Face-off: Social Media Responsibility in Medicine and Nonsurgical Treatment of the Face

Abstract

The practice of reaching an audience through social media to promote non-surgical treatments of the face is in its infancy. Young adults, arguably the most health-literate generation to date, comprise both the majority of users targeted by social media and the fastest growing demographic seeking cosmetic consultation. We know that this age group is also at an increased risk of depression and body dysmorphia in an era where non-surgical cosmetic options are typically thought to be gateways to surgical treatments. In light of these facts, it seems the ethics of medicine might be lagging behind the amorphous, rapidly evolving nature of social media and, specifically, its use as a platform for business promotion and health information. As cosmetic treatments become a normalized facet of society's health care routine, in large part due to its ubiquity on social media platforms, its promotion by providers requires reexamination so that its pro-social potential can be realized. This is ensured by fostering a social media presence and in-office attitude that treatments should be an agreement between patient and provider on realistic expectations and how best to meet them.