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Rahmani B, Escobar-Domingo MJ, Park JB, Foppiani JA, Lee D, Mahmoud AA, Lin SJ, Lee BT. Navigating Aesthetic Pursuits: A Google Trends Insight into Cosmetic Tourism. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2024:10.1007/s00266-024-04108-9. [PMID: 38858244 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-024-04108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The popularity of cosmetic tourism may increase unnecessary risks for patients as postoperative care is variable. However, little is known about the current trends and public perception of this growing phenomenon. This study compares interest in cosmetic tourism in popular medical tourism destinations relative to the US. METHODS Google Trends was queried from October 2017 to September 2023, examining trends over the full period and dissecting changes between 2017-2020 and 2020-2023. Search volume data were retrieved for the top international countries and the US for each of the top five cosmetic procedures, according to the ISAPS 2022 Global Survey. A p value < 0.05 was used for statistical significance. RESULTS Searches for liposuction, blepharoplasty, breast augmentation, mastopexy, and abdominoplasty were compared between the US, Mexico, Turkey, Thailand, and Colombia. Google Trends data mirrored the prevalence of the two most common procedures, liposuction, and breast augmentation. Differences in interest regarding liposuction were greatest in Mexico, Thailand, and Turkey compared to the US (p < 0.05). Medical tourism for blepharoplasty had the highest search interest scores for Turkey and Thailand from 2017 to 2023 (p < 0.05). Significant differences were also consistent across all time intervals for breast augmentation, mastopexy, and abdominoplasty, with higher interest in Mexico and Turkey (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Google Trends analysis serves as an insightful tool for understanding cosmetic tourism. Changing trends bring the potential to assess worldwide versus country-specific procedure interest. These observed trends may foreshadow future international aesthetic procedure trends. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Rahmani
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Maria J Escobar-Domingo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - John B Park
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jose A Foppiani
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Daniela Lee
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Amir-Ala Mahmoud
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Samuel J Lin
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Bernard T Lee
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis St, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Kaleeny J, Levine E, Okamoto L, McGee SA, Janis JE. Blepharoplasty Online: Critical Analysis of Content and Patient Comprehensibility. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2024:10.1007/s00266-024-04083-1. [PMID: 38789805 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-024-04083-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients frequently turn to online information for decision-making factors about aesthetic procedures. The quality of online medical content is an essential supplement to clinical education. These resources assist patients in understanding the risks, benefits, and appropriateness of their desired procedure. This study examines the breadth and readability of online blepharoplasty information, elucidating its educational utility. METHODS A depersonalized Google search was conducted using the Startpage Search Engine, investigating key phrases, "blepharoplasty decision making factors", "eye lift decision making factors", and "eyelid lift decision making factors". The first three pages of results for each search term, totaling 90 links were screened. Data were extracted for various decision-making factors, subspecialty, gender, and readability. RESULTS Twenty-six websites met inclusion for analysis. Thirteen websites were plastic surgery based, five otolaryngology (ENT), five ophthalmology/oculoplastic, one oral-maxillofacial (OMFS), and two mixed-based practices. Most blepharoplasty webpages identified were that of private practice and male surgeons. Half were subspecialties other than plastic surgery. Thirteen common decision-making factors were identified. The most common factors addressed across all texts were recovery followed by cosmetic and functional goals. The least discussed were genetic factors. Average Readability exceeded the 12th grade. There were no significant differences in readability means among subspecialties. CONCLUSION This study examines the online blepharoplasty sphere among US-based practices providing clinical education to patients. No appreciable differences among gender, subspecialty, and readability on decision-making factors were found, highlighting a consistency among surgeons. Most websites fell short of readability standards, however, emphasizing a need for clearer information to patients. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kaleeny
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 915 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Emma Levine
- Section of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Lauren Okamoto
- Department of Surgery, Robert Larner, MD, College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Shayan A McGee
- Department of Surgery, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Janis
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 915 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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Pyon RE, Sayadi LR, Pakvasa M, Vyas RM, Wang ED. Plastic Surgery or Facial Plastic Surgery: Can the Public Tell the Difference? PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5679. [PMID: 38948157 PMCID: PMC11213615 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Social media and online advertising are increasingly used by plastic surgeons (PSs) to educate patients and obtain referrals, but it remains unclear whether the general public can distinguish the difference in training and accreditation among medical professionals advertising online. Our study elucidates the public's expectations regarding the distinction between plastic surgery and facial plastic surgery. Methods A survey was distributed via MTurk, an Amazon surveying service, to collect information about demographics and assumptions that would be made solely based on the terminology "facial PS" (FPS) and "PS." Participants were restricted to those residing in the United States. Results A total of 253 responses were collected. Based on the term FPS, respondents on average moderately to strongly agreed that they would expect an FPS to have completed a plastic and reconstructive surgery residency program (mean = 1.81; scale from 1= strongly agree to 5= strongly disagree) and would feel moderately to strongly misled if they visited an FPS for a consultation and later learned that the provider did not complete a plastic and reconstructive surgery residency (mean = 3.62; scale from 1 = not misled at all to 5 = extremely misled). Conclusions Despite increasing advocacy by professional societies and the member societies of the American Board of Medical Specialties, this study demonstrated that the lay public is unaware of factually different training and certification pathways given similarity in nomenclature. This study was notably not designed to draw conclusions or imply superiority of one specialty, certifying board, or training model over the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Pyon
