Dr Lerissa Chetty gets philosophical on her approach to medical aesthetics. Embracing the guiding lights of elegance, authenticity, and collaboration, she unpacks her unique style of practice, which she’s dubbed Quiet Aesthetics.
You’ve probably come across the concept of “quiet luxury” recently. It’s been a popular notion of late, extending to various lifestyle domains, such as interior design and styling, dress sense, and, by my own extension, even one’s approach to interpersonal relations.
Elegance, consideration, softness, and respect are words that float gracefully to the forefront of my mind as core mannerisms.
Refinement is the silk thread that subtly binds those who favour this concept, and their veneer of unmistakable elegance – which has been carefully and thoughtfully cultivated, not bought – gently glistens for those who have the eye to take note. Blink, as the direction of the light changes, and you may miss it.
The values of those who appreciate this sense of anonymity are in complete opposition to those who pride themselves on ostentatious opulence, flamboyant displays of wealth, general excess, and the desire to be noticed.
German cars, designer labels, private jets, exotic foods; big lips, high-arched brows, and cheeks resembling a chipmunk’s – I’m almost certain a few friends’ faces spring to mind.
The practice of Quiet Aesthetics
Yes, there is indeed a manifestation of quiet luxury within the fields of cosmetic and anti-ageing medicine.
Quiet Aesthetics: this is a way of practice that respects anatomy and acknowledges facial ageing as an inevitable phenomenon, merely attempting to make the journey a gentle one.
It disregards flashy advertising and beguiling “special offers” and is, instead, considerate of the scientific foundations of the field, putting the patient’s best interests first – every single time.
The elegance of this style of practice, which is more innate than a taught or concerted effort, is that real value is placed on healing and gently improving, instead of transforming.
To transform, by definition, is to make a marked change in the form, nature, or appearance of something, alluding to a conspicuous alteration. The concept of Quiet Aesthetics, however, does not radically transform; instead, it nurtures individuality, upholds the aim of enhancing intrinsic elegance without overshadowing it, and, most importantly, protects the allure of uniqueness.
When trying to describe my style of practice as a cosmetic doctor, I would often use terms such as “natural approach”, “gentle results” and the like, but I struggled to succinctly put into words an overriding practice “character”.
After years of treating, and looking back on the tone of my consultations and the results that follow, I can now confidently say that Quiet Aesthetics is how I define my style.
Addressing patient needs through collaboration
As a physician guided by these values, I find myself saying “no” far more frequently than I actually opt to take on patients. The standard of practice I maintain is to develop a long-term relationship with each patient, with a collaborative approach and not a prescriptive one. If our values do not align, which becomes clear during the extensive consultation process, we respectfully and amicably part ways. This sense of discretion is key to maintaining the distinction that comes with a cosmetic practice that focuses on patient needs and not patient wants.
“Quietness” in an aesthetic practice aims to make anti-ageing and cosmetic medicine as accessible as realistically possible so that more people can benefit from the massive impact on mental health that seemingly minor physical improvements can have.
To my patients, I am always Lerissa and never Dr Chetty – I feel uncomfortable with the innate influence of the “Dr” title that is often loosely bandied around. If ever, I would rather be understood based on shared values rather than preconceived notions. Our personal insecurities may stem from different places, but they are insecurities, nonetheless. Just as I have felt empowered by the decisions I have made in an attempt at upliftment, I would like my patients to feel empowered by the choices they make in my office.
Through understated elegance, Quiet Aesthetics exudes sophistication and finesse – not only in results, but also in patient selection. Within the field of aesthetic medicine, it encapsulates the art of subtlety.
Progress, not perfection
So yes, although it seems contradictory to place the words “quiet” and “luxury” side by side, it is the concepts of balance, discretion, subtlety, and respect that result in the elegance and grace of Quiet Aesthetics.
With the aim to maintain an individual’s essence by focusing on refining their natural beauty, my goal is to make their subtle enhancements feel more like a natural improvement rather than an abrupt and conspicuous transformation. The spotlight at my practice always falls on progress, not perfection.
Rejecting perfection and embracing our inherent flaws allows us to appreciate the allure of authenticity and enjoy the consequent confidence and self-love that it brings. If you are protective of your own, like I am of mine, we would probably get along.
MBBCh (Wits).Advanced Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine (FPD)
Dr Chetty is the founder of COSMEDICClinics in KwaZulu Natal. With a clear idea of her ambitions in the field of aesthetic and cosmetic medicine, Dr Chetty undertook her academic pursuits towards this in 2016 and went on to complete numerous local and international courses in cosmetic dermatology, anti-ageing medicine, weight management and sexual rejuvenation. She was then accepted to advance her studies, completing her postgraduate qualification in Aesthetic Medicine with a cum laude pass.
Dr Chetty stays abreast of all developments within her field by attending an array of South African and international seminars and workshops and training doctors on techniques that she has honed over the years. As a trainer, key opinion leader and consultant for various medical aesthetic companies, she continues to advance in this ever-evolving and avant-garde field of aesthetic medicine.
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