Part of the fashion industry is now talking about the "quiet luxury" trend, suggesting that the ultimate luxury should be discreet rather than overt. Is this trend being transposed to the beauty sector?

We have therefore moved from the era of transformation to the era of preservation.

For some time now, Dr Luigi L. Polla, founder of Forever Institut and internationally renowned dermatologist, has been observing a return to a more natural, and therefore more discreet, look. The ultimate luxury for women today seems to have shifted from ostentatious beauty makeovers to effortless, unobtrusive beauty.

The emphasis is now on "glow" and the subtlety of flawless, radiant, firm skin. "The patient attracted by this 'quiet beauty' is no longer looking for the most extreme result, but one that is discreet, elegant, effective, safe and based on real medical knowledge", observes Dr Polla. This grail of healthy skin par excellence can only be achieved with a 360° approach: we fill in and correct, while at the same time treating spots, dilated pores and sagging.

Biostimulators and lasers, rejuvenation treatments that have (re)become the talk of the town

"In this return to naturalness, biostimulators play a key role, helping to put the skin back under tension, stimulating its own collagen production and therefore using less dermal filler. The result is a natural smoothing and lifting effect that lasts," explains Dr Polla.

Biostimulators such as Radiesse, Sculptra and HarmonyCa are the perfect complement to Botox and hyaluronic acid injections, which smooth out wrinkles and help to redefine or redensify specific areas such as the jawline, temples and lips.

As well as firming the skin, it is essential to work on the complexion and skin quality. There are treatments that are minimally invasive but have an excellent impact, such as TCA peels, AviClear, picosecond and fractional lasers, to name but a few. These gentle rejuvenation treatments also complement injections and cosmetic surgery.

The ability to combine different effective techniques, the DNA of Forever Institut

This ability to combine different techniques in an appropriate way is not within the reach of all doctors or medical aesthetic centres, and requires time and a certain investment on the part of patients. "For almost 30 years, Forever has been mastering this ability to combine all these techniques in an effective and accomplished way, thus confirming its excellence in these fields", concludes our dermatologist.

Ultimately, as Harpers Bazaar suggests, the question may soon no longer be "what brand are you wearing", but "who's treating your skin?

The post Le « Quiet Beauty » est-elle la nouvelle tendance phare en médecine esthétique ? appeared first on Forever Institut.

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With less stress and more time on your hands, what if summer was the ideal time to get a tattoo? Answers from the experts.

In a nutshell:

• New tattoos require strict protection against summer sun exposure.
• Seawater and swimming pools present risks of post-tattoo infection.
• Complications are decreasing thanks to better hygiene conditions in salons.

Summer, holidays, free time and lighter looks seem conducive to impulsive decisions... like getting a tattoo. But with sun exposure, swimming and perspiration, is this season really compatible with the care and maintenance of your skin? healing a tattoo? Find out from Lena, a seasoned dermographer at Rockin Rolls in Lausanne.

Do you notice an increase in requests for tattoos during the summer?

Lena: No, that's just it. Many people hesitate to get a tattoo in summer. They want to sunbathe, swim in the lake, the sea or the pool. As a result, there's generally a drop in the number of tattoo clients during this period. So summer is often a quieter time for tattoo artists, a season we dread a little. We try to anticipate by offering small designs that heal quickly, or by making arrangements with customers who are prepared to put their summer on hold for two to four weeks. Honestly, sacrificing a few days for a tattoo that lasts a lifetime isn't that big a compromise. But I understand that not everyone is ready for that. That said, summer shouldn't be an absolute brake. There are even certain advantages to getting a tattoo at this time of year. It's especially in tourist areas that there's a peak in demand, sometimes on a whim, when you're going out for the evening or on holiday. In Switzerland, for example, the opposite is true.

Have you ever heard of customers having problems after a summer tattoo?

Personally, no. I haven't had any negative feedback from my clients about tattoos done in summer. But I have seen cases, particularly of people tattooed abroad, who went swimming immediately afterwards or got sunburned. And yes, the results can be very disappointing, or even problematic, in the event of infection.

