Abstract
<jats:p>The article reveals the concept, essence, and meaning of informed voluntary consent (IDS) as a means of protecting the rights of patients during plastic surgery. The procedure for obtaining IDS in Russia has been identified, as well as its shortcomings that hinder the protection of patients' rights. The requirements that the IDS must meet are considered. It is emphasized that the patient's right to determine his fate can be fully realized if the patient has received all the necessary information from the doctor to make a decision. It is concluded that the current practice of obtaining informed consent in Russia does not meet the interests of patients, does not protect their rights and should be reviewed in the direction of observing the principles of personal autonomy, balance of interests, taking into account each specific clinical case and comprehensively informing the patient about the upcoming medical intervention. A proposal has been made to introduce a “cooling-off period” for up to 2 weeks after signing the IDC, so that the patient can calmly reflect and weigh his decision and its consequences.</jats:p>