There is a great deal of controversy about these two subjects in plastic surgery, especially when they are shown on websites.

In my opinion, the purpose of showing photographs is to increase the knowledge of the patients. If done in an honest fashion, this is quite proper and gives a realistic expectation of the results of the procedures. To be honest in showing the photographs, patients should be shown the average results. But unfortunately, in most instances only one set of before-and-after photos is placed on the website, having been selected from the best results achieved. This, of course, gives the patient an unrealistic expectation and often results in disappointment following the operation.

The question of the use of computer imaging is just as controversial. Unfortunately, if used as a marketing tool rather than an information tool, computer imaging can give the patient an image of unrealistic results and can cause disappointment following the surgery. This is often the reason why patients sign a disclaimer that the result of the procedure may be different from what has been shown on the imaging system.

This is the basis of my decision not to place before-and-after photographs on my website and to not use computer imaging. We try not to impress our patients with unrealistic results. Should they desire to see before-and-after photographs, we will show them the more average and realistic ones and be most honest in informing them of the facts.