Artificial intelligence in plastic surgery: Current potential and future directions

Edoardo Raposio; Andrea Antonini; Elisa Bertulla

doi:10.23750/abm.2026.18251

Artificial intelligence in plastic surgery: Current potential and future directions

Authors

Edoardo Raposio Plastic Surgery Chair, Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genova, Genova, Italy; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
Andrea Antonini Plastic Surgery Chair, Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genova, Genova, Italy; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
Elisa Bertulla Plastic Surgery Chair, Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genova, Genova, Italy; Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence;, plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery, aesthetic surgery

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to reshape plastic and reconstructive surgery throughout all phases of patient care. By integrating computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, and robotic systems, AI has the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, surgical planning, intraoperative decision-making, and postoperative monitoring. This article reviews the current state and anticipated future applications of AI in plastic surgery, discusses emerging technologies, and evaluates challenges related to safety, ethics, and regulatory adoption. We suggest that, when responsibly implemented, AI will ultimately become a core component of precision plastic surgery, offering individualized treatment, improved outcomes, and more efficient clinical workflows.

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