Personalized 3D molds to shape breast reconstruction
Official title: Clinical decision-support algorithms for interactive design of patient-specific breast molds
Funded at University of Oklahoma · NIH-11604133 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A doctor-relevant project is testing patient-specific 3D printed molds to guide breast reconstruction after mastectomy, aiming to improve body image and quality of life for feminine-presenting individuals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norman, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $743,534 |
| NIH project number | 7R01CA286648-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11604133 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals undergoing autologous breast reconstruction who have specific, personalized goals for breast form beyond replicating the preoperative shape.
✕Less likely to help
Patients seeking only standard preoperative replication of their breasts or who are not pursuing autologous reconstruction may see limited benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses 3D printing and smart algorithms to create molds tailored to each patient’s desired breast shape after mastectomy. The approach seeks to move beyond copying the preoperative breast by designing molds that fit individual goals, potentially shortening procedures and reducing the need for multiple revisions. Patients would work with clinicians to specify their goals, and the molds would guide tissue shaping during reconstruction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could achieve more natural-looking results with fewer surgeries and shorter recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Prior small studies showed feasibility of patient-specific molds, but rigorous evaluation of molds for non-standard goals is still needed.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma
Norman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merchant, Fatima Aziz — University of Oklahoma
- Study coordinator: Merchant, Fatima Aziz
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.