Plastic Surgery Before and After Photos

Choosing a surgeon can sometimes be the most stressful part of undergoing a plastic surgery procedure. During your consultations, you’ll want to carefully scrutinize each surgeon’s portfolio in order to assess which is best suited for you. Here are some things to consider when reviewing plastic surgery before and after photos.

1. Are the pictures clear?

The pictures should appear sharp with no blur. They should be in full color and against a solid blue or white background so as not to distract from the subject. Neither the before or after should be a dramatic portrait.

The before should appear natural, not heavily shadowed or bright to obscure the subject’s features as they normally appear. The after should be resemble the same positioning and expression as the original for easy comparison. The after shot should be plain as well so as not to distract from the plastic surgery.

2. Does the subject appear natural?

The hair should be pulled back from the face to view facial procedures. No makeup, accessories, or other distractions should be worn. The after pictures should be taken no later than a year and a half after the procedure was performed in order to see maximum results.

3. Do the pictures represent a wide spectrum of patients?

A plastic surgeon’s portfolio should represent both genders (when applicable for the procedure) and a variety of different ethnicities and age groups. The results will of course vary by individual, but should appear natural and suited for each person’s unique overall features. Keep an eye out for patients with similar complaints and features to yours and their after results.

4. Are there enough examples?

Three or four patient before and after photos is not enough to measure the consistency and quality of a plastic surgeon’s work. You should be able to view many photos in order to best evaluate a surgeon’s skill and experience.

5. Can you speak with former patients?

Often surgeons can offer to help arrange a meeting or phone call with a previous patient to help you further understand the procedure and get an up close view of his work. Seeing the results in person is more accurate than just viewing a mere photo. It can also reveal his patient’s point of view and opinion on not only the results, but the process of the surgery.

6. Are there revision photos?

It is not unusual for plastic surgeons to perform revisions on others works and even their own. Inquire if any of these pictures are available. Not every surgeon, no matter how skilled, is able to perform a surgery perfectly the first time. If revision photos show marked improvement, it demonstrates his ability to correct mistakes and satisfy patients.

7. Does the plastic surgeon’s portfolio make you feel more or less confident?

Ideally, after viewing plastic surgery patients, you should feel more confident in the surgeon you choose. The after pictures should reflect similar aesthetic taste to your own as well as a high level of skill. If you find yourself feeling more apprehensive about a plastic surgery procedure after viewing a surgeon’s portfolio, take the time to consult with others and compare their work.