In oncoplastic breast surgery, surgical treatment of cancer must be carefully balanced with preservation of breast appearance and quality of life.

During a fellowship at the Temerty Advanced Surgical Education & Simulation Centre in Toronto, Dr Mustafa developed a 3D MRI-based breast reconstruction model that enables surgeons and patients to interact with a three-dimensional representation of the breast, tumour, and surrounding anatomy. Rather than relying solely on conventional two-dimensional scans, these models provide a more intuitive understanding of tumour location and anatomical relationships, supporting surgical planning and patient discussions.

Rather than asking patients to imagine what clinicians see on scans, the interactive 3D visualisations help improve understanding of diagnosis and treatment options, helping patients feel more involved and confident in their decisions. The true significance of the technology lies not in the model itself, but in the conversations it enables – a reflection of how healthcare is moving towards more personalised care models, where patients' health goals and concerns are central to every treatment decision.