Knowledge, perception and attitude towards aesthetic medicine among medical residents in Pakistan: A cross-sectional study

Authors

  • Sumera Shams AAPP Author
  • Hajra Imtiaz Director Medical Education Muhammad College of Medicine, Peshawar. Author
  • Rabia Pervez Director Medical Education Muhammad College of Medicine, Peshawar Author
  • Gul Sanga Peshawar Dental College, Peshawar Author

Keywords:

Aesthetic medicine, Medical residents, Perceptions, Cosmetic procedures

Abstract

Aesthetic medicine is a rapidly expanding specialty that blends clinical science with artistry, and patient centered care. While the Global demand for minimally invasive procedures is rising, its integration into medical education and structured training remains limited in many developing countries, including Pakistan.

 Objective: To explore the knowledge, perception, and attitude of medical residents in Pakistan regarding aesthetic medicine, including its training requirements, and role in clinical practice.

 Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 89 medical residents from public and private hospitals in Pakistan using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, prior exposure, knowledge, perception, and attitude toward aesthetic medicine. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

 Results: The mean age of participants was 30 years; 43% were male and 57% female. Only 11% had attended a private course or workshop in aesthetic medicine. While 94% correctly identified botulinum toxin, fillers, and lasers as central to the field, 16% expressed uncertainty about its evidence base. A majority (62%) supported recognition of aesthetic medicine as a separate specialty with more than 83% agreed that aesthetic procedures improve psychological well-being.3,6 Patient inquiries about cosmetic procedures were reported by 69% of residents, and 60% acknowledged cultural influences on patient preferences. Despite positive perceptions, 74% had never performed an aesthetic procedure.

 Conclusion: Medical residents in Pakistan show strong interest and favorable perception towards aesthetic medicine, but exposure and structured training remain limited. Formal integration of aesthetic medicine as a distinct specialty could help bridge knowledge gaps and prepare physicians to meet growing patient demand.

Author Biographies

  • Sumera Shams, AAPP

    MBBS, MPH, PGDIP Clinical Dermatology Royal Collage of Physicians Ireland, DFM, MCPS Family Medicine Resident CPSP, PG Cert Aesthetic Medicine Khyber Medical University, Fellow Diplomate American Aesthetic Association, Executive member Association of Aesthetic Physicians of Pakistan

  • Hajra Imtiaz, Director Medical Education Muhammad College of Medicine, Peshawar.
    MBBS,  MCPS family Medicine, PGDIP Clinical Dermatology (UK) M Sc Aesthetic Medicine (UK) MHPE
  • Rabia Pervez, Director Medical Education Muhammad College of Medicine, Peshawar
    B.D.S, MS Healthcare management, Mastership Laser Dentistry, Fellowship Facial Aesthetics, PG Diploma Global Health Diplomacy, PG Diploma Global Health Security

References

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Published

2025-09-17

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): Pakistan Journal of Medical and Surgical Aesthetics

Section

Original articles

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How to Cite

1.
Shams S, Imtiaz H, Pervez R, Sanga G. Knowledge, perception and attitude towards aesthetic medicine among medical residents in Pakistan: A cross-sectional study. Pak J Med Surg Aesthet [Internet]. 2025 Sep. 17 [cited 2025 Sep. 17];1(2):56-9. Available from: https://www.pjmsa.com/index.php/pjmsa/article/view/33