A Refined Philosophy of Aesthetic Medicine
Seema Dhawan in Conversation with Dr. Geeta Grewal
There is a certain kind of calm that immediately sets the tone for trust. It’s not theatrical, not rehearsed—just quietly assured. From the moment I sat down at 9Muses Wellness Clinic, that sense of ease shaped the conversation. Her manner is composed, attentive, and unhurried, creating space for real dialogue rather than a checklist consultation.
She took the time to understand what I was curious about, what I noticed in my own skin, and what I hoped aesthetic care could support over time. That listening-first approach set the tone for everything that followed—and revealed a philosophy rooted less in procedures, and more in perception.
One of the most striking insights she shared was that aesthetic care today is no longer driven by age brackets. Instead, it is guided by skin condition, facial structure, lifestyle, and long-term goals. For clients in their early 20s, the focus often centres on acne, hydration, texture refinement, pigmentation, tanning concerns, and overall skin nourishment—interventions designed to strengthen skin health early, rather than correct damage later.
As patients move into their mid-30s and beyond, more advanced treatments such as fillers and Botox may be introduced—but only when clinically indicated. Even younger patients may sometimes opt for lip enhancement, depending on facial proportions and personal preferences. What remains consistent is the emphasis on restraint and suitability. Each decision is framed around harmony, not trend.
What stayed with me most was her philosophy around natural results. Many of her patients, she shared, place complete trust in her aesthetic judgment.
“Beauty is about harmony,” she told me. “How I perceive your face guides how I treat it.” It’s a way of thinking that prioritizes balance over change—refinement over reinvention.
When I asked whether she listens to her patients, gives her professional opinion, or tries to balance both, she explained, “I believe in giving natural results, and most of my patients want the same—results that feel subtle and authentic. Beauty is all about perception. It’s about creating balance on the face, enhancing where needed, repairing tissues, and achieving harmony—that’s what makes a face truly beautiful.”
“Do people generally listen to you?” I asked.
“They do,” she replied with a smile.
“And what’s the ratio—men as well, or mostly women?”
“Men and women both come. Honestly, I’ve never had an issue. Most patients say, ‘Do whatever you feel is right.’ They completely trust me. I tell them, ‘Your beauty is my perception. How I perceive you is how I treat you.’ With that approach, they leave it entirely in my hands. And they often add, ‘We like the way you see us.’ They completely leave it to me.”
Downtime, Trust & Long-Term Thinking
When I asked about downtime, she explained that in nearly 90% of patients, fillers settle within 24 hours. Outcomes depend on technique, skin resilience, and how the body responds. With careful assessment and precise application, most patients are able to return quickly to their routines—often with minimal disruption.
She also spoke about pacing treatments realistically:
- Fillers are typically repeated once every 1–2 years
- Botox is generally advised every 6 months
What she emphasised was not frequency, but intention. Each session is designed to deliver subtle, cumulative improvements—results that translate into compliments, confidence, and the sense of looking well rather than “worked on.”
Everyday Skin Wisdom That Feels Practical
Beyond procedures, the conversation returned to what happens outside the clinic. Her guidance felt refreshingly grounded in real life: hydration and moisturisation for all ages, tailored to skin type. Daily sunscreen as a non-negotiable. At least one active product chosen thoughtfully, rather than layered excessively.
In your 20s, she often recommends salicylic acid–based actives for acne-prone or congested skin. In your 40s and beyond, peptides, retinol, and collagen-supporting products become more relevant for renewal and firmness.
At its core, her philosophy is simple yet powerful: beauty is about balance, consistency, and long-term skin integrity—not trends, excess, or dramatic change.
To see how this philosophy translates into experience, read more about my personal journey with the 9M Luster Facial at 9Muses Wellness Clinic.
