A recent new trend in the Korean medical field has taken plastic surgeons into the realm of 3D imaging.
Using facial scans and X-ray photographs, researchers have now developed a way to reconstruct a detailed three-dimensional image of a patient's face.
But this cutting-edge technology isn't merely skin deep.

Patients and doctors are able to take a look at everything from facial skin, muscles, and bone structure as well how each might affect the other in a surgical procedure.


[Interview : Lee Yang-gu, Specialist
Dental Hosptial ] "Patients will be able to exactly know how they will look like after medical treatment. With this technology we'll be able to provide more accurate information on their before and after appearance."

In order to achieve this kind of precise imaging in the past, multiple CT scans were required.
Unfortunately, concerns about radiation exposure persuaded academics and researchers to develop a new technology that could provide clinics with imaging data, quickly and accurately.


[Interview : Baek Seung-hak, Professor
Seoul University Dental Hospital] "With this type of skeletal and muscular work, there are a lot of changes being made. Depending on the type of face, a large amount of sample data is needed for each individual. This provides a more personalized and accurate diagnosis."

To scan the surface of the patient's face, several kinds of medical equipment are needed.


[Interview : Kim Jin-Soo, CEO
3D Medical Imaging Company] "Traditionally, only two-dimensional data was used in a diagnosis. If you wanted a three-dimensional image you would use CT scans, but that had problems with the exposure to radiation.
But now with harmless 3D scanning and X-ray images, we're able to provide the world's first and most advanced technology in providing accurate diagnosis and counseling."


The Korea Health Industry Development Institute predicts that the medical tourism industry will grow by 36 percent this year, with over 150,000 medical tourists in 2012.

Paul Yi, Arirang News

Reporter : arirangpaulyi@gmail.com