Before And After Images Reveal More Than Just Results.
Photos document procedures from start to finish, ensuring our results are truly visible. They also help you see subtle changes you might otherwise miss. Unfortunately, unscrupulous doctors can alter images to falsely enhance results and increase patient traffic. You’ve probably used one of the filters on your smart phone, too, so you know how easy it is to alter an image. As you embark on your rejuvenation journey, please keep these tips in mind… 4 Top Tips for Spotting Fake or Misleading Before and After Photos#1 Inconsistent Lighting
Nearly every surgeon takes before and after images in a dedicated plastic surgery photography room with consistent lighting year-round. These photos are set against a plain background (often blue) with no distracting objects or decorations. If the images you’re viewing are dark, distorted, or appear to be a different color than the original picture, chances are the lighting is being manipulated to enhance imperfections in the “before” image. Tip: Watch out for images that use a flash in the “after” photo but not the “before.” The variations in light trick the eye into seeing things as better or worse depending on the circumstances. Positioning matters too. “A preoperative photo with top lighting will make someone look worse, while an after photo with lights head-on “drown out” wrinkles or contour irregularities,” says Dr. Layke. Pay attention to the depth as well. “Along with the lighting, the depth of the photo is another key element to keep in mind when evaluating before and after photos,” adds Dr. Danielpour.
#2 Awkward or Mismatched Angles
Edited head shots showing the patient facing the camera might be hard to pick out, but it should be easy to spot a sagging jawline in photos taken from the side. An authentic set of “before” and “after” photos should include front and side views taken straight on, not slanted or angled in any way. Neck lift photos are often exaggerated to dramatize results. An authentic “before” photo of the neck should show soft, rounded tissue along the jaw and a smooth, taut jawline afterwards.
Tip: Be wary of images where the patient is tilting his/her head back. That extra lift can make the results more dramatic than they actually are. And remember, the more natural the pose, the more trustworthy the image.
#3 Exaggerated Postures
Sometimes the “after” picture looks amazing because the person in the “before” photo is photographed in a way that makes the problem area look worse. For example, images of someone pulling their chin down toward their chest in an exaggerated manner makes neck wrinkles look even more prominent. “When looking at a face or neck lift, keep track of the lateral view,” adds Dr. Layke. “Many times, the patient is shortening their neck by pointing their chin down, causing the neck to look worse than it is. The after photo has the patient with their chin looking slightly upward, making the neck result look better.”
#4 Extreme Makeup Variations
Patients often return for follow-up visits and “after” photos weeks after their procedure while wearing makeup. Life happens, and newfound confidence may entice someone to change hair styles or arrive at their follow-up visit with a full face of makeup.
Wearing makeup for the after images is very common, but when you encounter images that are immensely different due to makeup or hair it’s best to scrutinize them more carefully.
Jaw dropping visual transformations are compelling, but remember, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is rule number one.
We’re looking forward to sharing our artistry with you anytime. Please reach out to our dedicated team at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group to learn more.
