🔍For many patients, before and after photos are an important part of the decision-making process. They’re great for understanding what can be achieved from aesthetic procedures, and whether a treatment is right for you.
 
🔍But, how do you know if you can trust what you see?
When viewing before and after photos on social media or on a provider’s website, it’s important to do so with an informed eye. Here are a few key things to look out for:
 
🔍Filters or retouching: Skin should have pores, hair, and imperfections. If these are missing, it’s likely a filter has been used. Retouched photos are even harder to spot. Look out for telltale blurring and edges or boundaries that look too smooth.
 
🔍Angles: Head positioning in before and afters can make all the difference. A tilted head can worsen/improve the appearance of tear troughs, a double chin, and a jawline.
 
🔍Lighting: By manipulating lighting conditions, such as the direction, intensity, and colour of light, it’s possible to significantly alter the appearance of an individual’s features.
For instance, softer lighting can minimize the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes, creating a more flattering and seemingly improved after photo.
 
🔍Conversely, harsh lighting can accentuate imperfections in the before photo, exaggerating the contrast between the two images.
 
🔍Focal lengths: The Use of different focal lengths can exaggerate features that are closer to the lens, such as facial features or body parts, which may affect the perceived outcome in before and after photos. A good example is this photo.
 
🔍It’s also worth noting that there are other important factors to consider when choosing a practitioner, including medical qualifications and experience.
So, please do look at the whole picture before making any final decisions.
 
Thank you to BCAM for their contribution to this post.
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