Perception Drift

“Perception drift”, a term coined and published by Dr. Sabrina Fabi, is when individuals can’t accurately gauge changes in their appearance after medical aesthetic procedures. People who often undergo cosmetic treatments sometimes forget their original look, leading them to seek more procedures without recognizing improvements from their “before” photos.

To prevent perception drift, medical aesthetic professionals should use pre-treatment photos to remind patients of their original appearance. Comparing current photos to baseline ones taken before the procedure can validate progress and prevent fixating on perceived imperfections. Professionals should also know when to stop treatments, as resetting the baseline frequently can lead to a perception of more flaws.

In a world dominated by social media and selfie culture, patients can lose sight of their changing appearance. Impressionable people might try to emulate celebrities and influencers who have undergone extensive procedures, perpetuating an unrealistic standard of beauty. This constant exposure to altered images can lead to “perception drift,” where the baseline for “normal” keeps shifting with repeated treatments.

Medical aesthetic professionals play a crucial role in setting realistic expectations and guiding patients with their training and experience. Patients should choose experienced and reputable professionals to ensure safe treatments that enhance their natural beauty.