Posted by 
Breast cancer patients who have undergone a mastectomy are now being given a glimpse into the future at Royal Preston Hospital.
Rosemere Cancer Foundation has funded a new 3D camera and its imaging software which can show patients how reconstructive surgery might be able to help them look.
Lucy Tinniswood, the team lead medical photographer, said: “With the new camera, we just need three to six images, which are stitched together and uploaded to the software to create one 3D image.
“This image can be rotated in any direction for a 180-degree or 360-degree view. It can show accurate automated measurements where previously the surgeon had to physically measure the patient. It also allows for an element of manipulation for pre-operative planning and visualisation of what someone could look like post-operatively and post-reconstructive surgery.
“For a breast cancer patient who is considering reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy, the surgeon can now show them an image of the potential end result, helping them to make an informed decision. It is hoped that managing expectations will help reduce the number of surgeries a patient will need to go through.”
Read more: Astley Park School ends summer term in a blaze of colour
It is not just breast cancer patients set to benefit from the new technology.
Lucy and her team work with consultant plastic surgeons, Mr Jeyaram Srinivasan and Mr Chidi Ekwobi and also with the hospital’s maxillo-facial specialists.
Their patients include those who are undergoing potentially disfiguring treatment for mouth, head and neck cancers, who may be offered facial reconstructive surgery.
Read more: Booths in Fulwood brings in car park changes
As well as this, burns and accidents patients could also see how plastic surgery may be able to shape their future too.
Lucy and her team were given £14,675 by Rosemere Cancer Foundation to add to £10,000 from the Plastic Surgery Department to pay for the 3D camera and its software.
To find out more about Rosemere Cancer Foundation you can visit their website.
Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.
Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines
