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Preoperative 3-dimensional Simulation in Aesthetic Surgery
Bishara S Atiyeh1, Oussama B Issa1, Fayez J Daoud1
1From the Faculty of Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|August 6, 2026
Summary
Preoperative 3D simulation in aesthetic surgery improves communication but accuracy varies. Patients must understand that simulations may not perfectly predict final surgical outcomes, avoiding potential dissatisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Medical Simulation
- Surgical Planning
Background:
- Patient understanding of aesthetic surgery outcomes is often poor.
- Preoperative simulation enhances surgeon-patient communication but lacks objective accuracy assessment.
- Ethical and legal implications of simulation-outcome discrepancies are underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current applications of 3D simulation in aesthetic surgery.
- To summarize the accuracy of preoperative simulations compared to actual surgical results.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search for clinical studies on aesthetic surgery simulation accuracy.
- Included studies focused on comparing preoperative simulations with postoperative outcomes.
Main Results:
- Seventeen studies were reviewed, focusing on breast augmentation (12) and rhinoplasty (5).
- Simulation accuracy varied, particularly for rhinoplasty.
- While some 3D breast augmentation software shows high accuracy, dissatisfaction exists, and sole reliance on simulation can be misleading.
Conclusions:
- 3D simulation is a valuable tool for planning and consultation in aesthetic surgery.
- Recognizing the potential mismatch between simulation and outcome is crucial.
- Informing patients about simulation limitations is essential to prevent unrealistic expectations and potential dissatisfaction.
