New year beginnings and optimism work hand-in-hand to foster self-renewal.
"It's amazing what facial rejuvenation, whether surgical or nonsurgical, can do for one's spirit, energy and sense of freedom," assures plastic surgeon Deniz Sarhaddi, M.D., of St. Louis Cosmetic Surgery.
Looking into the mirror and seeing a bright face that looks fresh and rested can give a sense of well-being and simply feeling good, she says. "If starting the new year feeling good means getting a little filler under your eyes to brighten things up, or a little Botox to smooth your forehead, or a facelift to rejuvenate your whole look, why not? I think we all deserve to look in the mirror and feel happy with what we see, whatever that may mean for each of us."
To determine if one is a good candidate for cosmetic procedures, Dr. Sarhaddi recommends first being evaluated by a conscientious, board-certified plastic surgeon
"There are so many things I personally take into account when I evaluate a patient for a surgical or nonsurgical procedure to give them the most beautiful and safe result possible," she says, reminding that it's best for patients to focus on the results wanted rather than the procedure desired so she can combine her judgment, expertise and training to offer the most appropriate treatment.
Enthusiasm defines Dr. Sarhaddi’s approach to being a plastic surgeon.
She joined St. Louis Cosmetic Surgery after completing an Aesthetic Society-endorsed aesthetic surgery fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, where she trained with leading experts in cosmetic surgery procedures and advanced nonsurgical techniques.
Her interest in aesthetic surgery started with her training in oculoplastics and nonsurgical facial rejuvenation, then blossomed to encompass full facial rejuvenation.
"In my opinion, facial aesthetics demands a level of finesse and orientation to detail that I find challenging, fulfilling and frankly, fun. I love working at the millimeter level, and focusing my eyes on shadows and highlights and learning how huge of an impact a tiny, well-performed change can achieve," she confides. "To be able to change a person's face, but still keep them looking natural and like themselves, is what I think the work is all about."
Dr. Sarhaddi also contributes to the world of academic plastic surgery by writing textbook chapters and manuscripts, and serving as a peer reviewer for the Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
Why do people typically want to change aspects of their bodies?
Dr. Sarhaddi says she believes it's an incredibly personal decision to make a physical change. "Often, though, I find that patients want to look in the mirror and see that the outside reflects how they feel on the inside -- whether that's looking less tired or aged than they feel, or wanting their body to reflect the amount of work they've been putting into their health, or wanting to feel more comfortable in clothes that they like."
The emotional readiness to make that change is another aspect entirely, she adds.
"A surgical change comes with recovery, a period of time that can last months, when patients need support and reassurance that they will heal and do well. That's the most challenging time for patients, the time between surgery and that perfect postoperative photo you see online," she says.
"I'm proud that between myself and my staff, we not only provide that support when the time comes, but we have frank discussions preoperatively about what to expect, not just physically, but emotionally as well," she explains.
She says the journey from the first visit to her office to the point when the patient is fully recovered and photo-ready is why she's involved with this particular medical field. "It's incredibly fulfilling to be asked to take part in what is a very personal journey for my patients."
During 2022, Dr. Sarhaddi says she hopes to hone in on new ways of combining surgical and nonsurgical interventions for a facial optimization approach to rejuvenation for patients. She adds that a youthful, fresh appearance really starts with skin tone, brightness and quality.
“I believe that when people look their best, they feel their best. Someone who thinks they look tired, angry, old, or unattractive often lets those feelings affect their interaction with the world,” she says. “I love the impact a few (or a lot!) of perfectly changed millimeters and effectively placed highlights on the face can have on a patient’s sense of well-being.”
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Plastic surgeon Deniz Sarhaddi, M.D., says freshening faces brightens people's moods and lives, just like having a good hair day, wearing a perfect outfit, and admiring sunshine while sipping a favorite beverage. "I love what I do everyday, and feel lucky to have such amazing patients and partners at STLC."
