In recent years, affordable 3D printers have gained popularity. We acquired an economical model from an online platform and assessed its suitability for 3D modeling involving the maxillofacial region. The printer, priced at 13,000 yen, operates based on the FDM method, featuring a 10×10-cm size and 0.4-mm nozzle diameter. We generated models representing the nasal, ear, and mandibular areas. All models exhibited ample precision for preoperative evaluation, showcasing commendable performance despite the low price point. While there is room for improvement in terms of durability and usability, this budget-friendly 3D printer is satisfactory for modeling anatomical structures and has broad potential for educational purposes. We will elucidate the fundamental knowledge essential for utilizing 3D printers and showcase models applicable to the field of plastic surgery. Although the widespread clinical application of 3D printers is anticipated in the future, we advocate their use for educational purposes and provide an overview of their potential applications.
