Our
Approach: Computer Imaging
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In
our practice we may use imaging on a limited basis
for education and counseling our patients. We find
it especially helpful in discussing potential rhinoplasty
results, as it is an excellent way for a patient
to see his/her profile. Using the patient's digital
photo, our surgeons can demonstrate or discuss what
is within their abilities to achieve. Also our patients
can express their concerns and goals using their
own pictures.
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Computer Imaging; What You See is What You Get?
Cosmetic Surgery: Promises and Pitfalls™
PROMISES
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Using
digital photography and manipulation of the potential
patient's image, the doctor can show the patient
the predicted outcome of a given cosmetic operation.
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PITFALLS
- This technology has a tremendous potential for
abuse. The computerized alterations in the patient's
image can be used for the purpose of selling an operation.
In the advertisement below sent to cosmetic surgeons,
this marketing advantage of computer imaging is being emphasized to
sell imaging software to surgeons.
- When demonstrated by an assistant (often non-medical),
flaws can be completely erased which may
improve the computer image, but may not be realistically
possible through surgical techniques.
- Further, there are many factors that go into the
final outcome; some of these can be controlled and
others can't. Results can't be guaranteed. This is
especially true when these manipulations are performed
by anyone other than the surgeon.
- A sophisticated patient must realize that
computer imaging, while it may be educational and
reassuring is only an approximation of the final
surgical result. Read the disclaimer that appears
on the screen with the before and after images.
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Is
the computer the modern equivalent of a crystal
ball or is it just hi-tech marketing?
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