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Facial Plast Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2718-3825
Original Research

The Evolving Standards for Facial Plastic Photography in the Age of Social Media

Authors

  • Kiran Abraham-Aggarwal  ‡   ‡

    1   Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
    2   Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program, Goucher College, Baltimore, Maryland, United States

  • John Wilson IV‡   ‡

    3   Department of Otolaryngology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States

  • Andrew B. Yang

    4   Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, United States

  • John L. Frodel

    5   Department of Facial Plastic Surgery, Guthrie Healthcare System, Sayre, Pennsylvania, United States
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Abstract

Introduction

Standardized photography is foundational in facial plastic surgery (FPS) for accurate documentation of outcomes. The increased use of smartphones and social media introduces challenges such as variable lighting, filters, and digital manipulation that can distort results.

Objectives & Hypotheses

To examine current FPS photography standards and propose updated guidelines that address the influence of digital platforms. We hypothesize that modern adaptations are required to ensure accuracy and patient trust.

Study Design

Perspective on FPS photography standards in the age of social media.

Methods

We reviewed published recommendations, historical practices, and recent studies on perioperative FPS photography, including the impact of smartphone technology and social media on standardization.

Results

Findings highlight that smartphone photography and social media images often introduce bias through inconsistent angles, lighting, and digital enhancements.

Conclusion

Revised photographic guidelines that integrate digital-era considerations are necessary to maintain accuracy, transparency, and ethical standards in FPS.

Keywords

photography - guidelines - preoperative photography - clinical outcomes

‡ These authors contributed equally to this article.




Publication History

Received: 29 July 2025

Accepted: 22 September 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
08 October 2025

Article published online:
22 October 2025

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