We’re all fascinated with makeovers. From home renovations to weight loss and cosmetic surgery,
witnessing a life-changing transformation is thrilling. As Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons, we’ve dedicated our lives to helping others feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin, and our Gallery and
Testimonial pages are filled with images and videos of satisfied clients, so you can
judge the results for yourself. While
we achieve natural and dramatic results at
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group, we know that some medical professionals aren’t exactly honest when sharing images of their work. Photoshopping skin texture and erasing sun damage are common practices, and sometimes
doctors use editing apps to create eye-popping results.
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.