Is It a Red Flag if a Surgeon Does Not Use Digital Imaging?

Digital imaging serves as an additional means of communication between the patient and the surgeon.  It should never be used as a ‘sales’ tool or as a means of over-promising a result.  The imaging performed should be a representation of realistic results after the normal swelling which takes place after surgery has mostly resolved.  If you feel that the ‘goals’ of your surgery have been appropriately communicated between yourself and your surgeon then imaging may be superfluous.  But in many cases it only serves to enhance communication.

Most of my patients coming for consultation for rhinoplasty procedure are very excited about computer imaging done during the consultation process. This great technology allows the patient to visualize final result.  Patients feel they have a better chance to express their expectations working together with a surgeon on their image.   This is now even more enhanced with Vectra 3D technology. Surgeon on the other hand can easily point out the limitations –what can and cannot be achieved. It is just a tool –great help, but should not define surgeon’s skills. The most important after all is surgeon’s experience and his capabilities to deliver the best result for the patient. So please choose an experienced,  board certified plastic surgeon that can demonstrate with before and after photos that he is the one you can trust to change you appearance. Only before and after photos are real and lots of them ! Computer imaging is easy. Surgery is not

There are a variety of reasons surgeons don't use computer imaging for rhinoplasty consultations.  Some are afraid of an implied warranty, some don't like computers, and some can't afford it.  It does add time to the consultation proces.  And yes, misused, it can be all marketing.  But in my view, computer imaging for rhinoplasty is a useful communications tool.  It helps me understand my patients better, and it helps them better understand my aesthetic goal for them.  If we can't agree on imaging, then we shouldn't go ahead.  So I don't think it is a red flag for a surgeon not to use imaging.  It is more important for you to see the surgeon's before and after photos.  Good luck