Application of Three-Dimensional Printing in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

Recently, three-dimensional (3D) printing technology can produce any 3D shape of solid scaffolding that can be designed by digital image. Thus, there are many potential patient-specific applications for 3D printing in medicine, including facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, which could have a significant impact in changing the ways patients are treated for various conditions in the future. To date, individually printed metal implants and synthetic devices are currently being used on limited cases in various medical fields, including facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Herein we describe concepts and characteristics of 3D printing technology and its clinical applications in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.