Can Artificial Intelligence Replace Your Plastic Surgeon? Dr. Bouraoui Kotti Weighs In
Without question, 2023 marked the most significant year for artificial intelligence to date. From chatbots to algorithm-driven platforms, AI has permeated nearly every industry. But can it replace the skill and artistry of a plastic surgeon? Cosmopolitan Middle East explored this question with Dr. Bouraoui Kotti, a renowned expert in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery practicing in the UAE, who is betting on AI’s advantages to enhance the patient experience.
A Surgeon at the Forefront of Innovation
Dr. Mohammed Bouraoui Kotti is a highly awarded, Tunisian-born surgeon whose journey has taken him around the world. He holds the distinction of being the first native Arab and African non-European surgeon to be quality certified and recognized by the European board EBOPRAS. His global recognition was cemented through eight consecutive years as the first-ever National Secretary for Tunisia within the International Society of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) .
His expertise is so valued that he was awarded a golden visa by the Ministry of Health of Abu Dhabi two years ago, bringing his skills to the region. While his practice covers the full spectrum of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Kotti has earned particular acclaim for his breast surgery results and is regularly invited to teach his techniques worldwide.
The Philosophy: Blending Art, Science, and Technology
Dr. Kotti is the author of “The Hidden Stories Of The Breast,” also known as “The Breast Key Book.” This work is a deep exploration of the breast through the lenses of art, history, philosophy, and science, all in search of a definition for the perfect proportions of a beautiful breast, based on Fibonacci suites and golden ratios.
This symbiosis of art and science is a hallmark of skilled plastic surgeons. Dr. Kotti has taken this concept a step further by translating his research into the digital world with his AI-driven creation: the BreastApp.
The BreastApp: Empowering Patients with AI
The BreastApp is designed to offer patients advice during the crucial decision-making stages before surgery. Using just two anonymous photos, the app leverages Dr. Kotti’s classification and algorithm for breast ptosis (sagging), which was published in the Plastic Aesthetic Research Journal in 2018. It then points out potential procedural options based on the patient’s desired result.
The core idea is to help women considering surgery feel more confident and better informed before their in-person consultation.
“Funny and true story we discovered using the app for the first time, the clause ‘you’re beautiful no matter what they say’ displayed when the software calculates the proportions to remind every woman using the app that she doesn’t need any surgery to be happy and good in her skin and bra!” — Dr. Bouraoui Kotti
The app is also designed with a safety feature, reminding users to ensure their plastic surgeon is a member of one of the prestigious American or International Societies of plastic surgery for safe, professional care.
How the Technology Works
From a technical perspective, the BreastApp is based on image recognition. An algorithm detects and calculates specific landmarks described in Dr. Kotti’s book.
Crucially, it respects patient privacy:
- The analyzed photos are anonymous and faceless.
- Photos are never downloaded, not even onto the user’s own phone.
The app uses different technologies (Swift or Kotling) depending on the device and aims to integrate more AI through deep learning, meaning the user experience continuously improves the more it’s used.
Dr. Kotti shared a story illustrating the app’s value: a friend in Washington DC called him, impressed by the idea because it allows any woman to get an initial idea of a potential treatment before even seeing a surgeon. For instance, if achieving her desired result requires a lift in addition to an implant, the patient would already know the procedure might involve a scar or a different budget than a simple augmentation. This provides individual information and confidence for decision-making.
The Verdict: Can AI Replace Your Surgeon?
Despite the technology’s power, Dr. Kotti is unequivocal about its limits.
“Of course, nothing can beat the real consultation with a board-certified and recognized plastic surgeon. A good surgeon who may check the elasticity of your tissue and can propose solutions based on their rich practical experience is irreplaceable. But if they’re a good one, their decision will probably match the app’s conclusion.” — Dr. Bouraoui Kotti
So, the final answer is no, artificial intelligence will not replace your plastic surgeon. However, as Dr. Kotti’s work demonstrates, AI will make you more aware of the different solutions available according to your wishes. It offers a fast, private second opinion and valuable information to help ensure you find the right hands for your journey.
This article is based on the feature published by Cosmopolitan Middle East on October 28, 2023. For a personal consultation, please contact the clinic directly.