Are there any advantages to getting a tattoo in summer?

Absolutely. In summer, we're often more relaxed, sometimes taking time off, and less stressed. Your body recuperates better, and you have more time to take care of your tattoo. We also wear less clothing, which allows the tattoo to breathe better and heal more easily. In winter, tight or woollen clothes can irritate the skin. In summer, loose-fitting clothing or nothing at all over the tattooed area is ideal. As for the sun, if used in moderation, it can help the healing process by drying out the skin a little. But be careful: we're talking about short exposures, not long exposures. bronzette of several hours. To sum up: if well managed, summer can be a good time to get a tattoo.

And what are the specific risks of getting a tattoo at this time of year?

The main risks are exposure to the sun and swimming. A recent tattoo is fragile: sunburn or irritation can seriously affect the result, or even lead to infection. Sweating is another factor to watch out for. If not cleaned regularly, acidity can irritate the skin and disrupt healing. So you need to be particularly vigilant.

In practical terms, what precautions should you take?

For the first two weeks, it is essential to avoid direct exposure to the sun. Cover the area with a light cloth, bandana or bandage, depending on what you do during the day. Personally, I don't always cover my tattoos, but I stay in the shade and never expose them to direct sunlight. Once the scar has healed, you should systematically apply sun cream SPF 50, no matter how old your tattoo is. It's essential to protect it and prevent it fading over time.

What areas of the body would you recommend or advise against tattooing during the summer?

There are no areas to avoid absolutely, but some are easier to manage. For example, areas that are less exposed: chest, hips, buttocks... These can be kept covered more easily. But even an arm or a leg can be covered. Just cover them with a cloth or a light garment when you go out or expose yourself. The important thing is to plan ahead, depending on your activities and the clothes you'll be wearing.

Are there differences in post-tattoo care depending on the season?

Care remain the same all year round. What changes is the vigilance: in summer, you need to insist more on sun protection, avoid sunburn and remember to cleanse a little more because of the sweat. But the basic steps (cleansing, moisturising, protection) are the same, whatever the season.

What time of year do you prefer to tattoo?

I really like spring. It's the right time: tattoos have time to heal before summer, so you can show them off and enjoy the beach without worry. Personally, I'm not a big fan of tanningSo that's not what bothers me, but I'm careful about swimming. If I know I'm going on holiday, I plan my tattoos before or after. But really, any time of year is a good time to get a tattoo, as long as you adapt your skin care.

The opinion of Dr Luigi Polla, dermatologist in Geneva

First of all, from a dermatological point of view, old tattoos pose no particular risk in summer, apart from the natural ageing of the skin linked to exposure to the sun. Over time, the skin loses tone, making the outline of the tattoo less clear. «This is what we see in older people who had tattoos when they were young,» explains Dr Polla, founder in 1997 of Forever Institut, centre aesthetic medicine based in Geneva, Lausanne and Nyon.

On the other hand, a recent tattoo requires strict precautions, especially in the sun. "When a tattoo has just been applied, there is a local inflammatory process. If you are exposed to the sun at that time, particularly with a Mediterranean or darker phototype, there is a real risk of hyperpigmentation around the tattoo", explains the doctor. This hyperpigmentation will eventually disappear over time, but it can alter the initial appearance of the design.

Worse still, a sunburn on a freshly tattooed area can have far more serious consequences. "In this case, there are two superimposed inflammatory processes. There's a risk of increased dispersion of pigments in the skin, and even a loss of colour. The quality of the tattoo can really suffer".

"The best care is to cover up".

Faced with these risks, the best protection is still the simplest: "The best care is to cover up. During the summer months, we strongly advise you to physically protect the tattooed area with covering clothing", says the expert.

As for seawater, swimming pools and perspiration, the problem is not so much a deterioration in the pigments as an infectious risk: "After a tattoo, a tattooist generally recommends avoiding bathing in the sea, swimming pool or even lake for one to two weeks, while the skin heals".

