A Patient's Guide to the LifePrint 3D Journey
What to gather before you upload, what happens during review, and how to set expectations for timeline and outcome.
Whether ordering a fetal keepsake or an anatomical model from CT or MRI, the journey follows the same shape: gather the right file type, upload it for physician review before any payment, and receive an honest assessment of what your specific imaging can produce before committing to an order.
Whether you're ordering a fetal keepsake or an anatomical model from a CT or MRI, the overall journey follows a similar shape. Here's what to expect at each stage as a patient or family member.
Before You Upload: What To Gather
Start by identifying the specific file type your imaging center can export — a DICOM volume, or a vendor-specific 3D file. Printed photos or standard video files alone are usually not sufficient.
It's also helpful to know the gestational age (for pregnancy orders) or the imaging modality and body region (for anatomical models) before you begin your order.
What Happens After You Submit
Once uploaded, your file enters our review queue. You will not be charged at this stage — review comes first.
Our team examines the file for completeness and quality, and will reach out if anything is missing or if there are concerns about the achievable result.
Understanding Physician Review
Physician review exists to set honest expectations, not to create obstacles. If your file has limitations, you'll be told plainly what that means for the final model before you're asked to pay.
This step also confirms that the submitted imaging is appropriate for the type of model you've requested.
Setting Expectations for Timeline and Outcome
Most approved orders move from review to a shipped, finished model within two to three weeks, though complex anatomical models may take longer.
Because outcomes depend heavily on source imaging quality, we encourage patients to review our articles on image quality and timing before submitting, so expectations are grounded from the start.
Key Takeaways
- Start by identifying the specific file type your imaging center can export — a DICOM volume, or a vendor-specific 3D file.
- Once uploaded, your file enters our review queue.
- Physician review exists to set honest expectations, not to create obstacles.
- Most approved orders move from review to a shipped, finished model within two to three weeks, though complex anatomical models may take longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my file doesn't meet the quality bar?
We'll tell you directly and explain why, along with any options — you are never charged for a file that doesn't support a quality result.
Can I ask questions before ordering?
Yes. Our contact page is the best way to ask specific questions before you submit your file.
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