Coming

Coming: ChatGPT

Everyone is talking about ChatGPT and other advanced artificial intelligence conversational chatbots, so, I decided to see what all the hype was about. I asked Chat GPT to write an article on how ChatGPT will affect the practice of plastic surgery.

Within seconds, the following arrived on my screen:

As an AI language model, I can provide insights into potential ways that chat-based Conversational AI (such as ChatGPT) could impact plastic surgery. Please note that my response is speculative and based on current trends and advancements in technology. It’s important to consult with industry experts and professionals to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on the subject.

1. Preoperative consultations: ChatGPT could facilitate initial consultations between patients and plastic surgeons. Patients may be able to communicate their desired outcomes, share photographs, and ask questions through a chat interface. Surgeons can provide preliminary assessments, discuss potential treatment options, and address concerns, allowing patients to make more informed decisions.

2. Education and information: ChatGPT could serve as a resource for educating patients about plastic surgery procedures, risks, benefits, and alternatives. It can provide general information about different surgical techniques, expected recovery times, potential complications, and post-operative care. However, it’s crucial to remember that personalized medical advice should always come from qualified professionals.

3. Virtual simulations: ChatGPT might integrate virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) technologies to create virtual simulations of potential outcomes. This could help patients visualize the results of different procedures, aiding in decision-making and setting realistic expectations.

4. Post-operative support: After plastic surgery, patients often have questions and concerns during the recovery process. ChatGPT could provide personalized post-operative guidance, offering information on wound care, pain management, and instructions for follow-up appointments. It can also help identify potential signs of complications and recommend appropriate actions.

5. Appointment scheduling and reminders: ChatGPT could assist with scheduling plastic surgery consultations, surgeries, and follow-up appointments. It can send reminders to patients about upcoming appointments, ensuring better adherence to treatment plans.

6. Accessibility and convenience: ChatGPT has the potential to make plastic surgery information more accessible to individuals who might be hesitant or unable to visit a physical clinic. It could reach a wider audience, allowing patients to seek preliminary advice or gather information from the comfort of their homes.

7. Ethical considerations: As with any technological advancement, there are ethical considerations to address. Patient privacy, data security, and the potential for misuse should be carefully managed to maintain trust and confidentiality.

It’s important to note that while chat-based conversational AI can provide useful information and support, it cannot replace the expertise and personalized care provided by qualified plastic surgeons. Plastic surgery is a complex field, and any decisions regarding procedures should be made in consultation with medical professionals.

Going

Us?

There’s a lot ChatGPT can do and do well (as evidenced by the above experiment). That said, it will never replace the connection that we, as plastic surgeons, have with our patients. Certain things can’t be automated such as clinical judgment, experience, expertise, and of course, the aesthetic eye. Most importantly, AI cannot replicate the “human touch” or how we, as physicians and caregivers actually connect with our patients. Chat GPT and other sophisticated chatbots may help us educate our patients, aid in scheduling, and allow patients to “try on” procedures to get an idea of what is possible, but the human touch will always be essential in plastic and reconstructive surgery.