The good news is that post-tattoo complications appear to have fallen. "There are far fewer consultations than twenty years ago. Today's products are better controlled and safer, and hygiene conditions in salons have improved considerably", says Dr Polla.

If you want to remove your old tattoo in complete safety, find out more about the laser tattoo removal at Forever Institut.

The post Article: Tatouage en été, fausse bonne idée ? appeared first on Forever Institut.

What is Radiesse?

The Radiesse® is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite suspended in a carrier gel. This gel produces a slight volume effect that is visible immediately after injection. It gradually fades, giving way to delayed biostimulation, stimulated by CaHA microbeads.

With little inflammatory reaction, it is particularly appreciated on areas where the skin is thinner - typically the oval of the face, the neck, the décolleté and the hands.

In the case of loss of volume coupled with loss of elasticity, Radiesse® can be mixed with hyaluronic acid. It is the ideal combined treatment in this case.

• 1 to 2 sessions are required depending on the area
• Period of effect: approximately 9 to 12 months
• Price: €600 or €990 with the addition of hyaluronic acid

What is HarmonyCa?

HarmonyCa® is made up of calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) and hyaluronic acid.

HarmonyCa® combines the immediate volumising effect of hyaluronic acid, which gives a slight volume and "lift" effect, with CaHA microbeads, which biostimulate collagen, for lasting results on skin elasticity and firmness.

• 1 session is enough for young skin, but from the age of around 45, 2ml will be needed to obtain the desired result.
• Duration of effect: approximately 12 to 18 months
• Price: 600 for 1 ml; 1,100CHF for 2 ml

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra® is made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a product recognised by the body as a safe substance. This component is the same as that used in absorbable sutures, so we can be sure that not only will it break down naturally over time - thus avoiding product build-up - but it is also very well accepted by the body.

Scuptra® induces controlled local inflammation over a slightly longer period than Radiesse® or HarmonyCa®, and is therefore particularly effective on the body (buttocks, knees, inner thighs, arms, etc.). Sculptra® restores volume and effectively and naturally treats the signs of skin ageing. Unlike other injectable products, its effects can last for more than 18 months.

• A minimum of 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart for over-40s
• Effective period: up to 24 months
• Price: from 900CHF for 1 session; 2,400CHF for 3 sessions

The post Radiesse®, Sculptra® et HarmonyCa®: quelles différences ? appeared first on Forever Institut.

The exosomes and the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are two treatments in the same therapeutic class: they activate natural cell regeneration by stimulating the body's physiological functions.

The polynucleotidesare in a different category. They are not there to directly stimulate regeneration by means of biological signals, but to improve the cellular environment.

Finally, the stem cell transplants (Nanofat) is the very best in self-regenerative medicine: rich in growth-factor stem cells AND regenerative cells (exosomes), Nanofats Boosts cellular activity and collagen production. It is therefore an anti-ageing treatment whose effects last for several years.  

➤ Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP): your own blood as a source of regeneration

The PRP is prepared from a blood testwhich is centrifuged to isolate the platelet-rich plasma. When PRP is injected, the growth driverscontained in platelets, are released into the target tissues.

Treatment autologous100% is a natural solution that is very well tolerated and has virtually no contraindications. As it comes from your body, it is also compatible with autoimmune diseases.

➤ Exosomes: ultra-targeted messengers of plant origin

Exosomes use biological properties of growth factorssuch as PRP (platelet-rich plasma). Of plant originThey are derived from Damask rose stem cells. Growth factors specific to the different target tissues have been selected and their total number is 10 billion times higher than in PRP.

Like PRP, they stimulate regeneration, but do not depend on the quality of the patient's blood (which can vary with age, stress or state of health), making them a a reproducible alternative.

Exosomes have anti-inflammatory properties and are often used in post-treatment to speed up recovery.

Theory is good... experience is better!

Our clinical experience demonstrates a synergistic effect of PRP and Exosomes.

In the treatment of hair loss in particular, Exosomes make it possible to increase the diameter of pre-existing hairwhile the PRP makes it possible to slow down hair loss and redensify hair.

