Using 3-D Computer Technologies, Dr. Binder creates precise Custom Facial Implants

There are times in facial contouring when existing facial implants don’t provide the optimal solution for correcting a complex facial contour defect or meet the aesthetic needs of a cosmetic surgery patient. For these cases, Dr. Binder has designed a system capable of fabricating extremely accurate and anatomical custom-designed implants.

Who is a candidate for a Custom Facial Implant?

In spite of the advancements in facial implant materials and construction, “off the shelf” facial implants may not meet the needs of a patient with extensive or unusual congenital or post-traumatic facial deformities. In these reconstructive surgery cases, Dr. Binder can create custom implants that can restore and correct contouring defects on almost any area of the face.
Custom facial implants can also be made for more complex cosmetic surgery patients who desire an extremely exact and individualized facial implant solution. For these patients, the custom implants have other advantages including reduced time in surgery.

Three-Dimensional CT Scanning and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Technologies

Dr. Binder has designed a system capable of fabricating custom-designed implants using the 3-D Accuscan® process with computerized X-ray imaging such as the CT (computed tomography) scan. These highly precise scanned images are then put into 3-D computer design and computer manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software to create custom-designed implants that enable the reconstruction of most facial contour defects with a much greater degree of accuracy.

Custom Facial Implant Procedure

This process begins with a CAT scan taken of the anatomical area surrounding the defect. A computerized three-dimensional image is created from the scan and is available for examination through a video screen. Then, using the 3-D CAD/CAM software, the image is transformed to enable an exact life-size model of the skeletal structure to be created. The anatomical model is then used to facilitate production of an extremely accurate implant that will exactly correct the contour deformity. The back surface of the implant is extremely precise, fitting the contour of the bony defect and interlocking with the underlying bone to provide long-term stability, preventing movement or slippage.

Advantages

Today’s available computer designed “off the shelf” implants are able to satisfy the needs of the majority of operations performed for aesthetic enhancement and facial rejuvenation. But there are cases of an unusual deformity or to where a specific aesthetic goal is desired where the ability to create a precise custom implant can have a significant and very satisfying effect.

Also, the application of 3-dimensional computer imaging technology expedites surgery for ease of application and more exacting results. Since most of the work to create the implant is performed prior to surgery (requiring very little modification during the actual operation), this reduces the time (and associated costs) needed for the patient to be under anesthesia and overall surgery time is reduced. As a result, the procedure can usually be performed on an outpatient basis with fewer complications.

About Dr. Binder

Dr. William J. Binder helped pioneer the modern concept of “Facial Contouring” with new tools and techniques including a new generation of facial implants created using 3-D computer imaging. Among the most significant of his innovations is the patented BINDER SUBMALAR® FACIAL IMPLANT for restoring youthful contours and volume to the face. He is double-board certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery.

Click here for more on Dr. Binder or go to www.doctorbinder.com