Makoto Shiraishi, MD
ISAPS Resident

2024's Most Cited Article in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal:
Performance of ChatGPT in Answering Clinical Questions on the
Practical Guideline of Blepharoptosis
Makoto Shiraishi et al, Japan

ISAPS: Congratulations on having the most cited article in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal last year! What does it mean for you to receive this award?

SHIRAISHI: Thank you so much—I'm truly honored by this recognition. You know, when you're deep in research, you sometimes wonder if your work will make a real difference. To see that this study has resonated with colleagues around the world and has been cited so extensively... It's incredibly validating. But more than personal satisfaction, what excites me most is knowing that this research is actually influencing how other surgeons approach their work. That's the real reward—when your findings help advance the field globally. It definitely motivates me to keep pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve through rigorous research.

ISAPS: In today’s work environment, what level of impact does artificial intelligence have on aesthetic plastic surgery, and how do you think it could influence surgeons and patients in the next five years?

SHIRAISHI: It's fascinating, really. We're already observing AI make significant inroads in several areas—preoperative simulation is becoming incredibly sophisticated, our image analysis capabilities have improved dramatically, and surgical planning is more precise than ever before. But I think we're just scratching the surface.

Looking ahead five years, I expect we'll see revolutionary advances in predictive modeling—being able to tell patients with much greater accuracy what their results will look like. We're also moving toward truly individualized treatment plans, where AI helps us tailor every aspect of surgery to the specific patient. For our patients, this translates to safer procedures and more predictable, satisfying results.

As surgeons, AI is becoming an invaluable tool that allows us to work more efficiently while maintaining—or even improving—precision. But here's what really excites me: generative AI. It's the most versatile and powerful development we're seeing, with enormous potential we're only beginning to understand.

That said, I think it's crucial that we remain realistic about the current limitations. We need to be transparent with patients about what generative AI can and cannot do and address the risks they might face when using these tools independently. My goal is to help our field navigate this evolution thoughtfully—embracing the benefits while being honest about the challenges.

ISAPS: You will receive the award at the ISAPS Olympiad World Congress Awards Ceremony. What makes the ISAPS Congress unique, and what would you tell someone why it is so important to attend?

SHIRAISHI: I think that there's really nothing quite like it. The ISAPS Congress brings together the absolute best minds in aesthetic plastic surgery from every corner of the globe. It's not just another conference—it's where the future of our field gets shaped.

What makes it unique is the caliber of the presentations and the depth of knowledge sharing. You're getting the latest technological breakthroughs, cutting-edge research findings, and practical insights that you simply can't find anywhere else. But beyond the formal sessions, the networking opportunities are invaluable. The connections you make—with established leaders and rising stars alike—often lead to collaborations that last for years.

For any aesthetic plastic surgeon serious about staying at the forefront of the field, this isn't optional; it's essential. You walk away with knowledge that directly improves your techniques and ultimately benefits your patients. I actually encourage my colleagues back home to participate more actively. The global perspective you gain is truly transformative.

ISAPS: How has your ISAPS Resident Membership guided your career since joining, and what does being part of the #ISAPSFamily mean for you?

SHIRAISHI: The Resident Membership has been absolutely pivotal in my development as a surgeon and researcher. From day one, the resources available—the webinars, access to the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal (APS), the educational content—they've kept me connected to the latest developments in real-time.

But what's been even more valuable is the mentorship and networking opportunities. I've been able to connect with world-renowned surgeons who've become genuine mentors, as well as peers from my generation who are doing incredible work. These relationships have opened doors I never would have imagined.

Looking forward, I'm particularly excited about potentially taking on more responsibility, maybe helping manage webinars, participating in international research collaborations, or contributing more as an Editorial Board Member for APS.

As for being part of the #ISAPSFamily, that phrase really captures something special. This isn't just a professional membership; it's a community united by a shared mission. We're all working toward the same goals: advancing aesthetic plastic surgery, improving our techniques, and ultimately providing the best possible care for our patients. There's a sense of camaraderie and mutual support that goes beyond typical professional associations. It's about being part of something bigger than yourself, a global effort to elevate our entire field.

To see all of this year's award winners, click here.