With regard to faceThese two treatments are to be considered as treatments preventative anti-ageing, designed to slow down skin ageing. Their long-term effect is visible from a few months to a year, i.e. at least after a course of treatment lasting five to eight sessions. However, a "glow" effect is quickly visible, and lasts about a month.  

➤ Polynucleotides: another route, ideal for certain specific areas

Polynucleotides are the building blocks of DNA. Derived from purified trout DNA, polynucleotides have proven regenerative and anti-inflammatory roles. They have been scientifically proven in ophthalmology and rheumatology. In aesthetic medicine, in addition to their anti-inflammatory effect, they deeply moisturise the skin and improve its density and elasticity by activating fibroblasts.

They are particularly recommended for areas with thin skin, such as the eye contour and dark circles, the "bar code (wrinkles above the lip) or fine lines around the mouth.

➤ Nanofats

Le NanofatNanofat, or nanostructured fat, is a very fine, purified form of fat taken from the patient's body (generally from the stomach or thighs). Nanofat does not aim to restore volume, but to regenerate the skin thanks to the injection of new "baby cells" that are capable of differentiating into other cell lines and secreting natural exosomes.

Nanofats are rich in stem cells, growth factors and regenerative cellsNanofats, capable of boosting cellular activity and collagen production. Nanofats offer a wide range of benefits, in particular they last over time For the face, they are particularly suitable for treating dull complexion and scars (from acne or surgery), but also dark circles, fine lines and sagging skin.

At Forever Institut, we have also found that excellent results on the loss of scalp densityand the redensification of the vaginal mucosa - particularly after chemotherapy or the menopause.

The post Médecine régénérative : quelle solution choisir ? Le guide appeared first on Forever Institut.

What is a polynucleotide?

Polynucleotides are long chains of nucleotides, the 'building blocks' that make up DNA. In a simplified version, we could say that they are like small sequences of purified DNA, capable of acting directly at the heart of our skin.

In aesthetic treatments, the polynucleotides used are extracted in very pure form from trout DNA, a biological source that is particularly well tolerated and devoid of any pathogenic risk for humans.

Why use trout DNA?

Trout is a fish whose DNA is structurally very similar to our own. By extracting its polynucleotides and purifying them rigorously, we obtain a biocompatible molecule with a very low risk of allergic reaction. These extracts are odourless and protein-free, and come in the form of injectable gels.

What are the effects on the skin?

Polynucleotides act on several levels:

• Deep hydration Polynucleotides: thanks to their hydrophilic structure, polynucleotides attract and retain water, improving skin suppleness and density.
• Stimulation of cell regeneration Polynucleotides activate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for collagen and elastin) and promote tissue repair.
• Anti-inflammatory effect Polynucleotides are known to help soothe redness and inflammation of the skin.
• Improved texture and complexion By stimulating cell regeneration and deep hydration, the skin becomes smoother, brighter and more even-toned.

In short, they offer a real boostwithout altering the volumes of the face.

Who is this treatment intended for?

This treatment is aimed at anyone wishing to :

• Improve the overall quality of your skin (radiance, texture, firmness)
• Prevent or reduce the first signs of ageing
• Repair damaged skin (after sun, acne, peeling, laser, etc.)
• Treating delicate areas such as the eye contour, neck and décolleté

It is just as suitable for young adults looking for prevention as it is for more mature skin looking for a regenerating effect.

How does a session work?

The polynucleotides are injected using mesotherapy (superficial micro-injections) or a very fine needle. The procedure is quick, not very painful and does not require social eviction. Slight redness and oedema (especially around the eyes) may appear, but these usually disappear within a few hours.

A standard protocol involves 2 to 3 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, followed by a maintenance session every 4 to 6 months.

And the results?

The result being natural and progressiveHowever, it is generally necessary to carry out at least 3 sessions to notice this. In some cases, however, it is already possible to see that the skin appears more hydrated and radiant after the first session. Over the weeks, the complexion becomes more even, fine lines fade slightly and the skin becomes more toned.

