My Vilnius is a series of interviews that introduce you to people who call Vilnius their home. It’s all about the ordinary lives of extraordinary people and vice versa. Today’s guest is Dr. Darius Radzevičius, whose artistry and impeccable skill have earned him a place among the few most prominent plastic surgeons in Lithuania. He shares all about it from growing up in Vilnius to career highlights and industry trends in the conversation below.
VP: Could you tell us more about your story?
Darius: I was born and raised in Vilnius. Being a doctor has been a wish of mine since I was 6 years old. So, after graduating from Vilnius University, I became one, and the only one in my family. Since my studies, I have been attracted to surgery, and already, as a student, I assisted in the microsurgery department at night and on weekends.
VP: What was life like when you were growing up?
Darius: I grew up in the Soviet reality. Life was gray and dull. Despite this, I had a bunch of good friends in the “Azuoliukas” choir I attended, where excellent teachers taught us not only singing, but also life skills and shaped cultural norms. My first acquaintances also took place thanks to “Azuoliukas.” Consequently, I was influenced and surrounded by music; I danced ballroom dances and grew up loved by my parents and grandparents, who sincerely tried to give me the best possible opportunities for education.
VP: What has changed in the field of plastic surgery since you started?
Darius: Over the 25 years since I began my career, plastic surgery has undoubtedly changed a lot. The field has become accessible to practically all segments of society. The prices of operations have changed, but not necessarily decreased. It is just that, with the substantial increase in the number of plastic surgeons, the price range has expanded significantly. In addition, what was previously impossible has become the norm, especially so with various financing options, including payment by installments.
Some people talk openly about their operations and share their results on social media. In other words, cosmetic surgery is no longer a shame and taboo; it is no longer an area that is only whispered about; it is talked about publicly and loudly.
In the last several decades, technologies have also greatly accelerated healing and rehabilitation, and surgical operations have become less invasive, but, often, due to the desire to get maximum change or result, they have not become less risky. Thanks to the internet and social media, patients often come to consultations knowing exactly what they need. Though it’s a shame that there’s still a need for a doctor to do all of it. 🙂
VP: Are there any new procedures or trends coming to Lithuania? How much do you think aesthetic procedures are influenced culturally?
Darius: I think that globalization has influenced most plastic surgeries and procedures over the past 20 years. New trends reach Lithuania, like most other countries in the world, at lightning speed.
Genetic rather than cultural differences are likely more important. For example, Lithuanians have smaller noses than Middle Easterners, so nose surgeries are relatively rarer here than in Turkey or Iran. Also, in Lithuania, the shape of the eyes is practically not changed surgically for young people, but these surgeries are very popular in Korea and China. So, we are somewhere in the middle between naturalistic Scandinavians and beach-going Brazilians.
VP: What is beauty according to a plastic surgeon?
Darius: In my opinion, a beautiful person is associated with a healthy person. A person is not characterized by complete symmetry, so the human body should not be perfect. The goal of the operation should not be to make the patient absolutely symmetrical and perfect. Studies say that symmetrical faces are perceived as boring. If the asymmetry is pronounced and immediately noticeable, it could be corrected.
VP: What’s your philosophy in life?
Darius: I think that the most essential thing in life is balance and equilibrium. In order to work well, you must have quality rest. You need to love and take care of your body and push the limits of its capabilities. Not only is the body important, but also the mental and emotional state.
VP: What places would you recommend visiting in Vilnius?
Darius: My beloved place in Vilnius is the MO Museum. I could visit it every day. Besides that, I have performed a lot at the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society with the boys’ and youth choir, and it is probably my favorite concert hall.
Vilnius is a very green city. Bernardinu Garden, as well as Lukiskiu Square, are great places for a quiet walk with children or a dog. I am glad that bike paths surround Vilnius, and I can ride them undisturbed early in the morning.
VP: Where can we find you in the digital sphere?
Darius: I work at the beauty therapy and surgery clinic called Sugihara. You can also find information about me on my personal page: www.dariusradzevicius.lt. Being a photography enthusiast, I have a Flickr account and am also on various platforms, such as Instagram.
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