The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Facial Aesthetic Surgery: A Systematic Review
Aurelia-Alexandra Colceriu, Petru-Iulian Ifteni, Liliana Rogozea, Florin-Gabriel Leașu, David StucklerAbstract
Background
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed medical practice, with early adopters using custom models in imaging-heavy fields. Millions of cosmetic surgeries prompt surgeons to seek better tools amid pressure for ideal outcomes. Past reviews have covered AI in facial cosmetic surgery for both reconstructive and aesthetic purposes. There remains a need to cover AI applications in a wider range of specialties, while assessing clinical relevance, readiness, and, when available, comparison with standard care.
Objectives
Our research examines AI's impact on facial cosmetic surgery by reviewing patient care stages, surgery types, AI architectures, and model sourcing.
Methods
Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and PROSPERO registration, we searched PubMed and Web of Science on August 25, 2025, for English studies on facial aesthetic surgery. We included studies using AI across all care stages, with at least 4 patients. Two reviewers independently screened, assessed, and extracted data. Of 1,832 records, 29 met criteria. We used Cochrane ROBINS-I and RoB 2 tools for risk of bias assessment.
Results
Most studies, mainly in Asia or the US, focus on AI tool validation, development, and applicability, with few interventional studies. Most AI models use convolutional neural networks and are commercially available. In facial aesthetic surgery, artificial intelligence (AI) aids treatment planning and outcome assessment, especially in facelift, rhinoplasty, and blepharoplasty.
Conclusions
Our results highlight AI's potential and emphasize the need for standardized reporting, updated regulations, and education programs that promote collaboration where surgeons co-design AI models.