The 3D printing of medical devices is now a reality. The rapidly expanding field allows for incredible improvements in patient care, especially with regard to cost-effectiveness, productivity, and a greater democratization and collaboration of design and manufacturing. 3D printing technologies have also expanded capabilities for mass customization of products.[i] For example, using only photographs, custom-fit hearing aids can now be designed in a matter of hours to mold perfectly to a patient’s ear canals.
