Social Media Influence on the Choice of Surgeon By Patients Seeking Rhinoplasty

The study aimed to evaluate the influence of preoperative and postoperative photos of rhinoplasty surgeries published on social media platforms on potential rhinoplasty candidates.

This study analyzed the responses to 51 questions directed at individuals over 18 who had considered rhinoplasty. The first 6 questions of the questionnaire focused on demographic information, while the remaining 45 questions included 3 inquiries about each photograph. Their answers were used to evaluate the 15 before-and-after rhinoplasty photos shared on social media, with the permission of the patients represented in the questionnaire.

In response to the question, "If you were considering rhinoplasty, how would you select a surgeon?," 71.8% (n=249) of respondents agreed: "I would research on the Internet." When analyzing the participants who searched online, it was found that 190 participants (76.6%) indicated they would review preoperative and postoperative photographs, recommendations, and critical comments shared by doctors online before deciding on a surgeon. Fifty-nine respondents (23.4%) reported that they would research on the Internet, but their eventual decision would not be solely based on this research.

Our study revealed that after examining the photos on social media, when selecting a physician, people generally preferred the after pictures of rhinoplasty and were inclined to respond positively to the physician they deemed successful when considering rhinoplasty.