Are All PS Supposed to Have Before and After Photo's for Patients to See?

   Most plastic surgeons have before and after photos to give patients an idea of the results that can be expected.  However, it is not mandatory to show patients photos of former patients.

Hello, this  is in excellent question. We get this question often in our practice. We are more than happy to show some prospective patients  some of our work. Most plastic surgeons will be happy to show examples of the work they've gone over the years. This may also include examples where the scarring may not be optimal. Be prepared to ask the surgeon and/or his staff to see some of their best case's and  also some other more average surgical results. I feel that this is an excellent way for patients to get as much information as possible.

 

Personal outcome photos are part of the information process for the patient.  Both good and bad outcomes should be part of the education process.

Thank you for the question. No is the answer to your question. But, the reason for having before and after pictures is to help patients make a decision on the surgery and they become better informed about their procedure. Seeing where the scars are going to be, the different shapes of the breast etc.  will allow a better understanding of the procedure to the patient. It is best if these photos are from the surgeon's own photo gallery. And I do advise my patient to check the before and after gallery on my website.

I do not think that it is possible to generalize about every plastic surgery practice. However, most plastic surgeons I know take pictures of their patients before and after surgery; these pictures can be used for future patient education. I find that my patients appreciate the  opportunity to see lots of examples of our work;  this experience also helps develop patient confidence in our abilities.  Sometimes patients use previous patients' photographs to help communicate their goals as well.

 Frankly, I would be concerned if ( as a patient)  a plastic surgeon is not able to show me examples of previous patients he/she has helped.

 I hope this helps.