92. Can We Innovate the Teaching of Facial Anatomy for Aesthetic Surgery Using 3D Photogrammetry and Immersive Virtual Reality

PURPOSE: This study aims to overcome the limitations of traditional anatomical resources in surgical training by developing reproducible and interactive 3D models of the layered facial anatomy using advanced 3D photogrammetry and photography techniques. Standard references like Netter’s Surgical Anatomy and Gray’s Anatomy provide limited surgical perspectives. While cadaveric dissection remains a valuable teaching tool, its use is often limited by high costs, restricted access, ethical concerns, and the absence of a structured curriculum, particularly in low-resource settings. METHODS: Six fresh cadaveric specimens were dissected by a plastic surgeon to reveal the intricate layers of facial anatomy. At each stage of dissection, high-resolution, 360-degree images were captured using five Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras and a 3D handheld camera. The captured images were processed through photogrammetry scanner to generate precise 3D models. These models were integrated into virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platforms for interactive manipulation and were also used to create 3D-printed anatomical models for hands-on demonstration. RESULTS: The photogrammetric technique successfully generated detailed 3D models of the dissected facial anatomy, which were highly reproducible and could be digitally manipulated to emphasize specific structures. However, this technique encountered challenges in accurately texturing delicate vessels and nerve structures. To address this, we rendered the original photographs to create hyper-realistic models, ensuring precise anatomical representation. The VR and AR platforms enabled learners to interact with the models in an immersive environment, providing enhanced visualization of surgical landmarks. Moreover, a 3D-printed model served as a tangible learning tool, offering a comprehensive, multimodal educational experience. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that 3D photogrammetry, combined with VR, AR, and 3D printing, creates accurate, reproducible, and interactive anatomical models that address the shortcomings of traditional anatomical resources. By providing a cost-effective, accessible, and digitally manipulatable solution, this approach has the potential to transform surgical training and curriculum development. Further research should focus on incorporating these models into formal educational programs to assess their impact on surgical skill acquisition and proficiency.