Vectra imaging systems have given patients interested in breast augmentation the opportunity to pre-operatively view a simulation of their post-operative result for any given implant. While the images have provided useful information for patients the accuracy of the imaging system has not been assessed. Determining how similar the Vectra simulation is to actual post-operative results would be helpful in allowing patients to make more informed decisions in breast augmentation.
Methods/Technique:
Twenty consecutive patients who underwent Vectra imaging both pre-operatively and at 3 months post-operatively following breast augmentation were evaluated. Volumetric analysis was performed to determine the differences in volume between the pre-operative simulation and the actual post-operative result. The location along the breast mound where volumes varied most was determined.
Results/Complications:
The patients mean age was 28 years with a mean BMI of 22.4. Pre-operative cup size was A or B cup with minimal ptosis (grade 0 or 1) in all patients. A total of 40 breast were evaluated. There were no complications or revisions. All implants were round silicone with a mean volume of 316.4cc. The difference between pre-operative and post-operative volumes in the breast ranged from 1.7cc to 68.4cc (mean 18.9 cc). This represented a 5.9% difference between pre-operative simulation and post-operative results. The difference in volume was most common along the lower and/or upper poles.
Conclusion:
The Vectra imaging system gives a pre-operative simulation that is greater than 90% accurate in predicting post-operative breast volume. This information can help better educate our patients when using the Vectra system during pre-operative consultation for breast augmentation.