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif
| | - Lohrasb R. Sayadi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, Calif
| | - Mikhail Pakvasa
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, Calif
| | - Raj M. Vyas
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, Calif
| | - Eric D. Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, Calif
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Pisano SM, Ochoa O, Gassman AA, Ledoux PR, Nastala CL, Whipple LA, Arishita GI, Chrysopoulo MT. How to Start and Build a Practice in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction: Success and Sustainability in a Private Practice Setting. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5267. [PMID: 38317655 PMCID: PMC10843592 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to provide a template for building and sustaining a microsurgical breast reconstruction practice in a private practice setting. The target audience including residents, microsurgical fellows, and reconstructive microsurgeons were currently employed in an academic setting, and reconstructive microsurgeons were currently employed in a private group entity. We present five pillars that initiate, support, and sustain a successful practice in microsurgical breast reconstruction. The five key concepts are (1) establishing a practice vision and culture, (2) obtaining funding, (3) assembling staff, (4) negotiating insurance and other contracts, and (5) striving for efficiency and sustainability. These concepts have been at the core of Plastic, Reconstructive and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas-a private practice eight-physician group based in San Antonio, Tex.-since its inception. However, these concepts have evolved as the practice has grown and as the economic landscape has changed for reconstructive microsurgeons. In the article, we will present what we have done well, what we could have done better, and some pitfalls to avoid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Pisano
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Oscar Ochoa
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Andrew A Gassman
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Peter R Ledoux
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Chet L Nastala
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Lauren A Whipple
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Gary I Arishita
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Minas T Chrysopoulo
- From the Plastic, Reconstructive, and Microsurgical Associates of South Texas, San Antonio, Tex
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Zhong Y, Li B, Ma H, Yang B. How Does Social Media Correlate With Clinical Appointments: A Quantitative Analysis. J Craniofac Surg 2024; 35:125-128. [PMID: 37955442 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000009843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Social media has become an important part of plastic surgeons' practices. Is it true that the more followers, the more efficient it is to the plastic surgeon's branding? This study is to verify the quantitative correlation between social media and clinical appointments and to optimize its utilization. One hundred and five plastic surgeons were divided into 3 groups according to titles. WEIBO served as a targeted platform and descriptive data, including numbers of followers and clinic appointments were collected for analysis. The promotive effect was quantified as and correlation analysis was conducted to quantify the relationship between followers and outpatient appointments. From this research, it was found that 62% of participants were social media users, while 38% were not. No statistical significance was found between them by comparing the number of clinic appointments. For surgeons with social media, a positive correlation was proven between followers and clinic appointments, whose Pearson's correlation was 0.266 (attending: 0.557, associate consultant: 0.315, consultant: 0.060). Meanwhile, the conversion rates in this study were 22.49±44.67% (attending), 13.10±24.57% (associate consultant), and 18.88±36.05% (consultant). Outpatient consultations of senior surgeons without social media (2652±14492) were significantly higher than young surgeons with social media (1800±1718, P <0.05). The regression equation was Clinical Appointments=ln (Followers)×316.906-992.588 ( R2 =0.270, P =0.023). In conclusion, this study proved that social media positively influenced clinic appointments but the traditional personal brandings like reputations, academic pedigree, and word of mouth still played an indispensable role in career development. Young surgeons benefited most from social media. The promotive effect of social media would reach its saturation when the followers were up to ∼50,000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehong Zhong
- Department of Craniomaxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College
| | - Binghang Li
- Digital Technology Center, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hengyuan Ma
- Digital Technology Center, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Craniomaxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College
