The Role of Medical Ethics in Aesthetic Medicine Today

Abstract

Introduction: Aesthetic medicine consolidated as a booming medical specialty, especially in Latin America. This growth brought with it new ethical challenges, due to increasing social demand, commercial pressure and the need for visible results. This research analyzed whether ethical principles were actually applied in daily clinical practice or whether they were relegated to the theoretical, focusing on the doctor-patient relationship, informed consent and the prioritization of holistic wellbeing over commercial interests.
Methods: The study used a quantitative, observational, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach. Forty people between 18 and 50 years of age, students of the Inter-American Open University, some of whom had already undergone aesthetic procedures and others expressed interest in doing so, were surveyed. Data were collected through surveys with closed-ended questions and analyzed through graphs and tables. In addition, it was complemented with a bibliographic review on medical ethics and aesthetic medicine.
Results: The majority of respondents valued the importance of ethical boundaries and transparency in aesthetic procedures. Concerns were raised about the influence of commercial interests and social expectations on medical decision making. Although satisfaction levels were high, doubts were raised as to whether physicians always prioritized the patient's health. Also, lack of knowledge about training in ethical dilemmas was detected among professionals.
Conclusions: The study concluded that, although there is awareness of the importance of ethics in aesthetic medicine, its practical application still faced significant challenges. The need for more ethical training, clear regulations and effective doctor-patient communication to ensure responsible and safe practices was highlighted.