With over two decades of dedicated practice, Mr Alex Karidis has shaped the landscape of cosmetic procedures with his pioneering techniques and commitment to natural, understated results.
Based in the heart of London’s St. John’s Wood, his impressive Karidis Clinic offers some of the very best facilities in the English capital city.
Here, LLM – Luxury Lifestyle Magazine sits down for an exclusive interview with Mr Karidis, discussing the nuances of facelifts, his approach to cosmetic surgery, and his philosophy on patient care.
The facelift has seen a significant resurgence in popularity. To what do you attribute this revival?
The increase in facelifts, particularly a 97 per cent rise in the UK last year alone, can largely be attributed to the normalisation of cosmetic enhancements through non-invasive treatments. As these become more common, they pave the way for more substantial interventions like surgery. However, there’s also a growing realisation among patients about the limitations of non-surgical options, which can only achieve so much before the need for surgical intervention becomes evident.
With various facelift techniques available, how do you determine the best approach for a patient?
It’s essential to understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to facelifts. The deep plane facelift, for instance, has been around since the mid-nineties and focuses on the mid-cheek area but doesn’t address the neck or jawline extensively. Each patient’s unique facial structure and specific aging concerns dictate the most appropriate technique. My role is to assess these needs accurately and tailor the surgery to achieve the most natural outcome possible.
Your results are renowned for their natural appearance. How do you ensure outcomes that enhance rather than alter a patient’s looks?
My philosophy has always centred on enhancing beauty naturally and subtly. The goal of any cosmetic procedure should be to make someone look better, not different. This ethos is particularly important in facelift surgery where the stakes are high due to the visibility of the face. I focus on meticulous technique and strategic planning to avoid overcorrection, which can lead to that undesirable ‘stretched’ appearance.
Can you discuss your innovative scarring techniques that have won awards for their minimal visibility?
Absolutely. The technique I’ve developed over the years involves making incisions that are not only precise but strategically placed to enhance the natural contours of the face while minimising visible scarring. By using a unique combination of manoeuvres during skin closure, such as counter-rotation methods and special tissue glues, I ensure scars are discreet and often virtually undetectable, allowing patients greater freedom in hairstyle choices and a higher confidence post-surgery.
With the vast number of procedures you’ve performed, how do you maintain stamina and precision throughout long surgeries?
Facelift surgery requires a significant amount of concentration and physical endurance. It’s a challenging procedure that can last anywhere from 3-5 hours. My practice is to maintain a focused and steady pace, ensuring every step is carefully executed. Adequate preparation and years of experience allow me to sustain high levels of precision throughout the procedure.
In an era where the push for quick solutions is common, how do you manage patient expectations, especially for those seeking more dramatic results?
I believe in honest and transparent communication with my patients. If someone’s expectations are not aligned with what can realistically be achieved or if I believe a procedure won’t significantly improve their appearance, I’m upfront about it. I feel a deep responsibility not to just perform surgery for financial gain but to ensure it’s genuinely in the patient’s best interest. This approach has built trust and respect with my patients over the years.
Lastly, what should potential patients consider when choosing a surgeon for a facelift?
Choosing the right surgeon is crucial. Prospective patients should look for someone with extensive experience and a proven track record in facelifts. It’s also important to review before and after photos of actual patients and read testimonials. A thorough consultation should leave you feeling informed, comfortable, and confident with the surgeon’s approach.
Mr Karidis’s dedication to advancing cosmetic surgery while maintaining the highest standards of patient care makes him a revered figure in the cosmetic community. For those considering a facelift, his clinic in London offers not only transformative results but a commitment to safety, artistry, and personalised care that stands out in the crowded field of cosmetic surgery.
Factbox
Address: Karidis Clinic, The Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth, 60 Grove End Road, London NW8 9NH
Phone: +44 (0)2074328727
Website: karidis.co.uk
All imagery credit: Karidis Clinic
