Is perfect facial symmetry possible? - Dr. Ortlechner and her "Whole Face Approach

With her "Whole Face Approach" dermatologist Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner focuses on Ortlechner focuses on sustainable naturalness, which should be reflected in the face of her patients. A philosophy which distinguishes the specialist.

Vienna-based beauty doctor and dermatologist, Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner, is famous for her natural approach to beauty and L'Orèal Medical Expert. Enhancing but not overdoing it is her secret and therefore, she is loved by patients who seek an appointment for the quite famous "Ortlechner-touch".

L'Officiel Austria spoke with Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner to ask her about the latest trends in the industry and patients whose wishes she sometimes has to refuse.

The beauty industry surprises with innovations almost weekly, and the wheel turns faster and faster ...

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Indeed! There are more and more innovations, also in the field of aesthetic medicine. As a doctor, the most honest, authentic, and evidence-based way to assist patients is to educate. That is my philosophy. A trend or something completely new that hasn't been adequately researched has no place in medicine, in my opinion."

Fillers and Botox have gone mainstream in recent years. What trend are you noticing in this area?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Fillers and Botox have entered the mainstream because you have years of research and studies on them. With a lot of knowledge and experience, you can achieve very good results. In general, it's definitely going in the direction of a natural appearance."

As a doctor, do you ever say "no" to certain requests?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Quite often, because in my opinion, it is quite important to confront the beauty craze or the syndrome of dysmorphophobia. Social media, like Instagram, convey an image that no longer has anything to do with reality. That's where I'm sometimes confronted with absurd ideas."

Which minimally invasive methods do you consider effective and also lasting for the skin?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Very important is the so-called Whole Face Approach. You don't pick one thing, but look at the overall appearance: 'How can the skin look young and fresh?' The best way to achieve that is with different, small treatments."

"The so-called 'whole face approach' is very important. You don't pick out one thing, but look at the whole appearance."

Hollywood and our celebrity culture are constantly shaping perfection. But is that even possible? (Photo: Shutterstock)

And what maintains a natural appearance?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "In addition to proper facial care, minimally applied doses of botulinum toxin can prevent wrinkles from furrowing too deeply. It is also important that the skin barrier remains intact. In the minimally invasive area, you can put low-cross-linked, high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid under the skin to improve hydration."

What treatments do you recommend in the winter?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Classic peels, deep micro-needling, laser treatments, minimally invasive or small derma surgical procedures. All those where the skin can regenerate just better because the sun is not so strong."

Her tips for anyone who wants more beautiful skin?

Dr. Kerstin Ortlechner: "Tip number one: get away from the idea of perfect, flawless skin! This hardly exists but is conveyed to us through the media. It is also important that we, as doctors, educate people and distance ourselves from the illusion of perfect skin. Tip number two is my superheroes: Antioxidants, a suitable sun protection factor, and an evening routine that promotes skin regeneration. Then the classics: eat healthily, drink water, avoid nicotine, no or a very small amount of alcohol, get plenty of sleep and maybe a treatment or two from your trusted specialist."