In conclusion: a molecule to be followed closely

Polynucleotides derived from trout are a remarkable advance in the world of regenerative medicine. They combine safe, efficient and naturalThis is part of a trend towards gentle skin care with long-term preventive action.

The post Polynucléotide : il révolutionne les traitements régénératifs ! appeared first on Forever Institut.

Antonietta, our peel expert, explains:

"Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, I'm going to choose a vitamin A peel when my patient has acne-prone skin and/or active acne. It would also be the right peel for someone with a lot of blackheads that need to be removed effectively, as the heating effect of the peel opens up the pores, allowing the blackheads to be extracted. The results of a course of three to five peels, performed every 15-20 days, are astounding, especially for young teenagers.

On the other hand, a fruit acid peel, such as the PURIFY PEEL peelingcannot be applied to active acne. As the acids can penetrate through the pimple, there is a risk of burning the skin. "I prefer this peel when my patient has oily skin with a few blackheads but no active acne or regular outbreaks of pimples. Thanks to the fruit acids, it's a complete treatment, which also gives a nice radiance boost.

All of this, of course, must be accompanied by a skincare routine to be carried out at home to complement the treatments. After a peel, the skin is sensitised, so any irritating or exfoliating products should be avoided for around two weeks. "To moisturise the skin immediately after the peel, and in the long term too of course, "my favourite cream for oily skin is Kantic Light by Alchimie Forever". Recently, Antonietta started using Skinceuticals P-Tiox, which tightens pores. "The properties of niacinamide and polyhydroxy acid (PHA) have worked incredibly well on my pores, and I must admit I've really seen a difference in my skin. Finally, I advise my patients to complement the results of the peels with Eneomey's Purify Cleanser at 15%, as well as the Stim Renew cream for the evening".

Not forgetting, of course, the 50+ protection to be applied every day, without exception. 

The post Peeling anti-acné : que choisir ? appeared first on Forever Institut.

Exploring the roots and recent developments of aesthetic medicine, we had the privilege of talking to Dr Roland Ney and Dr Luigi Polla. Through their exceptional careers and significant advances, these pioneers have had a profound influence on the field of aesthetic medicine.

Their complicity is obvious from the very first exchanges. From acupuncture with gold needles to hyaluronic acid fillers by Dr Ney, to Dr Polla's creation of the first laser platform in Europe, these masters of aesthetics share captivating anecdotes and lessons learned from decades of practice. Imagine Dr Ney volunteering at a conference and finding himself with deep purple cheeks following laser treatment, or Dr Polla facing the stigma of being the 'black sheep' of dermatology for embracing aesthetic medicine.

These never-before-published stories, combining technical feats and moments of profound humanity, reveal the spectacular evolution of a field where every advance is a promise of renewal.

Read on for an intimate exploration of aesthetic medicine, where past and future meet to sketch out the face of tomorrow.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

Roland Ney (looking at Luigi Polla with a smile) Do you want to start?

Luigi Polla : No, you start.

Roland Ney : OK. So, I'm Dr Roland Ney, with a background in general internal medicine. I have a wide range of professional experience, having started out in tropical medicine and population genetics in Indonesia, before returning to internal medicine. I then opened a practice near Lausanne, where I practised general medicine and acupuncture for 20 years. It was through acupuncture that I turned, against my better judgement but much to my delight, to aesthetic medicine. Starting in 1986, I began using acupuncture treatments with gold needles to tone the skin on the face. My patients were very happy and came every three months. I was then naturally drawn towards the treatment of wrinkles, particularly with the appearance of bovine collagen on the market in the 90s. That's how I started injecting myself into the field of aesthetic medicine.

Luigi Polla : Impressive. I'm a dermatologist, with a sub-specialty. When I returned to Switzerland, I set up the first real laser platform in Europe, which enabled me to treat many children suffering from angioma planus, those red spots on the face, as well as the tattoos of the time. I entered the field of aesthetic medicine by chance, treating facial dyschromia, whether related to blood vessels or pigmentation. I then decided to set up my own clinic, dedicated to aesthetic medicine, while continuing to work part-time in dermatology. A few years later, I became co-scientific director at IMCAS. With my friend Roland, we founded the Society of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery, with the idea of exchanging ideas and making progress in our medical training.

