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Medical Photography Guide for Bella Vou Patients

Before attending your Pre-Consultation Call, we request that all prospective patients send us photographs of their area of concern.

These are kept private and only used to help match you with the right surgeon — it's a key part of helping you get the best possible care.

If you’re unsure of what these pictures should look like, you can read our quick guide to capturing medical photographs below: 

Why Are We Requesting Photographs?

Providing good-quality images during your pre-consultation call will ensure you’re matched with the best surgeon for your needs.
Providing good-quality images during your pre-consultation call will ensure you’re matched with the best surgeon for your needs.

We completely understand that taking photos of intimate areas or areas of concern can feel unnatural, uncomfortable, or even embarrassing. Your comfort and dignity are deeply important to us.

However, we ask for these photographs solely so that the reviewing surgeon can assess whether they are the right person to help you, or whether a colleague with different expertise may be better suited. This ensures:

  • You are matched with the most appropriate specialist from the start

  • The correct treatment options can be discussed early

  • You avoid unnecessary consultations or delays in care

Ultimately, it is one of the most important steps in making sure you receive the best possible care from the most experienced surgeon for your concern.

How to take MEdical Photographs at Home

To help us accurately assess your needs and match you with the right specialist, please follow the guidance below when taking your pre-consultation photos.

Your Environment
  • To ensure consistency, try to keep the same distance between yourself and the camera in each photo — ideally around 60 cm (about 2 feet).
  • Stand in front of a plain, light-coloured background. A white or neutral wall is best.
  • Please remove any visible objects from the background, such as furniture, wall art, or notes.
  • Make sure the room is well-lit by switching on all available lights.
Photo Clarity
  • Your images should be sharp and in focus — if the photo appears blurry, please retake it.
  • Photos must be in full colour. Kindly avoid using black-and-white settings or filters.
  • For the clearest image, select the highest resolution or quality setting available on your device.
Lighting Tips
  • Natural daylight is best, so try to take photos during the day near a window, if possible.
  • Avoid casting harsh shadows caused by overhead lighting, and don’t take photos with light sources directly behind you.
  • If you're using flash, keep it consistent across all your photos.
  • Make sure the lighting highlights your body clearly — not too dim, and not overly bright.
Camera Setup
  • Set your phone or camera to its highest quality setting.
  • Hold the camera level — it should be straight on, not angled up or down. Adjust the height if needed so the lens is at the right level.
  • If you're taking the photos yourself, we recommend placing your device on a stable surface and using the timer function. This helps maintain a steady frame and the correct posture and distance.

Clear, consistent images are essential for us to provide the best possible advice and care.

Photography Guidance by Procedure Type

Are you unsure what the photos should look like? We've put together an easy-to-follow guide to understanding pre-consultation photographs:

Your journey starts with being well informed and there’s no better way than to have a private one-to-one consultation with one of our world-class cosmetic surgeons.
Your journey starts with being well informed and there’s no better way than to have a private one-to-one consultation with one of our world-class cosmetic surgeons.
Breast and Chest Procedures

Examples: Breast augmentation, reduction, uplift, chest contouring:

  • Take five photos: one from the front, one from each side (left and right profile) and one from the 3/4 right angle and 3/4 left angle
  • Arms should be relaxed by your sides unless instructed otherwise
  • Ensure the entire chest area is visible from collarbone to just below the breast fold
  • Avoid wearing bras or clothing that covers the chest
  • Use a plain background with even lighting to avoid shadows

 

Face and Neck Procedures

Examples: Facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, neck lift

    • Include five images: front view, both side profiles, and two angled (three-quarter) views.

    • Hair should be pulled away from the face and neck.

    • Avoid makeup and facial expressions – a neutral expression works best.

    • Ensure the full head and neck are visible, including the jawline and ears.

    • Use good lighting to avoid harsh shadows or glare.

    • For eyelid surgery, it will also be helpful to include images of your eyes shut as well as open, like so:

Body Procedures

Examples: Tummy tuck, liposuction, body lift, arm/thigh surgery

  • Provide front, side, 3/4 angle and (if necessary) back views of the area of concern.
  • Stand in a natural, relaxed position with arms at your sides (or raised slightly if photographing areas like the abdomen or flanks).
  • Make sure the full treatment area is in view, from just above to just below the region being considered.
  • Avoid clothing that obscures the body — underwear should be minimal but comfortable and appropriate.

For procedures such as arm lift, you'll need to photograph particular areas of concern to be reviewed by the surgeon. Here are some posing suggestions:

Intimate Procedures

Examples: Labiaplasty, vaginal rejuvenation

We ask for two specific images:

  • One standing close-up of area of concern.

  • One clear image of the area of concern exposed.

These photographs help our medical team assess your needs discreetly and determine the most appropriate treatment and surgeon for you. Please rest assured that all intimate images are treated with the highest level of confidentiality. They are securely stored and viewed only by the medical professional involved in your care.

If you're still unsure how to take these photos, we’re happy to provide clear, private guidance to help you feel comfortable and supported.

 

 

If you're still unsure how to take your photos or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out — we're here to support you every step of the way.

Your Privacy Matters!

These images are treated with the utmost confidentiality and are never shared without your explicit consent. They are securely stored and viewed only by our Concierge and Clinical teams to help determine which surgeon is best suited to your needs. Your privacy is our priority — and this step plays an important role in making sure you receive the highest standard of care from the most appropriate specialist.

If you have any concerns or feel unsure at any point, please don’t hesitate to contact our team — we’re here to support you through every step of your journey.

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