New technology sets visual for plastic surgery patients
A new 3D patient imaging device called the Vectra XT is drawing patient interest with a look at surgical results at the Wall Center for Plastic Surgery, located at 8600 Fern Ave. in Shreveport.
The Vectra XT, from Canfield Scientific Inc., is able to capture images used for the 3D simulation by simultaneous use of multiple cameras to photograph different views and angles of the patient. The Vectra XT is currently only being used for breast augmentation, breast reconstruction and rhinoplasties at the Wall Center, and it is included in the $50 consultation fee.
“This technology is just the beginning of many great things to come. If patients come to the consultation and want to think it over or share results with a family member or friend, they have a copy of their images to share,” Dr. Michael Lee, a plastic surgeon at the Wall Center, said. “Instead of having to rely on other patients’ before and after photos, we are able to show our patients anticipated results on their bodies.”
Before making any surgical decisions, the patient can essentially set realistic expectations without the use of any surgical instruments and can better communicate with the surgeon, Lee said.
The Wall Center is operated by four surgeons: Dr. Simeon Wall Sr., Dr. Holly Casey Wall, Dr. Simeon Wall Jr. and Dr. Michael Lee. Doctors and staff are trained in the 3D software that takes uploaded images taken onsite and immediately projects them onto one of the large television screens for the patient and doctor to discuss.
The Wall Center’s on-staff professional photographer, Christi Martin Nutt, operates the new equipment.
“Being able to create custom simulations of cosmetic and/or reconstructive surgeries that a patient is considering makes all the difference,” Nutt said.
She said the photographs taken by the Vectra XT “make it so much easier for the patient to communicate with the doctors. Patients can see what various implant sizes and shapes would look like on their figure.”
All current FDA approved brands of implants are uploaded in the system for the patients to “try out different looks until they find what they are looking for.” The before and after pictures can be seen side by side, and there is even the ability to see a quick demonstration on what to expect during the procedure. The superimposed results can be viewed on top of the before image to see the difference to be expected from the surgery. The Vectra XT has the capability to visualize manipulations on any part of the body, but the Wall Center is currently focusing on breast augmentations, reconstructions and rhinoplasties.
The machine accounts for asymmetry and is customizable for each patient based on their medical needs, skin elasticity and realistic desires.
Terri Brantley, office administrator at the Wall Center, said patients are excited and pleased to see the results before surgery.
“It resolves doubts and questions they might have, and in many cases helps them move from anxious to excited,” Dr. Simeon Wall Jr. said. “When patients can actually see what they may look like, rather than just talking about it and visualizing it in their minds, their odds of complete satisfaction increase dramatically.”
The Vectra XT has caused an increase in the Wall Center’s number of consultations that are following through with surgery because this surgical center offers the latest technological advancements in the field of plastics.
Lee said patients are more relaxed and confident in their surgical decisions since the introduction of this new technology, and “they are able to visualize and communicate using a visual aid of their own body.”
As with most plastic surgery, patient expectations are sometimes difficult to communicate due to a lack of medical terminology, but Lee said the Vectra XT reinforces patient interest.
“It is important for a person looking for a plastic surgeon to do his/her research to find a physician and staff that can offer realistic results and answers during the process,” Brantley said. “The new technology has patients ready to take their pictures.”
The Wall Center is one of the firsts to debut highly anticipated products and equipment.
“[Plastic surgery] has improved by leaps and bounds over the past several years,” Dr. Holly Casey Wall said. “The greatest reward is making a difference in the lives of our patients and in the specialty of plastic surgery.”
“Patient satisfaction is our number one goal, and the Vectra is just one way that we can help patient-doctor communication,” Lee said.
Contact 795-0801 to set up a consultation.
– Brittney Trahan
