The phrase ‘pro bono’ is derived from the Latin term ‘pro bono publico’, which means ‘for the public good’.1 The term often refers to legal work that is performed voluntarily and free of charge for the benefit of society, however it is also a common term known in medicine for the same reasons. This article will explain how I got into charitable pro-bono work in aesthetics for victims of violence and provide my tips and considerations before embarking on this journey.
There are various ways one can go about doing pro bono work in aesthetics. However, I find that working with a local charity, discussed later, is a great approach. Some clinics treat disfiguring skin concerns such birthmarks, moles and pigmentation,2 but the mainstay of my pro bono work involves scar revision.
From a psychological and sociological perspective, improving a disfiguring mark on someone’s face can significantly improve not only their aesthetic, but also their lives. Individuals within our…