When was your first experience of aesthetic medicine?

Roland Ney : For me, it goes back to aesthetic acupuncture treatment. We didn't treat illnesses, but took a purely aesthetic approach to improving the quality of the skin.

Luigi Polla : As a dermatologist, I began by sclerosing small venules on patients' legs. This was before 1986, before I went to the United States. When I came back, I injected beef collagen, like Roland. My first injections were in 1986. And thanks to the laser, I started to remove things that weren't aesthetic, even though at the time I thought I was just doing dermatology.

Roland Ney Our core business has gradually been taken over by aesthetic medicine. As time went by, we realised that this field was becoming increasingly complex, and we had more and more organisational tasks in our clinics. Little by little, our core treatments, such as dermatology for Luigi and general medicine for me, became less important in our practice than aesthetic medicine.

What were the major steps that led to the modern aesthetic medicine we know in 2023? What about the modern use of lasers in aesthetic medicine?

Luigi Polla : I'd say that the big changeover between almost archaic aesthetic medicine and modern aesthetic medicine came with the arrival of hyaluronic acids on the botox market and lasers capable of specifically eliminating certain unattractive features.

Roland Ney : You have to realise that at the start, in the 80s, aesthetic medicine was in its infancy. No one was interested in it, and dermatologists, apart from Luigi, were extremely uninterested. They said: "This isn't medicine, it's business, and we're not shopkeepers". So, basically, it developed as techniques and industry became more and more interested in the subject, seeing the development it could bring later on. Whereas conventional medicine has been around for generations, aesthetic medicine has not. So aesthetic medicine, I would say, is not even 50 years old. It's more like 35.

Luigi Polla : In the beginning, nothing was structured. We were learning from each other, weren't we? And then, as I said earlier, it was precisely these three elements that enabled us to make progress and have far fewer side effects. It was really if we acted according to the art of aesthetic medicine and medicine, we avoided as many side effects as possible. And this helped to popularise aesthetic medicine with the arrival not only of the industry, but also of the media. All of a sudden, the media - I don't know if you mentioned it - became interested in aesthetic medicine and became positive about it, understanding that it was a social phenomenon. And that was a big step forward. Secondly, I would say that there has also been a better understanding of anatomy in general, of the face and ageing, of the anatomy of ageing, how a face ages, and so on. This, of course, is thanks to the involvement of a huge number of researchers and anatomists, and also medical imaging and all that, so it's exploded.

Can you tell us about the history of fillers?

"There was even something we didn't see in Europe, which was collagen from human cadavers. "Roland Ney

Roland Ney : So fillers started with beef collagen, then there were two or three other attempts with pig collagen, and there was even something that we didn't see in Europe, which was collagen from human cadavers, which wasn't a success, but was never introduced in Europe. After about ten years, collagen was replaced by HA, which has not yet been dethroned. After that, non-absorbable molecules appeared on the market and continue to be used. Perhaps better and better because we now have a better understanding of the dilutions that need to be used and there are fewer side effects. So it's a gradual diversification because the industry has developed hyaluronic acids for the different objectives we have in treating the face, for the different areas we want to treat, for the different goals, i.e. if we want to stimulate collagen production or if we want to improve volume loss, they won't be the same products. Botulinum toxin has been used in the United States since the 1980s. It was an American ophthalmologist called Scott who discovered the relaxing properties of the toxin and it was used in ophthalmology to treat strabismus. The toxin then developed with different indications. It was used to treat perspiration. There were many, many indications in internal medicine and even now, more than half of the toxin used in the world, i.e. more than 50% of toxin, is used for medical treatments and not for cosmetic treatments. And toxins have also improved in quality. There are a very small number of laboratories producing high-quality toxins. So it's still a very special niche, but that's it as far as injectable products are concerned.

