Husband's Surprise Request Highlights Patient Autonomy in Plastic Surgery

In a recent incident at a US-based plastic surgery clinic, a unique situation highlighted the delicate balance between patient autonomy and the influence of partners in medical decisions. A plastic surgeon, Dr. Alexis Parcels, recounted a case where a patient's husband unexpectedly expressed a preference for a larger breast implant size during a pre-operative consultation. "I had not met the woman's significant other," Dr. Parcels explained in a video posted online. "And then we started marking her, I confirmed her size, and the significant other was like, 'Wait, wait, I want her to be a D-cup, not a C-cup.'" Dr. Parcels deftly navigated the situation, prioritizing the patient's wishes. "It's your body," she reassured the patient, underscoring the importance of the patient's ultimate decision-making power. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in shared medical decision-making and the crucial role of clear communication between surgeons, patients, and their partners.