2026 . 02 . 24

Elle magazine: Plastic surgeon G. Stankevičius reveals the most popular facial procedure in Lithuania

For more than a decade, plastic and reconstructive surgeon Giedrius Stankevičius has remained deeply fascinated by his profession. He notes that significant changes have taken place in the field of aesthetic treatment in recent years: the stigma that plastic surgery is only for “celebrities” has disappeared, and radical operations are increasingly being replaced by less invasive procedures, such as the Gliding Brow Lift technique for eyebrow elevation.

Changes in aesthetic surgery: greater openness and awareness

According to the doctor, one of the most significant changes in recent years has been the public attitude:

“Plastic surgery is no longer associated only with celebrities or an excessive desire to change. Today’s patient is well informed, clearly understands their goals, and evaluates possibilities rationally. Increasingly, men are also showing interest in plastic surgery — a shift that is particularly noticeable compared to the beginning of my career.”

According to G. Stankevičius, a plastic surgeon at Gijos Clinics, people today decide to undergo procedures with greater confidence, while the availability of information helps them better understand the healing process. In addition, modern post-operative care and advanced scar management (such as laser technologies) provide a stronger sense of safety. Nevertheless, alongside this confidence remains a strong desire for natural results — patients are increasingly seeking subtle, individualized solutions rather than standardized beauty.

The most popular facial procedure in Lithuania – upper eyelid surgery

The doctor notes that, as in many countries worldwide, one of the most commonly performed facial procedures in Lithuania remains upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty):

“Drooping upper eyelid skin is a natural, age-related change that affects both women and men, which is why the demand for this procedure remains consistently high.”

Among the most sought-after aesthetic procedures, Giedrius Stankevičius also highlights the facelift. According to him, this trend is driven not only by the growing accessibility of aesthetic surgery, but also by increasing trust in specialists who continuously refine their expertise through international seminars and hands-on clinical training.

“The key priority for patients is long-term, harmonious results that preserve a natural appearance and reflect how they feel inside. These goals are increasingly encouraging people to opt for subtle yet meaningful changes,” the doctor explains.

Plastic Surgeon Giedrius Stankevičius photoshoot grey portrait

Plastic Surgeon Giedrius Stankevičius

Gliding Brow Lift – when a natural result is the priority

G. Stankevičius adds that upper eyelid surgery is increasingly combined with brow lifting:

“This combination allows not only the removal of excess skin, but also correction of low-positioned brows, which can contribute to a tired appearance.”

According to the doctor, the need for brow elevation depends on several factors: brow position, the degree of skin redundancy, facial proportions, and the patient’s aesthetic vision. In some cases, eyelid surgery alone is sufficient. However, when brow ptosis is more pronounced, blepharoplasty may not achieve the desired outcome, and a combined procedure is recommended.

There are several brow lift techniques available, but when discussing innovation and contemporary trends, the doctor highlights the Gliding Brow Lift:

“This is a minimally invasive brow lift technique performed through small incisions along the hairline. It enables precise brow elevation without damaging surrounding tissues, resulting in faster recovery, nearly imperceptible scars, and a natural-looking outcome.”

According to G. Stankevičius, the method is suitable for both women and men and is particularly valued by those seeking subtle, understated enhancement. Although introduced relatively recently in Lithuania, it has already established itself as a safe and effective alternative to traditional lifting techniques.

“Considering current patient expectations — natural results, lower invasiveness, and quicker recovery — the popularity of the Gliding Brow Lift is likely to continue growing,” the specialist concludes.

Subtle beauty – the new direction of plastic surgery

G. Stankevičius notes that even a change of just a few millimetres in the face can have significant aesthetic impact. Modern patients increasingly seek enhancement in a way that does not reveal that surgery has taken place.

“Invasiveness is assessed based on the extent of the intervention, the depth of tissue involvement, recovery time, and the risk of potential complications. In my view, the most invasive procedures include the classic brow lift and deep-plane (SMAS) facelift. These operations involve deeper tissue layers, their separation, elevation, and fixation, which requires a longer recovery period and greater technical complexity. However, they also deliver some of the most durable and pronounced facial rejuvenation results,” the doctor explains.

Less invasive facial procedures include upper and lower blepharoplasty, upper lip lift, and brow lift — performed either through a direct approach or via the minimally invasive Gliding Brow Lift technique.

G. Stankevičius emphasises that a less invasive procedure does not equate to reduced effectiveness. In many cases, subtle refinements can significantly improve facial proportions or restore a more youthful expression. The appropriate solution always depends on the individual’s anatomy, expectations, and overall facial harmony. For this reason, treatment decisions are made through careful consultation, selecting precisely what is most suitable for each patient.