Can you tell us about the history of lasers?

"There was the great revolution brought about by Rox Anderson, who explained the concept of selective photo thermolysis, making it possible to destroy a target inside the skin without destroying the rest of the tissue "Luigi Polla

Luigi Polla Until then, we had continuous emission lasers, which meant that you pressed the pedal and the laser emitted a beam of light that didn't stop, and in the end it produced heat. For dermatologists or those who practised aesthetic medicine, it wasn't very interesting because you burned everything. The only people who benefited from these continuous-mode argon lasers were ophthalmologists. Then there was the great revolution brought about by Rox Anderson, who explained the concept of selective photothermolysis, making it possible to destroy a target inside the skin without destroying the rest of the tissue. This was thanks to a precise choice of wavelengths and the introduction of new lasers with very short pulse durations. This kept the heat inside the target. That was the great revolution. Then came other devices such as focused ultrasound to microlift the skin, radiofrequency to make the skin firmer, shock waves to break down cellulite fibres, and cold to eliminate fat cells, all of which led to major advances in aesthetic medicine.

In all your years of practice, do you have any offbeat anecdotes?

Roland Ney I'll tell you about two of them. One was my first conference, I think, on aesthetic medicine. It was in Brussels and I didn't quite realise what laser treatment entailed. And there was the whole audience. And then they said if there was anyone who didn't want to come, we'd do a treatment on the small vessels. So I raised my hand and stretched out. And then they started to treat me, and I could see all the faces above me saying oh, ah, oh like that, oh there there. I didn't quite realise what was happening at the time. And then when I came out and looked in the mirror, my cheeks were completely purple because it was a laser that produces purpura, so it blows up the blood vessels. So I had a huge haematoma on both cheeks that took a good 15 days to fade.

The second anecdote, which is sadder on the other hand, is from a patient who asked to see me a few years ago, two years ago I think, saying "I received injections in the under-orbital region two months ago. And since then, I can't see very well, so I'd like you to give me hyaluronidase". I said OK, come on, we'll have a look. She came in. She said, "Well, I've seen another doctor who's already given me hyaluronidase and then it got a little better for a week, but it didn't last much longer than a week. And then I examined him and after my examination, I said to him "Listen, what you've got is unrelated to HA. You have symptoms that are absolutely not normal and not compatible with HA" because she had a strabismus that she didn't have before. "And you need to do a magnetic resonance. And it's inside the head that you need to see if there isn't something wrong. And indeed, she had a very large brain tumour. So, just to remind doctors who are future or present aesthetic doctors that we must always be doctors first and that we must always think, on the one hand as doctors, i.e. whether there is another diagnosis behind it and on the other hand, not to carry out treatments that would be either useless or to the detriment of the patient's health.

Luigi Polla I'll tell you an anecdote that has nothing to do with the practice of aesthetic medicine. My first assistant, a doctor, came to my institute to learn the profession she now practises. When she was hired, she made just one request. She told me "I'd really appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone I was coming to work for you". Surprised, I asked why. She said, "You know, you're the 'black sheep' of dermatology, and people say that aesthetic medicine is like being a hairdresser. That was in '97, so not that long ago.

What would you recommend to a doctor wishing to take up this speciality?

Luigi Polla : I would say that aesthetic medicine, like any other branch of medicine, is an art based on science, an aspect that we perhaps tend to forget a little too often in aesthetics, unlike other medical specialities. What's more, as Roland pointed out, it's essential to remember our Hippocratic oath and to bear in mind that, in every gesture we make as aesthetic doctors, we must always prioritise this ethical commitment.

Roland Ney : I'd like to add one more thing: aesthetic medicine has become so complex that, to practise it satisfactorily for the patient, you have to devote yourself entirely to it or practise it alongside a speciality such as dermatology. However, I don't see how aesthetic medicine could be a complementary activity for specialists in gynaecology or urology, or in other medical fields. Therefore, for a young doctor attracted to this field, I would recommend diving into it if they are seriously considering making it their main profession, or at least the major part of their professional commitment. Limiting yourself to devoting just 5% of your time to it will never bring the results that patients have a right to expect.