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Schmuter G, North VS, Kazim M, Tran AQ. Medical Accuracy of Patient Discussions in Oculoplastic Surgery on Social Media. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 39:132-135. [PMID: 35943417 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000002257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to characterize major topics of discussion in oculoplastic surgery on a social media forum and to evaluate the medical accuracy of the content discussed on these platforms. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis of oculoplastics key search terms was performed on 2 active forums (r/PlasticSurgery and r/CosmeticSurgery) on Reddit. The content analysis involved the top posts in Reddit's history from 2008 to 2022. Medical accuracy was determined by actively practicing, board-certified, and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeons. RESULTS The most common topics of patient discussions involved inquiring for advice regarding a procedure (44%) and sharing before-and-after photos (34%). The most common topics of patient discussions included providing support, encouragement, or sympathy for a patient (80%) and the cost of a procedure (62%). Misunderstanding of the medical pathophysiology of the patient's condition was seen in 68% of discussions on this social media platform. Medically inaccurate information was seen in 31% of all analyzed statements. When the type of physician performing a given procedure was disclosed, half reported an oculoplastic surgeon performed the surgery. CONCLUSIONS The social media platform, Reddit, is a popular source of advice and information for current and prospective oculoplastic surgery patients. Such social media forums should be used as a sort of psychosocial and psychological support rather than as a primary source of medical information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Schmuter
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Ophthalmology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Victoria S North
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Michael Kazim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Ann Q Tran
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Chicago, Illinois
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Content and Readability of Online Recommendations for Breast Implant Size Selection. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 2023; 11:e4787. [PMID: 36699215 PMCID: PMC9872969 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000004787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Breast augmentation is one of the most frequently performed aesthetic procedures in the United States. Online information is often used by patients to make decisions when undergoing cosmetic procedures. It is vital that online medical information includes relevant decision-making factors and uses language that is understandable to broad patient audiences. Ideally, online resources should aid patient decisions in aesthetic surgical planning, especially implant size selection for breast augmentation. We describe patient decision-making factors and readability of breast implant size selection recommended by private practice plastic surgery webpages. Methods Using a depersonalized, anonymous query to Google search engine, the terms "breast implant size factors" and "breast implant size decision" were searched, and 52 plastic surgery private practice webpages were identified. Webpages were analyzed for reported decision-making factors of implant size selection. Readability analyses of webpages were performed with Readability Studio and Hemingway Editor. Results The two major decision-making factors for implant size selection reported by webpages were body/tissue-based measurements and surgeon input. Ten factors related to patient lifestyle, surgical goals, and procedural options were also identified. Average webpage scores for five readability measures exceeded recommended levels for medical information. Conclusions Reported decision-making factors for implant size selection emphasize a plastic surgeon's expertise but may enhance the patient's role in preoperative planning. Webpages describing breast implant size selection exceed the sixth and eighth grade reading levels recommended by the AMA and NIH, respectively. Improving the readability of webpages will refine the role of online medical information in preoperative planning of breast augmentation.
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McCormick JR, Kerzner B, Tuthill TA, Khan ZA, Hodakowski AJ, Damodar D, Fortier LM, Dasari SP, Nho SJ, Chahla J. Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement Obtain Information From Low-Quality Sources Online and Are Most Interested in Conservative Treatment and Expected Recovery. Arthrosc Sports Med Rehabil 2022; 5:e21-e27. [PMID: 36866316 PMCID: PMC9971908 DOI: 10.1016/j.asmr.2022.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the type of questions patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) are searching online and determine the type and quality of the online sources from the top results to each query by the "people also ask" Google algorithm. Methods Three search strings pertaining to FAI were carried out through Google. The webpage information was manually collected from the "People also ask" Google algorithm. Questions were categorized using Rothwell's classification method. Each website was assessed using Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark Criteria for source quality. Results A total of 286 unique questions were collected with their associated webpages. The most common questions included: "How do you treat femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears without surgery?" "What is the recovery process after hip arthroscopy and are there limitations after surgery?" and "How do you diagnose hip impingement and differentiate from other causes of hip pain?" The Rothwell Classification of questions were fact (43.4%), policy (34.3%), and value (20.6%). The most common webpage categories were Medical Practice (30.4%), Academic (25.8%), and Commercial (20.6%). The most common subcategories were Indications/Management (29.7%) and Pain (13.6%). Government websites had the highest average Journal of the American Medical Association score (3.42), whereas Single Surgeon Practice websites had the lowest (1.35). Conclusions: Commonly asked questions on Google regarding FAI and labral tears pertain to the indications and management of pathology as well as pain control and restrictions in activity. The majority of information is provided by medical practice, academic, and commercial sources, which have highly variable academic transparency. Clinical Relevance By better understanding which questions patients ask online, surgeons can personalize patient education and enhance patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes after hip arthroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathon R. McCormick
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Benjamin Kerzner
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Trevor A. Tuthill
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Zeeshan A. Khan
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Alexander J. Hodakowski
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Dhanur Damodar
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Luc M. Fortier
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Suhas P. Dasari
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Shane J. Nho
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Jorge Chahla
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
- Address correspondence to Jorge Chahla, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, 1611 W Harrison St., Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60612.
