Instagram has been accused of fuelling insecurity amongst young Brits after it published a filter which appeared to promote plastic surgery. The filter – which is called “Fix Me” – mimics how a cosmetic surgeon might map out the lifts and tucks they will make on the operating table.
As technology advances, it is not unusual for us to see apps or gadgets that help us as surgeons to try to demonstrate what can be achieved to a patient. However, the worry to us is that filters on apps such as “Fix Me” give unrealistic expectations in terms of outcome.
Just because an effect can be achieved on an app, it does not mean we are physically able to produce it for a patient.
These filters do not take into account the health – both mental and phyiscal – of a patient . Certain companies do use technology to show a patient what the result of a breast augmentation might be. This is something we would not necessarily frown upon.
These programmes are developed specifically for this purpose, and are done with the involvement of the breast implant manufacturers. Thus they are relatively accurate and designed to be helpful in the consultation process.
Instagram and other social media platforms have undoubtedly had an effect on plastic surgery in the UK, in particular for facial treatments. Looking in the mirror is something we all do. However, posting pictures of ourselves on social media for some people adds a pressure to be seen as perfect, or better than we feel we really look.
Improving our looks is not a bad thing. Having unrealistic expectations or becoming obsessed with the way we look is.
