Can you present yourself?
My name is Omar Tillo and I am one of the plastic and reconstructive surgeons practicing in central London in the United Kingdom. My work is focused on body contouring and body surgery from the head down, using fat transfer as well as implants.
What is your experience with 3D custom-made implants?
I have been using 3D Custom Aided Design implants for the last 4 years, treating a wide range of conditions, mostly Pectus Excavatum and Poland syndrome. I think this technique is very useful to give each patient a specific correction.
An important part of my work is focused on calf augmentation, calf reconstruction and correction of leg asymmetries. Thus the 3D implant technique is a great option to achieve as much symmetry as possible of the legs.
Do you have an example of an indication treated with this technique?
I have an example, a young lady, around 28 years old, with a calf asymmetry due to a defect of the growth of one of her legs which became very thin compared to the other side. She was conscious of her state and wouldn’t wear clothes like skirts or shorts, affecting every aspect of her life in terms of clothing or activities like going on holidays.
So the AnatomikModeling team designed an implant based on her CT scan, we performed the calf atrophy surgery and she recovered very well. It transformed her life as she became more confident, allowing herself to go to the beach on her vacation and wear skirts.
In my opinion it was a very good indication, giving her the best possible symmetry for a calf augmentation surgery.
What is your feedback about the implant technique?
Overall, I have a very positive experience using 3D computer designed implants. The process may take a few weeks but the patients don’t mind as long as they are aware of it. They understand the process is long and intensive but they like that because they appreciate the care they have been given, with a design personalized for them.
In terms of the outcome of the surgery, as the implants are designed from the patient’s CT scan, showing their muscles and skeleton, it fits perfectly to their anatomy. Compared with the old way of creating custom-made implants (based on external molds), this technique is much more accurate.
In terms of procedure, it is straightforward and easy to perform with no major issues during the recovery time. I never had any patient with long term problems and all the patients I had were really happy with the outcome!
