Before-and-after photos are often the first thing people look at when considering cosmetic surgery. Whether you’re thinking about a tummy tuck, a mommy makeover, or a different procedure, these images can offer a powerful preview of what’s possible, but only if you know how to interpret them.
Dr. Gregory Dumanian, the Chief of Plastic Surgery at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, is one of Chicago’s foremost board-certified plastic surgeons. His reputation for producing remarkable, natural-looking results matches his excellent communication skills. Our patients love how Dr. Dumanian explains options clearly and thoroughly, helping them understand what to expect from their transformation.
These tips can help you view before-and-afters with new clarity.
Key Features to Look For in Before-and-After Photos
Not all plastic surgery photo galleries are equal. Pay close attention to these elements to get a realistic idea of a surgeon’s skill.
- Consistent lighting: Dramatically varied lighting can make it hard to see the results, so ideal images are easy to see and not washed out or overly dark.
- Consistent camera angles: Camera angles matter. They can distort appearance dramatically, so look for the same (or almost identical) camera angles.
- Background: A background of the same or similar color in both photos makes it easy to see the results.
- Consistent photo size: Excessively cropped or zoomed-out photos could conceal details you need to see to assess the results accurately.
- Body positioning: Look for patients standing the same way in the before and after images.
- Skin tone and texture: Make sure the before and after images show similar skin tone and texture (to verify it’s the same person.)
- Varied body types: Elite plastic surgeons like Dr. Dumanian perform surgeries for many patients, not just the simplest cases. Also, when you view a variety of body types, you can look for the ones that match your body best to get an idea of what your results could be.
Ask Questions During Your Consultation
The best plastic surgeons are proud to discuss their work. Dr. Dumanian encourages patients to review his photo gallery before their consultations, and he’s happy to walk you through some of the examples during your appointment.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This pre-surgery period is important for gathering information and making the best decision for you.
Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation in Chicago
If you’re ready to confidently explore your options, call our Chicago office at 312-695-6022 to schedule your consultation. We’re ready to show you real results and help you explore the possibilities.