AI bots cause chaos for plastic surgeons as patient expect to look unreal

As AI continues to alter our world, it’s quite literally changing the face of cosmetic surgery.Experts note that prospective patients are increasingly running their faces through artificial intelligence software to “looksmax” their appearance, then asking surgeons to mimic the unreal results.“More patients are bringing in AI-generated images during the consultation process,” board-certified plastic surgeon Dr.Thomas Su told The Post.Inspiration photos have long been a part of the cosmetic surgery process.

But now, people are bringing in photos of computer-generated illustrations instead of actual faces — and expecting their results to mirror the uncanny, poreless portraits of video game heroes and fantasy heroines.“AI can create unrealistic expectations,” said Dr.

Su, especially if patients think a simulated selfie can match the real deal.The belief that ChatGPT can somehow design your perfect face is affecting everything from increased demand to delusional beliefs about what can — and can’t — happen on an operating table.In a survey published last year by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, patients who used AI enhancers to “develop” their new look had “significantly higher” expectations for plastic surgery outcomes.But could there also be a benefit to facing an AI-generated face?Dr.

Su isn’t ruling it out.“AI can help patients express what they are envisioning when they have difficulty putting it into words,” said Dr.Su.

“It can certainly help facilitate discussion and improve communication between patient and surgeon.”The caveat: “Everyone understands that it is an illustration, not a prediction.”Su likens the trend to patients bringing celebrity photos, which were helpful to surgeons — but partly because they were used in a medical practice and not a “Face-Off” simulation, and everyone understood you couldn’t walk out of an operating table with Brad Pitt’s entire visage on your skull.“In the past, p...