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RACS ASC 2025
Ethics in Aesthetics: The Influence of Ivo Pitanguy
Verbal Presentation
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Verbal Presentation

4:00 pm

25 April 2025

Meeting Room C4.1

RESEARCH PAPERS

Disciplines

Surgical History

Talk Description

Institution: Royal Darwin Hospital - NT, Australia

Introduction: Ivo Pitanguy was a renowned Brazilian plastic surgeon and widely considered as a pioneer of modern aesthetic surgery. He is celebrated for his contributions to the advancement of facial plastic surgery and body contouring. This research paper explores Pitanguy's contributions to modern plastic surgery, focusing on his innovative techniques, his impact on the aesthetic surgery landscape, and his broader legacy in surgical education and ethical practice. Methods: a literature and historical archive review was undertaken. Results: Throughout his career, he uniquely emphasized the ethical and psychological dimensions of surgery, advocating for procedures that enhance a patient's well-being rather than solely focusing on superficial beauty. In his practice, Pitanguy championed the importance of patient consent, transparency, and informed decision-making. Pitanguy was also committed to training the next generation of surgeons, founding the Ivo Pitanguy Institute in Rio de Janeiro, which became a prestigious training centre. Conclusions: This presentation highlights how Pitanguy transformed the science and the perception of cosmetic surgery. His impact on the ethics of aesthetics resonates in modern plastic surgery and is reflected in the new Australian cosmetic surgery guidelines. References 1.Bhattacharya S. Dr. Ivo Pitanguy: Strived for a 'human right to beauty'. Ind J Plast Surg. 2016;49(3):300-301. doi:10.4103/0970-0358.197240 2.Khoo L. Plastic surgery founding father Ivo Pitanguy on life, learning and legends – remembering a giant. PMFA Journal. July 30, 2020. https://www.thepmfajournal.com/features/features/post/plastic-surgery-founding-father-ivo-pitanguy-on-life-learning-and-legends-remembering-a-giant
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Collette Massy-Westropp - , Dr Caroline Lam -