surgery planning without the need to see the patient beforehand. These virtual tools broaden the possibilities and break down boundaries for both the patients and the surgeons. 3D imaging can both effectively provide result visualization to the patients and at the same time deliver precise measurements to the operator, allowing for an accurate and minimalistic surgical planning. Furthermore, the conversion rate is positively affected by the implementation of these tools.