Doctor Warns Against 'Consulting' AI For Aesthetic Treatments

By V. Sankara

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 (Bernama) -- The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the daily lives of Malaysians is becoming increasingly widespread, including as a source of reference for health and lifestyle information. However, the public has been cautioned against relying solely on AI when making decisions related to aesthetic treatments.

Aesthetic and regenerative medicine practitioner Dr Mohammad Syafiq Lokman said while AI can provide general information, it cannot replace a proper clinical assessment conducted by a doctor.

“AI does not meet patients, does not perform physical examinations and does not assess critical factors such as skin texture, facial structure, medical history, or a person’s emotional state. All of these influence treatment decisions,” he told Bernama recently.

He said aesthetic treatment is not merely a cosmetic procedure but a medical intervention that requires an individualised assessment of risks and benefits.

Dr Mohammad Syafiq, 37, noted that one of the most common mistakes today is making treatment decisions based on AI-generated information, social media content or testimonials without understanding the actual clinical context.

“Individuals have different skin conditions and health backgrounds. What works for one person may not necessarily be safe or effective for another,” he said.

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He stressed that treatment decisions should be made through a two-way discussion between doctor and patient, rather than blindly following trends or online recommendations. 

According to him, the popularity of a treatment on social media or digital platforms should not be used as a benchmark for safety.

“Some treatments are only suitable for specific indications. If carried out without proper clinical assessment, the risk of both short- and long-term complications remains,” said Dr Mohammad Syafiq.

He added that a doctor’s role is to ensure that any proposed treatment is genuinely necessary, safe and ethical, including refusing a patient’s request if it is not medically appropriate.

Commenting on the role of AI in aesthetic medicine, he said the technology should be used as a supportive tool for information and early education, not as a substitute for clinical decision-making.

“AI relies on existing data and does not fully account for individual context. In aesthetic medicine, even small errors in assessment can have significant implications,” said Dr Mohammad Syafiq, who practises aesthetic and regenerative medicine at DR Avora Clinic in Kota Damansara, Selangor.

He also emphasised the importance of public health literacy, urging people to exercise caution before undergoing any aesthetic procedure. 

In his clinical practice, he prioritises evidence-based treatments, patient safety and a healthy ageing approach through comprehensive clinical assessments and personalised treatment plans.

Dr Mohammad Syafiq is also a member of the Malaysian Society of Aesthetic Medicine, Malaysian Islamic Medical Association and IMCAS Academy, and has previously been involved in aesthetic treatments for several celebrities, including Mas Idayu and Ziana Zain.

-- BERNAMA