You Cannot Look Like Your Filtered Photo
At a Glance
- 📱Social media filters as surgical references
- ⚠️Warning against unrealistic expectations
- 👨⚕️Expert advice from Dr. Schuhmann
- 🧠Risk of body image disorders
BILD Düsseldorf, 31 May 2023 – by Jana Quoos
Young patients are increasingly bringing filtered selfies as references for aesthetic procedures. However, plastic surgeons warn against unrealistic expectations.
What Social Media Filters Promise
Fuller Lips
Instant volume enhancement with a click
Defined Cheeks
Prominent contours in seconds
Flawless Skin
Perfect evenness without pores
Warning from Dr. Schuhmann
"A collective pressure is developing to undergo procedures, even though filters do not represent an authentic basis," says Dr. Karl Schuhmann. Many desire fuller lips or more defined cheekbones – effects that social media filters produce in seconds.
The Düsseldorf expert advocates bespoke treatments tailored to individual anatomy. He advises against permanent buccal fat removal: "Removed fat cells cannot be restored; in later years, additional volume loss poses a risk."
Expert Recommendations
Dr. Schuhmann
Bespoke treatments tailored to individual anatomy – not standardised filter looks
Dr. Bartsch
Limit social media time and nurture real-life encounters so that the brain registers unfiltered faces as the norm
Psychological Risks
Professional associations also caution: excessive filtering can distort body image and, in extreme cases, contribute to body dysmorphic disorder.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): A mental health condition in which those affected are excessively preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance that are barely or not at all noticeable to others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are filtered selfies not a suitable surgical reference?
Social media filters create unrealistic, artificial ideals that are often incompatible with natural anatomy. They disregard individual facial proportions and can lead to results that appear unnatural. Furthermore, filters set standards that are often surgically unachievable or medically inadvisable.
What is buccal fat removal and why does Dr. Schuhmann advise against it?
Buccal fat removal is the surgical removal of cheek fat to achieve defined contours. Dr. Schuhmann warns that this procedure is irreversible: once removed, fat cells cannot be restored. The face naturally loses volume with age – having fat removed at a young age risks a hollow, aged appearance in later years.
How can I tell whether my expectations are realistic?
A reputable plastic surgeon will explain honestly during the consultation what is medically possible and advisable. Warning signs include: the surgeon promises the exact filter result, does not address your individual anatomy, or pressures you into procedures. Realistic expectations focus on natural improvements that suit your face – not standardised filter looks.
What can I do to free myself from filter ideals?
Dr. Bartsch recommends consciously reducing social media consumption and seeking more real, unfiltered encounters. Follow accounts that showcase natural beauty and transparently label filters. Reflect critically: am I constantly comparing myself with digital ideals? Professional psychological support can help if you are struggling under the pressure.
When is an aesthetic treatment still worthwhile?
Aesthetic treatments are worthwhile when you are seeking a specific improvement that suits your natural anatomy – not to emulate a filter. Examples include: refreshing tired-looking eyes, harmonising asymmetric features, or addressing age-related changes. It is important that your motivation comes from your own wishes and not from social pressure.
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Über den Autor
Facharzt für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie & Handchirurg
Mit mehr als 30.000 Eingriffen und mehrjähriger Tätigkeit als Chefarzt führt Dr. Schuhmann seit 2016 als Gründer von artethic® seine Praxen in Düsseldorf und Berlin.