The Skin Doctor — Dr. Austėja Petersen

Dr. Austėja Petersen is a 33-year-old Lithuanian-born cardiologist and aesthetic medicine doctor, founder of Timeless Beauty Clinic in Vilamoura.

How did you come to live in Portugal?

Like many expats, my family and I left the often cloudy skies of Lithuania in search of sunshine, warmth, and a higher quality of life. I had the fantastic opportunity from Vilnius University hospital to complete an exchange year during my cardiology residency at Faro’s public hospital so my husband and our two young daughters flew to the Algarve at the beginning of September 2022. We timed the move perfectly for the girls to start the new school year, while I continued completing my doctor career.

Tell us about your career path?

My journey in medicine has been a long journey of 12 years of dedicated studying at University, required tenacity, sleepless nights, and full dedication. After I completed my final year of cardiology residency at Faro’s public hospital, to fully integrate and practice here, I spent the following year learning Portuguese. In April 2024, I passed the B2-level medical exam, gaining my doctor’s license from the Ordem dos Médicos, which allowed me to work legally in Portugal. Soon after, I joined the HPA clinic as a cardiologist.

Aesthetic medicine, however, has always been my true passion. Before relocating to Portugal, I completed specialised courses and training in London at the prestigious Harley Academy and the Medical and Aesthetic Training Academy (MATA), building a strong foundation in aesthetic medicine treatments. To deepen my expertise, I enrolled in a Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine at the Universidad de Alcalá in Madrid, Spain in 2024. Juggling a cardiologist job, running my own clinic, studying at university, caring for my two daughters, and leaving some time for my husband was undoubtedly challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Now, I’m fully focused on growing Timeless Beauty, offering cutting-edge, personalised aesthetic services that blend my medical precision with a holistic approach to timeless beauty, for expats and locals alike.

What is one thing that makes you different from other specialists?

My dual expertise as a fully qualified cardiologist with a Master’s in Aesthetic Medicine, combined with a holistic, patient-centered approach that prioritises safety, empathy, and long-term well-being over quick fixes. My deep knowledge of anatomy, medical background, and education allow me to understand not just the surface-level aesthetics but the underlying pathophysiology of aging and how systemic diseases, like cardiovascular issues or hormonal imbalances can impact a person’s appearance. My medical foundation ensures that every treatment at Timeless Beauty is tailored to the individual’s health profile, minimizing risks and enhancing results.

What do you think is the most important thing in your business?

Honesty and transparency are the absolute key. When a person entrusts me with their most precious asset, their body and health, I feel an immense responsibility as a doctor to handle it with the utmost care. No intervention is without risks, so I make it a point to provide a complete, clear explanation.

Follow Dr. Austėja Petersen
@timelessbeautyalgarve
www.timelessbeautyalgarve.com

“Whatever I start, I give it my whole heart and soul — I never do anything half-heartedly.”