Press about Charlotte plastic surgery

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Jan 14, 2009) – The Refine Institute, a new high-technology cosmetic surgery practice in Ballantyne, has announced that it is the first and only practice in the Carolinas to have the Vectra 3D imaging system, a computer system designed to simulate post-surgical results using three-dimensional images.  The Vectra 3D imaging system offers patients the opportunity to see possible results before surgery is performed, allowing doctors to better manage expectations while easing patient anxiety.

The system, designed by Canfield Scientific, Inc. uses special cameras with multiple lenses to capture a 360 degree image of the patient in less than two milliseconds.  The image is then loaded into the Vectra 3D Sculptor Tool software and used during the patient’s consultation.  The software allows the doctor to show the patient multiple views of the body, simulated outcomes and even side-by-side before and after pictures---all before surgery is performed. 

Dr. Broc Pratt, who leads the new practice, said this technological breakthrough will make it easier for patients to review their options.

“Using the Vectra really differentiates The Refine Institute from our competitors because it allows us to provide high-level consultations with our patients,” Dr. Pratt said.  “The technology also allows our patients to be much more involved in the process including giving us more input on choices such as the size and type of breast implants.  The additional knowledge gained from the Vectra means that our patients not only have a much better understanding of their options, but they have a realistic idea of the end result via the three-dimensional photos of their own body.”

Dr. Pratt said that the Vectra 3D Breast Sculptor Tool also benefits surgeons because many women do not have asymmetrical breasts before surgery.  This means that two different sized implants might be necessary to create a cosmetically pleasing result.  Before using the Vectra, Dr. Pratt had to estimate the variance between the breasts.   Now the Vectra software provides exact measurements and calculates the variance, leaving the guesswork behind and ensuring a more exact result for the patient.

The Refine Institute is in a very select group of only 20 cosmetic surgery practices in the nation to have the Vectra 3D Imaging System.   This is not surprising considering Dr. Pratt’s passion for combining technology with plastic surgery.  Dr. Pratt is specialty trained in body contouring and breast augmentation and has spent the past 10 years training with some of the most experienced surgeons in the country. 

The Refine Institute opened its doors in October 2008.  The practice specializes in body contouring and breast augmentation using the most advanced technology on the market.  When Canfield Scientific releases the Vectra 3D Body Sculptor Tool later this month, Refine will add it to their practice.  The Body Sculptor Tool will allow Dr. Pratt to use the same three-dimensional technology for other surgical procedures such as liposuction and tummy tucks.     

The Refine Institute is a full-service, high-technology cosmetic surgery firm specializing in minimally invasive procedures of the body including Smartlipo, SmartXide DOT laser skin resurfacing, tummy tucks and breast augmentation.  The Refine Institute is located at 7725 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Suite 101, Charlotte, NC 28277.  For more information about The Refine Institute, visit www.refineinstitute.com or call 704-909-4800.