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Warden AM, Mackenzie EL, Larson JD, Afifi AM. Optimize Your First Impression: A Comparison of the Aesthetic Websites of Private Practices and Academic Institutions. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2022; 46:2573-2579. [PMID: 35545704 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-022-02900-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An aesthetic surgery offering within academic programs has positive financial and educational implications. To compete with private practices, academic institutions must view their website as integral to patient recruitment. OBJECTIVE This study examines the aesthetic surgery websites of academic and private practices to compare objective website characteristics. METHODS Integrated plastic surgery programs with an aesthetic surgery website were matched with nearby private practices offering cosmetic surgery. Data was collected from websites, including information about procedures, media, surgeon characteristics, design, reputation, finances, and readability, and compared using Chi-square and T tests. RESULTS The websites of 68 academic institutions (AP) and 68 location-matched private practices (PP) were examined. Fourteen (17.07%) programs did not have a website. Private practice websites provided information about a greater number of procedures (mean AP 21.82, PP 27.04, p = 0.013), preparation for surgery (AP 52.94%, PP 83.82%, p < 0.001), and expectations after surgery (AP 70.59%, PP 88.24%, p = 0.01). Board certification was listed more frequently for private practices (AP 87%, PP 98%, p = 0.01). Academic websites were more likely to discuss research (AP 76%, PP 57.35%, p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the readability of AP and PP websites (mean SMOG AP 7.70, PP 7.19, p = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS This work demonstrates a significant content gap between private and academic aesthetic websites and serves as an action item for institutions to enhance their online presence. In a field traditionally associated with high overhead costs, website modifications represent a cost-effective way for academic practices to increase their appeal in the cosmetic surgery market. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Lee PB, Miano DI, Sesselmann M, Johnson J, Chung MT, Abboud M, Johnson AP, Zuliani GF. RealSelf Social Media Analysis of Rhinoplasty Patient Reviews. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2022; 75:2368-2374. [PMID: 35367160 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.02.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media has become increasingly important for patients when deciding whether they should undergo rhinoplasty. The purpose of this study is to analyze patient satisfaction of rhinoplasty procedures through RealSelf social media reviews. METHODS We collected data from 583 rhinoplasty reviews published on the RealSelf portal. In posts dated between 2016 and 2020, we included those which were labeled as "Worth It" and "Not Worth It." Posts that were labeled as "Unsure" or were left unlabeled were excluded from the study. In addition, posts not including the cost of their rhinoplasty were excluded. Taking into account patient demographics and cost of the procedure, we analyzed reasons for choosing to undergo surgery, reasons for choosing surgeons, and reasons for liking or disliking their procedure. RESULTS Of the 583 reviews analyzed, most (45.4%) were categorized from the 18-24 years age group and there was an overall 93.8% satisfaction rate. While there was no statistically significant difference in the cost of rhinoplasty surgeries between "Worth It" and "Not Worth It" groups, the average cost of recorded rhinoplasties was US$ 8043 with a standard deviation ± $3296. According to our analysis, younger patients aged 18-24 years relied more on social media to choose their surgeons and desired a more natural appearance to their nose while older ones preferred compatible physician personalities and increased self-esteem for rhinoplasty. CONCLUSION This study offers a unique perspective into the distinguishing characteristics of different age groups and the values they place in pursuing rhinoplasty, choosing their surgeons, and why they like/dislike their surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul B Lee
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, USA.
| | | | - Madeline Sesselmann
- Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jared Johnson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Michael T Chung
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Michel Abboud
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Andrew P Johnson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Giancarlo F Zuliani
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Zuliani Facial Aesthetics, Bloomfield Hills, MI, USA
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11
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Alshaalan HS, AlTamimi LA, Alshayie RA, Alsuhaibani AH. The impact of social media accounts on periocular cosmetic surgeries. Saudi J Ophthalmol 2021; 35:251-256. [PMID: 35601847 PMCID: PMC9116105 DOI: 10.4103/sjopt.sjopt_14_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aims to assess the impact of social media on patients who underwent periocular cosmetic surgeries during 2019 and to determine the appropriate platforms to enrich the knowledge and awareness of the general Saudi population regarding periocular cosmetic surgeries. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ibn Rushd Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Three hundred and ninety-five participants with periocular cosmetic surgeries in 2019 were recruited for the study. The questionnaire included 43 questions distributed under four domains: demographics, personal and family history of periocular eye surgeries, influence of social media on cosmetic eye procedures, and psychological effects of social media. RESULTS Periocular cosmetic surgeries were more common among women, with eyelid surgery being the most popular type. About 48.9% of the participants knew their oculoplastic surgeons from social media platforms, and over 57% who used accounts on social media were interested in cosmetology managed by nonphysicians. The majority of the participants (64.1%) chose Instagram as a social media platform to find an oculoplastic surgeon. Consequently, 91.6% stated that seeing before and after photos on social media platforms affected their decision in selecting their oculoplastic surgeon. Besides, 82.8% revealed that visiting surgeons' clinic came as a step next to their search for their accounts on social media. CONCLUSION The majority of the participants were, somewhat or another, affected by social media and this is due to people's belief regarding social media as a beneficial source of medical information that can provide reviews and expert opinion. The accuracy of the information presented in social media accounts managed by both physicians and nonphysicians is essential in making the appropriate decision for undergoing this kind of surgeries or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayfaa S. Alshaalan
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lama A. AlTamimi
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reema A. Alshayie
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel H. Alsuhaibani
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Prof. Adel H. Alsuhaibani, Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, PO Box 245, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia. E-mail:
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12
