Cutting Remarks: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Social Media Utilization and Experience of Online Harassment Among Plastic Surgeons

Social media has become essential for plastic surgeons to establish their practice. However, its use is accompanied with increased reports of online harassment, with limited data of its impact on the private lives, safety, and professional practices of plastic surgeons.

To identify the prevalence and types of social media harassment, its consequences, and factors that increase risk of harassment.

A cross-sectional study involved a 30-question anonymous survey that was emailed to active members of The Aesthetic Society (TAS). Data on demographics, social media usage, and harassment were collected and analyzed.

A total of 215/2600 TAS members responded, most identified as private practitioners (97%), male (67%), and White (81%). Instagram (95%) and Facebook (Meta, Menlo Park, CA) (90%) were the most used platforms. The majority of respondents (57%) post strictly professional content. Over half (58%) reported at least one experience of online harassment, mainly fake reviews (40%) and threatening messages (26%). Consequences included losing patients (24%) and legal issues (4%). Female respondents experienced sexual harassment at a higher rate compared to males (13% vs. 2%, P=0.004). Posting pre- and post-operative photos (OR 2.21, 95%CI 1.05-4.74) and photos with patients (OR 2.28, 95%CI 1.16-4.57) were significantly associated with experiencing any form of harassment.

Over half of the respondents experienced harassment, a rate higher than that of other physicians or the general public. Harassment patterns varied by demographics, with a modifiable factor being if surgeons post photos of their patients.