Assessment of Patient Satisfaction Using a New Augmented Reality Simulation Software for Breast Augmentation: A...

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Medical Simulation
• Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

• Breast augmentation is a common plastic surgery procedure.
• 3D simulations enhance pre-operative planning and patient expectation management.
• Objective evidence comparing 3D simulations to actual outcomes is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the aesthetic similarity between Arbrea 3D breast augmentation simulations and one-year post-operative results.
• To assess patient satisfaction with pre-operative 3D simulations and surgical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving patients undergoing breast augmentation.
• Patients rated simulation realism using a custom scale.
• Patient satisfaction assessed via Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and BREAST-Q Augmentation Module.

Main Results:

• Patients reported high satisfaction with simulations (mean VAS 8.2 ± 1.2) and surgical outcomes.
• Simulations accurately represented attained breast volume.
• Statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) were noted between pre-operative simulations and one-year post-operative BREAST-Q assessments, particularly in shape.

Conclusions:

• Arbrea 3D software provides a highly satisfying pre-operative simulation for breast augmentation patients.
• While volume simulation is very accurate, patients should be informed that breast shape correspondence is not absolute.
• 3D simulation is a valuable tool for patient satisfaction and expectation management in breast augmentation.