In July’s Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), patients who are seeking plastic surgery for the first time have been affected by the reality shows on TV.
The study included 42 plastic surgery patients, who were questioned about whether or not they watched reality TV shows, and how it might have influenced them. 57% of the patients tested reported that they regularly watched at least one ongoing reality TV series. According to these patients, these TV shows made them feel more knowledgeable, and therefore more comfortable, about plastic surgery.
Some of the shows that were included in this study were MTV’s I Want a Famous Face, ABC’s Extreme Makeover, TLC’s Plastic Surgery: Before and After, FOX’s The Swan, E!’s Dr. 90210, and Bravo’s Miami Slice.
While this might seem like great success for the plastic surgery industry, some plastic surgeons are quailing a little over the results.
“It is unfortunate that patients are turning toward the entertainment industry for educational information – we had hoped for different results,” said Dr. John Persing, ASPS Member Surgeon and study co-author. “These shows may create unrealistic, unhealthy expectations about what plastic surgery can do for you. Although it’s called reality TV, it may not be reality.”
When considering cosmetic surgery, it is important to choose your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that they are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and make the most out of your initial consultation.
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