Plastic Surgery-Related Hashtag Utilization on Instagram: Implications for Education and Marketing

Abstract

ASAPS eligible board-certified plastic surgeons are underrepresented amongst physicians posting top plastic surgery-related content to Instagram.

Evolving role of Instagram in #medicine

“…However, patients are no longer passive receivers of information and are taking increasingly active roles in management decision . Technologically savvy patients will consult online resources including social media platforms to obtain information about their symptoms, diagnosis or treatment . Instagram lends itself to patient education, particularly for the visual disciplines.…”

“…As we progress into a more technologically advanced world, patients are increasingly seeking out information about their treating doctors . Hosting a social media page gives doctors the power to control and manage the information that patients access.…”

“…Being proactive online and making regular Instagram posts or stories. Preparing a disclaimer for followers with serious medical concerns and what steps can be taken in order should they wish to seek further medical attention Preparing a legally robust consent form for the use of clinical images and patient information before any clinical information is published online …”

“…5 Technologically savvy patients will consult online resources including social media platforms to obtain information about their symptoms, diagnosis or treatment. 6 Instagram lends itself to patient education, particularly for the visual disciplines. Patients can review other cases of their disease, see before and after photos of treatments and form support groups.…”

“…As we progress into a more technologically advanced world, patients are increasingly seeking out information about their treating doctors. 5,6 Hosting a social media page gives doctors the power to control and manage the information that patients access. Biographic detail as well as practical information like areas of expertise, procedures and services offered, contact details and opening hours can be easily provided, particularly for physicians with minimal experience in website design.…”