Advantages of 3D imaging may include:

	The ability to visualize the effect of specific implant sizes.
	The ability to calculate an implant size to match a simulation.
	The ability to obtain measurements in 3 dimensions.

Advantages of 2D imaging:

	2D imaging is much simpler, faster, and easier than 3D imaging.
	2D simulation is far easier and much more flexible than 3D imaging. With 2D simulation, you can make any kind of simulation you want. With 3D simulation, you are limited to the domain-specific tools that come with the 3D software.
	2D imaging requires no dedicated space. Many AlterImage users take a digital image of the patient right in the consultation room.
	2D imaging is much less expensive, anywhere from about 1/10th the price to 1/100th the price of 3D imaging.

2D medical imaging can be done with any kind of digital camera. But 3D medical imaging requires the use of a sophisticated dual-camera setup or a separate pattern projection system. Inexpensive single-camera 3D is too inaccurate for medical use.