Abstract
Facial asymmetries can significantly affect patient satisfaction post-surgery. Social
media can impact a patient's perception of their asymmetries. To gather insights into
the practices, perceptions, and approaches concerning facial asymmetry among facial
plastic surgeons. The aim of this study was to understand the impact of social media
on perceptions of facial asymmetry. This is an American Academy of Facial Plastic
and Reconstructive Surgeons (AAFPRS) survey consisting of 46 questions that sought
to understand facial plastic surgeons' perceptions of facial asymmetry, their consultation
process, their patients' perspectives on their own facial asymmetries, and patient
satisfaction. The survey was distributed to 1,269 members of AAFPRS across community
hospitals, private practices, and academic hospitals. Sixty-seven members completed
the survey. The survey revealed that 31% (21) of surgeons face challenges in managing
patient expectations regarding facial asymmetry. In addition, 12% (8) of surgeons
felt that patients did not initially recognize their own asymmetries. Eighty-seven
percent (58) of surgeons emphasize the natural occurrence of asymmetry during consultations
to set realistic expectations. This study emphasizes the need for thorough patient
education during initial consultations to align expectations with achievable outcomes.
Surgeons should explain the natural occurrence of asymmetry clearly and use digital
imaging to show patients realistic previews of surgical results.
Keywords
facial asymmetry - facial plastic surgery - surgical outcomes - cosmetic enhancement
- surgical planning - patient satisfaction
