Artificial intelligence in plastic surgery: current developments and future perspectives

Abstract

Driven by the rapid development of big data, the amount of clinical data, including complex information, is expanding. Traditional data analysis methods cannot meet the need for mining data information, and artificial intelligence (AI) solves this problem. AI is increasingly being incorporated into modern medical practice. Algorithms provided by AI support advanced analysis and provide individualized aid to optimize medical decision-making. In plastic surgery, AI has made many breakthroughs in diagnosis, pre-operative surgical design, treatment decisions, and patient management. Plastic surgeons must recognize AI’s potential development and limitations. This review describes the current application of AI in plastic surgery and discusses the challenges and problems that need to be solved. This study aims to foster the application of this new AI technology in clinical practice.

Using Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools in Cosmetic Surgery: A Study on Rhinoplasty, Facelifts, and Blepharoplasty Procedures

“…Imagine a patient's ability to see, beforehand, an AI-projected image of their postoperative outcome. Such visual aids are not merely illustrative; they play a vital role in setting and managing expectations, offering patients tangible insight into potential outcomes [11,25,26]. By facilitating clearer visual comprehension, AI empowers patients to make more informed decisions regarding their procedures [25,27].…”

“…By facilitating clearer visual comprehension, AI empowers patients to make more informed decisions regarding their procedures [25,27]. Additionally, the technology can cater to individual concerns, illustrating everything from the nuances of facial symmetry post-rhinoplasty to the trajectory of scar healing [26]. The inherent advantage here is twofold: not only do patients gain a clearer perspective, but this clarity also alleviates potential anxieties.…”

Artificial Intelligence in Plastic Surgery: Insights from Plastic Surgeons, Education Integration, ChatGPT’s Survey Predictions, and the Path Forward

“…8 In the domain of aesthetics, AI-driven simulations allow patients and surgeons to visualize and plan procedures, enhancing the consultation process and ensuring realistic expectations. [9][10][11] In 1950, the visionary Alan Turing posed the fundamental question: "Can machines think?" 12 Today, we stand on the precipice of a different inquiry within the field of plastic surgery: can machines operate?…”

“… 8 In the domain of aesthetics, AI-driven simulations allow patients and surgeons to visualize and plan procedures, enhancing the consultation process and ensuring realistic expectations. 9 – 11 In 1950, the visionary Alan Turing posed the fundamental question: “Can machines think?” 12 Today, we stand on the precipice of a different inquiry within the field of plastic surgery: can machines operate? It is a question that compels us to examine the extent to which AI has penetrated the field of plastic surgery and the awareness among plastic surgeons regarding the impending revolution it promises to bring.…”

A Call for Guidelines and Regulatory Body in Adopting Artificial Intelligence for Plastic Surgeons

“…However, the integration of AI into plastic surgery presents challenges; foremost, the ethical implications of AI implementation need careful evaluation, prioritizing transparency, fairness, accountability, and privacy. 4 Guidelines are essential to prevent biases, maintain patient confidentiality, and uphold informed consent principles. Recently, a majority of AI leaders have recognized the importance of establishing a regulatory body for AI.…”