As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, it is impacting the field of cosmetic surgery. Experts have observed that prospective patients are increasingly using AI software to enhance their appearance digitally and then requesting that surgeons replicate these results. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Su stated, "More patients are bringing in AI-generated images during the consultation process."
Traditionally, inspiration photos have been a part of cosmetic surgery consultations, but now many individuals are presenting computer-generated images instead of real photographs, expecting their surgical outcomes to resemble these idealized representations. Dr. Su commented, "AI can create unrealistic expectations," particularly if patients believe that a simulated image can be achieved in reality.
A survey conducted by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center indicated that patients who utilized AI tools to create their desired look had "significantly higher" expectations for the results of their surgeries.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Su noted that AI can assist patients in articulating their visions when they struggle to express them verbally. He emphasized, "It can certainly help facilitate discussion and improve communication between patient and surgeon," but cautioned that patients must recognize that these images are illustrations, not definitive outcomes.
Dr. Su compared the current trend to patients previously bringing in celebrity photos, which were useful for surgeons as they were understood to represent someone else's features. He pointed out that AI-generated images can create unrealistic expectations because they often appear highly realistic, leading patients to believe that such results are achievable despite anatomical limitations.
He stressed that AI does not consider factors such as anatomy, tissue quality, healing, or the inherent limitations of surgical procedures. "AI is not showing a guaranteed outcome," he remarked.
Prior to the pandemic, a 2019 study found that 72% of facial plastic surgeons had patients seeking procedures to improve their appearance in selfies, a trend referred to as "Snapchat dysmorphia." While some surgeons have adopted AI simulators or medical-grade AI software in their practices, others, including Dr. Su, are cautious about its use, fearing it may lead to a homogenization of beauty standards.
Dr. Su concluded that the most successful results enhance a patient’s natural features rather than conforming to a singular AI-generated ideal. He asserted, "Beauty is not one size fits all. Neither is plastic surgery."