Luigi Polla : I totally agree with that. As in any business, to succeed, whether in medicine or any other field, you have to give 100%. That's how you succeed, that's how you achieve great things, and that's how you can feel proud at the end of each day. Indeed, after a certain amount of time, which may seem relatively short, total commitment to 100% leads us to excellence in our practice and in achieving our professional goals.

Roland Ney And as for giving yourself over to 100%, I have an anecdote, because back in '95, I think, I sometimes went to see Doctor Polla when he was in his practice in Place Cornavin. He had this peculiarity, starting work at six in the morning and continuing until ten in the evening. So he used to say to me, "You can come if you like, but you'd better come between 6 and 9 or between 7 and 10 in the evening. So the 100% commitment for Polla was actually closer to 200%.

How do you see the future of aesthetic medicine?

Luigi Polla : Let's say, based on the history of how aesthetic medicine has evolved, it's very difficult to say because, in fact, things happen that we didn't expect. But we can assume that genomics, for example, will certainly enter our profession and perhaps take away a large part of our work because we'll be doing procedures that are more like medicine, I'd say, almost like internal medicine, with the pharmas introducing molecules that will allow tissue regeneration. And that, in any case, is not with the products we have now, we can, of course, partially regenerate tissues, but we're a long way off, we're perhaps at 5%-10% from what we'll probably be able to do. And if not, the other thing that could come into play is artificial intelligence, as in all other branches, in all other professions, with these devices that will enable us to analyse our patients' faces and tell us what we could do that would be brilliant. And then even after robotisation that will tell us, we won't even be told what to do. It will be the robot that does it, of course, but the human being will still be there. The doctor will still be there to keep an eye on things. But I think it would be a great help to us if, over the next two years, we were to see a major development in artificial intelligence in our field.

Roland Ney : Artificial intelligence and 3D imaging are going to revolutionise things. In my opinion, a significant proportion of aesthetic medicine will no longer be practised by doctors, but by other health professionals who will be trained or will be trained by robots. The current state of affairs, where it's practically only doctors who work in this field, will change in my opinion, because it's in society's interest to reduce costs and it's above all in the industry's interest to have more people or more machines performing these acts of aesthetic medicine. So I think there will be quite a big change in the panorama of players in aesthetic medicine. That's why doctors who want to get involved now need to have very solid training so that they can stand above all this variety of procedures carried out by machines, robots or non-physician collaborators authorised to carry out treatments.

Luigi Polla : Yes, I have an anecdote on this subject that made me smile a week ago. My grandson, Leonardo, aged 11, said to me: "You know, Papou, I've been talking to Mum, I'm going to do dermatology because I want to take over from you when I'm older". I'm not going to tell you the rest, but I told him: "You know, if you want to go into dermatology, you won't be established until you're 40. And above all, you're going to study medicine first, and then at the same time do a Masters at the EPFL or another top school like MIT, and so on. Because the future won't just be in the hands of the doctor". That's exactly where you're going. Indeed, I think that if you're a young doctor still in training, you should take an interest in what's being done in the human sciences and also in the technical sciences.

Conclusion

This interview with Dr Roland Ney and Dr Luigi Polla, two pioneers of aesthetic medicine, takes us back to the roots and evolution of this fascinating discipline. Their dialogue reveals an innovative journey marked by passion, exploration of the limits of aesthetic medicine, and a relentless quest for improvement. These personal and professional stories highlight not only the importance of solid training, but also the need for an ethical and dedicated approach. Their vision for the future, where technology, particularly artificial intelligence, will play an increasing role, underlines the crucial importance of staying at the forefront of progress and innovation. The interview, rich in anecdotes and insights, is a powerful reminder that in the field of aesthetic medicine, as our interviewees emphasise, if you choose to engage, you must do so with excellence and integrity.

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Read the full article online at : Sexuality: has cosmetic medicine found the G spot? | Tribune de Genève

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