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Henderson JT, Mullens CL, Woodberry KM. US Public's Perceptions of Online Transformation Photos. Aesthet Surg J 2021; 41:1483-1491. [PMID: 33848328 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjab189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many plastic surgeons seek to optimize their online presence and reach a broader patient base, no studies to our knowledge have evaluated the general public's perceptions of one of the most valued informational tools: transformation photos. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the general public's preferences for viewing transformation photos online. METHODS Respondents representative of the US public, crowdsourced through Amazon Mechanical Turk, answered a survey assessing perceptions of the posting of before-and-after photos. RESULTS One thousand respondents completed the questionnaire. Ninety percent (905/1000) of respondents are willing to view online before-and-after photos. Sixty-three percent (634/1000) would consent to online posting of before-and-after photos of at least 1 body area, with comfort levels highest for facelift (36.4%), nonoperative facial rejuvenation (31.9%), liposuction (24.9%), and abdominoplasty (23.2%). Breast reduction (12.4%), breast reconstruction (10.9%), gluteal augmentation (14.0%), and vaginal rejuvenation (4.4%) are considered least acceptable for public posting. Respondents are significantly more opposed to online viewing of genitals than any other body area (P < 0.0001). Of those willing to have their own transformation photos posted online, 74.0% would allow posting on professional practice websites, 35.1% on Instagram, 26.6% on Facebook, 17.2% on Twitter, and 10.7% on Snapchat. Significantly more respondents prefer their transformation photos reside only on professional practice websites rather than on a social media platform (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The public considers aesthetic facial procedures and body contouring most acceptable for showcasing transformation photos online. Although most respondents prefer viewing these photos on professional practice websites, Instagram is the favored social media platform. The majority of the public seek transformation photos when choosing a plastic surgeon for a cosmetic procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Henderson
- Division of Plastic Surgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Cody L Mullens
- West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kerri M Woodberry
- Division of Plastic Surgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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13
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Braun SE, O’Connor MK, Hornick MM, Cullom ME, Butterworth JA. Global Trends in Plastic Surgery on Social Media: Analysis of 2 Million Posts. Aesthet Surg J 2021; 41:1323-1332. [PMID: 33855334 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjab185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plastic surgeons and patients increasingly use social media. Despite evidence implicating its importance in plastic surgery, the large volume of data has made social media difficult to study. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive assessment of plastic surgery social media content worldwide by utilizing techniques for analyzing large-scale data. METHODS The hashtag "#PlasticSurgery" was used to search public Instagram posts. Metadata were collected from posts between December 2018 and August 2020. In addition to descriptive analysis, 2 instruments were created to characterize textual data: a multilingual dictionary of procedural hashtags and a rule-based text classification model to categorize the source of the post. RESULTS Plastic surgery content yielded more than 2 million posts, 369 million likes, and 6 billion views globally over the 21-month study. The United States had the most posts of 182 countries studied (26.8%, 566,206). Various other regions had substantial presence including Istanbul, Turkey, which led all cities (4.8%, 102,208). The classification model achieved high accuracy (94.9%) and strong agreement with independent raters (κ = 0.88). Providers accounted for 40% of all posts (847,356) and included the categories physician (28%), plastic surgery (9%), advanced practice practitioners and nurses (1.6%), facial plastics (1.3%), and oculoplastics (0.2%). Content between plastic surgery and non-plastic surgery groups demonstrated high textual similarity, and only 1.4% of posts had a verified source. CONCLUSIONS Plastic surgery content has immense global reach in social media. Textual similarity between groups coupled with the lack of an effective verification mechanism presents challenges in discerning the source and veracity of information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sterling E Braun
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | | | | | | | - James A Butterworth
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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14
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Nischwitz SP, Luze H, Rauch K, Lemelman BT, Heine-Geldern A, Rappl T, Gualdi A, Kamolz LP, Maldonado AA. Analysis of social media use by European plastic surgery societies: A missing link for #PlasticSurgery. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258120. [PMID: 34648527 PMCID: PMC8516210 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The field of Plastic Surgery is prominent on social media around the world. Board certified plastic surgeons and societies of plastic surgery play a role in providing accurate, evidence-based information to the public, patients, and colleagues. The aim of this study was to explore the use of social media by European Plastic Surgery Societies. METHODS AND MATERIALS A retrospective analysis of the presence and activity of European Plastic Surgery Societies on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram was conducted between December 12th 2018 and December 12th 2019. The results have been compared to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. RESULTS Twenty, eleven and nine European societies yielded an active account on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram respectively. Only seven European societies had an account on all three platforms and were therefore considered polypresent. The amount of followers of those seven societies was significantly higher than of the others (p-value = 0.02). Their activity yielded significantly more posts on Facebook (p-value = 0.02). The American Society of Plastic Surgeons had more followers on all three platforms than all European societies combined. CONCLUSION Social media are still rather unexploited by European Plastic Surgery Societies. A tendency towards increased visibility can be observed, yet a higher penetration is required to further educate and engage through social media. The quantitative data provided serve as reasonable foundation for further studies and a guide for growth of #PlasticSurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian P. Nischwitz
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED – Cooperative Centre for Regenerative Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Hanna Luze
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED – Cooperative Centre for Regenerative Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Benjamin T. Lemelman
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Albrecht Heine-Geldern
- Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, BG Trauma Center Frankfurt am Main, Academic Hospital of the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Rappl
