Isabel de Benito became Spain's first military doctor specializing in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery, and chaired the SECPRE after 65 years of its history. She performs the highest number of breast surgeries in the country and warns of the risks of trivialization driven by social media and AI. Her career highlights the profession's evolution and women's growing role in medicine.
Isabel de Benito, a Madrid native trained at Universidad Complutense with internships at Hospital de La Defensa Gómez Ulla, decided to prepare for civil service exams after her initial experience there. As a pioneer, she was the first and only military doctor in her specialty and chaired the Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery (SECPRE) in its 65 years of existence.
At her Porcuna&De Benito clinic, she created an Implant Control Unit to detect early complications. She performs the highest number of breast augmentation, reduction, and elevation surgeries in Spain. 'The work of a surgeon is the same whether done by a man or a woman: both are equally qualified', she states. She notes that traditional male visibility stemmed from women's lack of flexibility with young children, but 'that belongs to the past'.
According to INE data, there are 19.5% more registered female doctors in Spain, though female underrepresentation in leadership persists. De Benito sees a natural evolution toward more women in top roles. In her practice, she emphasizes psychology: 'Surgery can improve self-esteem, but it doesn't solve mental problems'. She refers patients with unsuitable motivations and rejects non-recommended procedures, even if they seek to mimic celebrities.
On advancements, she observes that 20 years ago breast surgeries were more aggressive; now they are more preservative and natural, with biocompatible materials. She warns against social media: 'It's not a good idea for people without medical training to discuss these issues'. As part of Institución Gournay, she pushes for regulation amid 'enormous lack of regulation'. She fears AI will worsen trivialization with fake 'before and after' images. She criticizes surgical tourism for low prices that cut safety, like post-op follow-up.
'The best part of this job is the ability to change and impact people's lives', she says, while acknowledging inevitable risks. To future female doctors, she advises pursuing the specialty without hesitation, balancing personal life, and aiming high.