Navigating a Surgeon’s Before-and-After Photo Gallery: What to Look For

Looking at before-and-after photo galleries is an important step when choosing a plastic surgeon. You want to find patients who are similar to you that achieved the results you desire.

In this post, San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Abhay Gupta discusses what to look for when navigating a surgeon’s before-and-after photo gallery.

Find Patients Like You

Every patient is unique, but you should look for before photos that remind you of yourself in some way. Depending on what procedure you are considering, you may look for the following things:

• Similar body type, if you are researching a tummy tuck, liposuction, or similar body procedure.
• Similar facial structure or eye shape, if you are considering a facelift or eyelid surgery.
• Similar breast size and shape for a breast lift, augmentation, or reduction.

Be careful about jumping to the after photos right away. You may focus on patients who have different bodies or faces than you, which could lead to unrealistic expectations.

Pay Attention to Details

Once you’ve found patients who have results you’re trying to achieve, examine the photos closely. Instead of just noting which photos you like, try to spell out exactly what appeals to you about the photos, such as:

• Symmetry
• Scar placement
• Natural-looking results
• Specific shapes or contours

Take notes so that you can explain to your plastic surgeon precisely what you are looking for from your procedure. Also be aware that adjustments to lighting, makeup, or positioning can impact how you perceive the results. Ideally, a before-and-after photo should use the same photo angle and lighting.

Note What You Don’t Like

After you’ve found photos that match your goals, you can take a broader perspective. Look at all of the photos from similar operations and take note of results that you don’t find aesthetically pleasing.

If you think that results are too exaggerated, not dramatic enough, or just unsatisfying for any reason, write down these comments along with the photos. You can bring these notes with you to your initial consultation and go over the photos with your plastic surgeon.

You can discuss your favorite before-and-after photos with Dr. Gupta during your free initial consultation. Call (858) 621-6000 to schedule your appointment at our San Diego plastic surgery office.

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