Summary
Statements regarding outcome in Plastic Surgery are often subjective and lack reproducibility,
mainly because of lack of quantification of aesthetic issues. A method is being presented
using maxillo-facial injuries as a prototype, to resolve virtually any plastic surgical
problem into 3 basic components – Function, Aesthetics and Psycho-social. Unfavourable
results are graded according to a strictly defined protocol. Aesthetic evaluation
is performed by the patient and relatives/friends in a manner designed to reduce subjectivity
and physician-induced bias.
The system provides a comprehensive patient-satisfaction index which has been found
useful for everyday post-surgical assessment and computer-based data-recording. It
allows us to quantify results, pin point shortcomings and foster a desirable doctor-patient
relationship.
With the use of such a system it should be possible to document, compare and even
predict treatment-outcomes with a degree of precision not previously achieved.
