Dr Rozina Ali is an internationally recognised consultant reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeon with almost 30 years of experience in breast surgery. Known for her regenerative, patient-centred philosophy and meticulous surgical planning, she combines anatomical expertise with advanced technology to deliver natural, proportionate results.
In this blog, she explains why she uses Crisalix 3D imaging in breast augmentation and how it enhances clarity, confidence and shared decision-making for her patients.
Breast augmentation is an elective procedure. Satisfaction is paramount. If a patient feels uncertain or misunderstood before surgery, that uncertainty can carry forward. For me, the consultation is not a formality, it is the foundation of the result.
Traditionally, implant selection involved placing sizers into a bra or reviewing before-and-after photographs of other women. While helpful, these methods require imagination on behalf of the patient. They do not account for projection, implant plane, breast footprint or tissue characteristics in a precise way.That is why I introduced Crisalix 3D simulation into my practice.
As a surgeon with decades of experience in breast aesthetics, my training enables me to visualise how tissues will respond to an implant. I understand how skin will stretch, how the nipple position may adjust, and how projection will alter the silhouette. But translating what I see in my mind into something a patient can fully grasp is not always straightforward. Crisalix bridges that gap.
Using a series of calibrated photographs, the system creates a three-dimensional model of the patient’s own body. We can then simulate different implant volumes, projections and placements. The images are interactive, realistic and can even be viewed using VR technology.
I adore the moment when the realisation dawns on a patient’s face. She can see herself, not another woman, with different implant options. She can view the result from multiple angles, with clothing or without, standing or lying down. It transforms an abstract decision into something tangible.
Importantly, this technology is not about guaranteeing results. I am always transparent about its limitations. If a very large implant is chosen in the simulator, the software cannot always predict how skin tension or tissue elasticity might limit that choice. That is where my role as surgeon is critical. Technology informs; experience guides.
What Crisalix does exceptionally well is improve communication. Studies evaluating 3D simulation in breast augmentation have shown that over 90% of patients find it helpful when choosing implant size, and a similar proportion report that their final result closely matches the simulation. In my own practice, I see this reflected in the confidence and clarity patients demonstrate before surgery.
It also supports shared responsibility. When a patient is involved in visualising and selecting her implant, the decision becomes collaborative rather than prescriptive. My patient can go home, review the simulations, consider them privately, even share them with friends and family if she wishes. The pressure of deciding alone, uninformed or “on the spot” is removed. This aligns completely with my philosophy of pro-active patient-centred care.
Breast augmentation is rarely about volume alone. It is about shape, lift and projection. It is about the breast footprint, base diameter, implant characteristics, tissue quality, symmetry, proportion and movement. It is about understanding how a breast should sit on the chest wall and how it should feel in motion. Crisalix helps me demonstrate these nuances clearly and visually.
For me, Crisalix is a vital and enjoyable educational tool. It allows patients to understand the architectural complexity of their own anatomy. It enables realistic expectations. It improves satisfaction. It reduces uncertainty. And ultimately, it supports what I value most, thoughtful, informed, empowered decision-making.
If you are considering breast augmentation and would like to understand what is possible for you and your individual anatomy and personal preference, I would be delighted to guide you through that process, with insight, honesty and the very best tools available.
