title: Advantages and disadvantages of computer imaging in cosmetic surgery.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Despite the growing popularity of computer imaging systems, it is not clear whether the medical and legal advantages of using such a system outweigh the disadvantages.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this report is to evaluate these aspects, and provide some protective guidelines in the use of computer imaging in cosmetic surgery.
  
  
  METHODS
  The positive and negative aspects of computer imaging from a medical and legal perspective are reviewed. Also, specific issues are examined by a legal panel.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The greatest advantages are potential problem patient exclusion, and enhanced physician-patient communication. Disadvantages include cost, user learning curve, and potential liability.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Careful use of computer imaging should actually reduce one's liability when all aspects are considered. Recommendations for such use and specific legal issues are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Division of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford University, USA.
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Koch
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chavez
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dagum
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Newman
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D003198:Computer Simulation / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D006801:Humans; D016365:Liability, Legal; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence