In accordance with one or more embodiments herein, a system for optimizing an implant position in an anatomical joint of a patient is provided. The system comprises a storage media and a processor which is configured to: receive medical image data representing a three dimensional image of the joint from the storage media； obtain a three dimensional virtual model of the joint which is based on the received medical image data； identify damage in the joint based on the received medical image data and/or the three dimensional virtual model of the joint； select a suitable implant template based on the identified damage； and position the selected implant template in the three dimensional virtual model of the joint. The processor is configured to position the implant template by: placing the implant template so that at least a major part of the damage is covered； and optimizing the tilt of the implant axis in order to minimize the total penetration into the bone.