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED – Cooperative Centre for Regenerative Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Lars-Peter Kamolz
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED – Cooperative Centre for Regenerative Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Andres A. Maldonado
- Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, BG Trauma Center Frankfurt am Main, Academic Hospital of the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Getafe, Madrid, Spain
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15
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The new dilemma of plastic surgery and social media: a systematic review. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00238-021-01891-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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16
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Cobo R, Adamson OOnt PA. Understanding and Getting Involved in the International Facial Plastic Surgery Community. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am 2021; 28:531-541. [PMID: 33010872 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsc.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article is intended to engage international facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons so they can maximally benefit from the increased connectivity fostered by the Internet. Facial plastic surgeons are encouraged to participate in the educational programs being developed by the International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies. Many international surgeons grapple with the issues surrounding the development or expansion of their own facial plastic and reconstructive surgery practices. The Strategy Circle and suggestions on how to acquire knowledge and surgical skills are discussed. Practical recommendations to assist in transitioning a practice to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Cobo
- Service of Otolaryngology, Centro Médico Imbanaco, Carrera 38A #5 A-100 cons. 222A, Cali 760042, Colombia.
| | - Peter A Adamson OOnt
- Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Renaissance Plaza, 150 Bloor Street West, Suite M110, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2X9, Canada
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17
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Atiyeh BS, Chahine F, Abou Ghanem O. Social Media and Plastic Surgery Practice Building: A Thin Line Between Efficient Marketing, Professionalism, and Ethics. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2021; 45:1310-1321. [PMID: 32964279 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-020-01961-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Social media sites and platforms have grown in numbers with an enormous potential to reach and disseminate information in real time. They are impacting tremendously for better or for worse on the current practice of plastic surgery. As the demand for elective plastic surgery, in particular for aesthetic procedures, continues to rise, there is a need to determine the influence of social media advertisements and how it motivates the public to undergo cosmetic procedures. Most importantly, there is an urgent need to determine how the social media are impacting plastic surgery practice building and what is proper and efficient marketing while upholding ethics of the medical profession? A thorough PICO tool-based comprehensive literature search was conducted. Fifty-one peer-reviewed publications, 15 patient-centered, 33 provider-centered, and three combined patient/provider were identified to be relevant to the use of social media in plastic surgery and were selected for this review. Evidence on how social media influences the medical practice and helps in practice building remains scarce; nevertheless, reliance of plastic surgeons on social media to improve their practice has been increasing steadily. Social media may be a powerful tool to promote one's career. It presents, however, serious professional, legal, and ethical challenges including maintenance of professionalism and protecting patient confidentiality. If misused, it may be a quick way to end a plastic surgery practice.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishara S Atiyeh
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Odette Abou Ghanem
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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18
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Tingley J, Allen RC, Barmettler A. #OculoplasticsandSocialMedia: a review of social media in oculoplastics and relevant subspecialties. Orbit 2021; 41:141-149. [PMID: 34044737 DOI: 10.1080/01676830.2021.1930064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The permeation of social media into life almost goes without bounds and medicine is no exception. While social media holds great potential for physicians and medicine, it also comes with concurrent spread of disinformation. This increases the importance of evidence-based information from qualified physicians on social media.Although the definition of social media is broad, in general, it refers to the use of web-based platforms to connect one human to another. In oculoplastic surgery, these relationships can be physician to physician, physician to patient, patient to patient, and vendor to physician. These relationships mostly involve education, social support, and advertising, but can also include research and government advocacy. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current utilization of social media in oculoplastic surgery and relevant subspecialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Tingley
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Richard C Allen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anne Barmettler
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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19
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Grossman R, Sgarbura O, Hallet J, Søreide K. Social media in surgery: evolving role in research communication and beyond. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2021; 406:505-520. [PMID: 33640992 PMCID: PMC7914121 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-021-02135-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To present social media (SoMe) platforms for surgeons, how these are used, with what impact, and their roles for research communication. METHODS A narrative review based on a literature search regarding social media use, of studies and findings pertaining to surgical disciplines, and the authors' own experience. RESULTS Several social networking platforms for surgeons are presented to the reader. The more frequently used, i.e., Twitter, is presented with details of opportunities, specific fora for communication, presenting tips for effective use, and also some caveats to use. Details of how the surgical community evolved through the use of the hashtag #SoMe4Surgery are presented. The impact on gender diversity in surgery through important hashtags (from #ILookLikeASurgeon to #MedBikini) is discussed. Practical tips on generating tweets and use of visual abstracts are presented, with influence on post-production distribution of journal articles through "tweetorials" and "tweetchats." Findings from seminal studies on SoMe and the impact on traditional metrics (regular citations) and alternative metrics (Altmetrics, including tweets, retweets, news outlet mentions) are presented. Some concerns on misuse and SoMe caveats are discussed. CONCLUSION Over the last two decades, social media has had a huge impact on science dissemination, journal article discussions, and presentation of conference news. Immediate and real-time presentation of studies, articles, or presentations has flattened hierarchy for participation, debate, and engagement. Surgeons should learn how to use novel communication technology to advance the field and further professional and public interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Grossman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Olivia Sgarbura
