Patient Perceptions of Cosmetogynecology

Abstract

Obstetrics and gynecology has historically delivered comprehensive care. Over the past 50 years, the specialty has yielded to others for expertise in breast, cosmetic, and bladder treatments. Cosmetic surgery was first performed by gynecologists. Liposuction was invented by Giorgio Fischer in 1974. The first abdominoplasty was performed by Howard Kelly in 1910. With the advent of new techniques, surgery has minimal morbidity. This safety makes it possible for the gynecologist to reclaim the tradition as a cosmetic surgeon. There are no citations using the terms cosmetic patient survey gynecology. However, there are 534 in Ovid and 730 in PubMed using cosmetic patient survey. None were related to gynecology; most were patient satisfaction of the procedure. We therefore initiated a study to test the hypotheses that patients would (1) accept these additions to an obstetrics and gynecology practice, (2) be more likely and satisfied to have a procedure because the environment is comfortable, (3) refer other patients, and (4) perceive that the quality of care would not change.