In today’s digital age, before-and-after photos are more accessible—and more manipulated—than ever. Whether you’re scrolling Instagram, browsing clinic websites, or reading online reviews, you’re likely seeing an endless stream of images claiming dramatic transformations. But how can you tell what’s real and what’s digitally enhanced?
At SARA Surgery, we believe in authenticity, transparency, and integrity in every part of the aesthetic journey. That includes making sure you have the tools to critically evaluate the images that often influence your biggest decisions.
Why It Matters
Your body and face are unique—and so are your goals. But if your expectations are based on unrealistic or edited photos, you’re being set up for disappointment or even harm. The truth is, photo editing tools and AI-generated images are making it easier than ever to create perfect (but fake) outcomes. These images can lead to false expectations, unrealistic beauty standards, and misplaced trust in providers who may not be properly trained or credentialed.
Red Flags in Before-and-After Photos
Here’s what to watch for:
- Over-smoothing or “plastic-looking” skin: If skin appears blurry, poreless, or too flawless in the “after” photo, it may have been filtered or airbrushed.
- Inconsistent lighting or camera angles: Changes in lighting or posing can dramatically alter the look of a result. True comparisons use the same angle, lighting, and facial expression.
- Cropping or hiding scars: If key areas are cropped out or overly shadowed, it might be an intentional way to hide incomplete results.
- Drastic, too-good-to-be-true changes: Real surgical transformations are powerful—but not magic. A dramatic change with zero signs of swelling, bruising, or aging could be AI-generated or manipulated.
- Unrecognizable “after” photo: A credible surgeon enhances your features, not replaces them. The best outcomes still look like you.
Tips to Verify Authenticity
- Check 3rd-Party Review Sites: Go beyond Instagram. Look at verified reviews on platforms like RealSelf, Google Reviews, and Healthgrades. Look for consistent, high-quality feedback about the provider’s work, communication, and results.
- Verify Board Certification: A provider certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) has undergone years of specialized training, passed rigorous exams, and upholds strict ethical standards. At SARA Surgery, Dr. Sara Dickie is proudly Board-Certified, reflecting her expertise and commitment to patient safety.
- Ask for Unedited Images: During a consultation, request to see high-resolution, untouched before-and-after photos of previous patients. Ethical providers will happily show you realistic, honest examples of their work.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a provider feels overly salesy, vague, or dodges questions, that’s a red flag. Look for transparency and professionalism at every touchpoint.
At SARA, You Stay You—Only Better
At SARA Surgery, we specialize in natural-looking enhancements that align with your goals, personality, and features. Whether you’re seeking injectables, laser treatments, or surgical procedures, we’re here to help you become the best version of yourself—without erasing what makes you unique.
We believe in:
- Real results
- Patient education
- Respect for individuality
- Ethical presentation of work
Book With Confidence
Considering a procedure? Schedule a consultation with SARA Surgery in Morton Grove to learn more about what’s possible for you. We’ll show you real, unedited before-and-afters, review your options in detail, and ensure your treatment plan is as honest and individualized as you are.
Your transformation should be rooted in reality—not filters. And at SARA, we’re here to keep it that way.