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, F-34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Julie Hallet
- Department of Surgery, Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kjetil Søreide
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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20
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Nguyen J, Thompson P, Losken A. Breast Reconstruction in the Social Media Age. Aesthet Surg J 2021; 41:200-205. [PMID: 32667966 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjaa204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The internet and social media are sources of information regarding breast reconstruction, which can educate and influence patients. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate internet and social media usage by breast reconstruction patients and its impact on patients. METHODS Eighty-six breast reconstruction patients over a 7-month period answered an anonymous survey, which queried demographics, reconstruction type, internet usage, social media usage, expectations, and impact on decisions. Fisher's exact test was performed to evaluate the use of social media. RESULTS Overall, 95% of patients used the internet for breast reconstruction information. The information was found to be easy to understand by 70% of patients, helpful by 76%, and trustworthy by 60%. The information influenced decisions regarding procedure by 23% of patients, regarding surgeon by 23%, and regarding hospital by 22%. Social media was used by 71% of the patients; 62% of patients found it easy to understand, 57% found it helpful, and 48% found it trustworthy. The information influenced decisions regarding procedure by 16% of patients, regarding surgeon by 11%, and regarding hospital by 10%. Twenty-six percent of women expected their final breast reconstruction to look better than their premastectomy breasts, 55% as good or similar, and 12% reported appearance to be unimportant. Women found social media information to be less helpful than internet information. There was no significant association between expectations and social media vs no social media usage. CONCLUSIONS Patients who undergo breast reconstruction use the internet and social media as sources of information. Although the information is generally trusted, it does not seem to heavily influence patient decision-making. Providers remain patients' main source of information, and need to direct patients to high-quality and accessible resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Nguyen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Peter Thompson
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Albert Losken
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
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21
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Montemurro P, Tay VKS, Hedén P. The Evolution of Patients' and Surgeons' Perspectives Towards the Role of the Internet and Social Media in Breast Augmentation Over 5 Years. Aesthet Surg J 2021; 41:262-268. [PMID: 32246151 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjaa087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of the internet and social media (SoMe) in the decision-making of patients is recognized. Plastic surgeons are aware of this trend but are entangled between ethics, professionalism, and business acumen. OBJECTIVES In this study, the authors presented the evolution of perspectives of patients and surgeons recruited through a private clinic over 5 years. METHODS A questionnaire was administered to patients consulting for primary breast augmentation in 2014, 2017, and 2019. Plastic surgeons who worked at or visited the Akademikliniken in 2014, 2017, and 2019 completed a separate questionnaire. RESULTS In total, 1646 patient responses were collected. Patients who started their information gathering with the internet increased from 68.0% to 72.9%, and 94.1% of patients looked for information about aesthetic surgery on the internet before their consultation. Patients who read about aesthetic surgery on SoMe increased 29.1%. Of 462 surgeons recruited, 62% opined that the majority of patients had gathered information online before consultation. Fewer surgeons in 2019 thought that the internet and SoMe led to better information (down from 61.7% to 35.2%). An increase from 38.3% to 65.3% of surgeons attributed it to unrealistic expectations. However, only 9.7% of surgeons would support removal of plastic surgery material from SoMe compared with 21.9% in 2014. CONCLUSIONS The increased utilization and influence of the internet and SoMe on patients and surgeons is rapid. Aesthetic plastic surgeons must equip themselves to cope with the risks and capitalize on the opportunity for patient engagement and public education.
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22
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#PlasticSurgery: A Comparative Deep Dive Analysis into Social Media and Plastic Surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg 2020; 146:413-422. [DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000007001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Bifurcation of Patient Reviews: An Analysis of Trends in Online Ratings. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2020; 8:e2781. [PMID: 32440443 PMCID: PMC7209897 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000002781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Online reviews have become increasingly important drivers of healthcare decisions. Data published by the Pew Research Center from 2016 suggest that 84% of adult Americans use online rating sites to search for information about health issues. The authors sought to analyze physician reviews collected from a large online consumer rating site to better understand characteristics that are associated with positive and negative review behavior. Methods Published patient reviews from RealSelf were sampled over a 12-year period (June 2006 to August 2018). SQL, Python, and Python SciPy were used for statistical analysis on 156,965 reviews of 10,376 unique physicians. Python VADER was used to quantify consumer sentiment with review text as input. Results Surgical procedures tended to be higher rated than nonsurgical treatments. The highest-rated procedures were breast augmentation, rejuvenation of the female genitalia, and facelift. The lowest-rated surgical procedures were buttock augmentation, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery. The mean physician rating was 4.6, with 87% of reviews being 5-star and 5% being 1-star. Sentiment analysis revealed positive consumer sentiment in 5-star reviews and negative sentiment in 1-star reviews. Conclusions These findings suggest that online reviews of doctors are polarized by extreme ratings. Within the surgical category, significant differences in ratings exist between treatments. Perceived problems with postprocedural care are most associated with negative reviews, whereas satisfaction with a physician's answers to patient questions is most associated with positive reviews. Polarization of physician reviews may suggest selection bias in reviewer participation.
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Gupta N, Dorfman R, Saadat S, Roostaeian J. The Plastic Surgery Social Media Influencer: Ethical Considerations and a Literature Review. Aesthet Surg J 2020; 40:691-699. [PMID: 31738821 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjz329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media use has become a relevant tool in plastic surgery. These platforms are utilized for many reasons, such as business promotion. Although beneficial, social media can cause ethical dilemmas if used incorrectly. OBJECTIVES A review of the literature revealed what is understood about the implications of social media in regards to sponsorship/promotion. This paper aimed to create the foundation surrounding this topic and help facilitate future discussions on this new ethical dilemma. METHODS A MEDLINE search with a custom publication date range and a review of the literature was conducted on June 15, 2019. RESULTS The search yielded 139 articles and abstracts. After review, 26 publications were chosen for analysis. Articles were taken from the following journals: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (n = 12), Aesthetic Surgery Journal (n = 8), PRS Global Open (n = 2), Annals of Plastic Surgery (n = 1), BMJ (n = 1), AMA Journal of Ethics (n = 1), and Facial Plastic Surgery (n = 1). The 4 principles of medical ethics were analyzed in respect to promotion and sponsorship in plastic surgery. CONCLUSIONS Social media is a novel platform that is becoming increasingly utilized in plastic surgery. Although its impact can be beneficial, it is not well understood in the context of social media sponsorship and promotion. To date, no peer-reviewed articles specifically discuss these limitations. It is critical that all plastic surgeons be cognizant of both the positive and negative aspects of social media before integrating it into their professional lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Gupta
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Robert Dorfman
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Sean Saadat
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jason Roostaeian
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
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25
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Building Your Brand: Analysis of Successful Oculoplastic Surgeons on Social Media. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2020; 36:582-589. [DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000001654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Honeybrook A, Arnold M, Locketz G, Friedman O, Becker D, Bloom J. Rhytidectomy: A Realself Social Media Analysis. Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med 2020; 22:207-212. [PMID: 32228313 DOI: 10.1089/fpsam.2020.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance: Social media has become a mainstream method of allowing patients to report and rate their satisfaction with cosmetic procedures and providers. To date, very few studies have published patient-reported satisfaction with the rhytidectomy procedure. Objective: We sought to perform a social media analysis of the rhytidectomy procedure. Design, Setting, and Participants: Data were extracted from 1876 consecutive rhytidectomy online reviews completed by individuals on "facelift" from the RealSelf website, from April 2017 to June 2019. Patients who did not undergo the procedure were excluded. Main Outcomes and Measures: Reasons for pursuing surgery, choosing a surgeon, and liking the surgical outcome were identified. Surgical and demographic variables, cost, and overall "Worth It" scores were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Valid frequencies and percentages are presented excluding missing data. Results: Of the data that could be extracted from 1876 RealSelf reviews, the majority of reviewers were female (88.3%), aged between 60 and 69 years (40.1%). Predominant reasons reviewers chose their surgeons related to favorable surgeon personality/demeanor (20.0%) and establishing a positive rapport with the surgeon during the consultation who was able to answer the patients' questions. In total, 85.0% (1045) of reviewers felt surgery was "Worth It," whereas 0.7% (8) were undecided and 14.4% (177) felt it was not worth it. The aggregate "Worth It Rating" of rhytidectomy, using RealSelf's methodology (i.e., not including unsure responses) was 96.9. The main reasons those who liked their surgical outcome related to reviewers looking younger and "fresher" (31.1%), natural or "not fake" (18.4%), and developing positive emotional responses including feeling more confident and happier (18.2%). Of those who did not feel the surgery was "Worth It," postoperative scarring, short-lasting results, and ineffective and/or poor results were common reasons why reviewers did not like their outcome. Conclusions and Relevance: The overall satisfaction with rhytidectomy surgery was high within this cohort, which is in keeping with satisfaction rates reported in the literature. Many patients chose their surgeon based on favorable personality traits and emotional connections rather than other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Honeybrook
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Monique Arnold
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Garrett Locketz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Oren Friedman
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel Becker
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Becker ENT Center, Sewell, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jason Bloom
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Main Line Center for Laser Surgery, Ardmore, Pennsylvania, USA
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