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.
“Whatever I start, I give it my whole heart and soul — I never do anything half-heartedly.”
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 of procedures, including all potential benefits, side effects, and complications. This empowers patients to make informed decisions. That’s why qualifications matter so profoundly in this field. It’s not just about technical skill in aesthetic procedures, but about having the medical expertise to anticipate, prevent, and manage any issues that arise. As a licensed cardiologist and aesthetic medicine specialist, I can confidently navigate these complexities. I would never entrust my own body to an unlicensed or unqualified “specialist,” and I strongly advise everyone to value their health more than a clinic’s price list.
What’s your favourite skin secret?
There truly is no magic pill or overnight miracle for radiant skin. The biggest “secret” is prevention: starting early with a consistent routine that protects against aging. I emphasize science-backed habits: daily SPF, antioxidant-rich skincare, hydration, and lifestyle choices that support collagen production and overall health. At my clinic, we customize preventive strategies using advanced treatments to help clients maintain that timeless glow from the inside out.
“Choosing a properly qualified doctor ensures you’re in safe hands, receiving ethical, evidence-based care that delivers beautiful, lasting results without compromising your well-being.”
Any role models?
My mother. She’s a strong Lithuanian woman who balanced her family and career. She has always been my ultimate role model, showing me that with heart and hard work, anything is possible.
Lessons learned from opening a business here?
Opening Timeless Beauty in the Algarve has been an incredible journey, but it’s come with its share of valuable lessons. One of the biggest is to do thorough research before trusting anyone, whether it’s contractors, suppliers, or partners. Blindly relying on promises can lead to costly delays and financial setbacks. I’ve also learned the importance of adaptability in a multicultural expat community: understanding local regulations, building a network with fellow professionals, and listening to client feedback has been key. Patience is essential too. Ultimately, these challenges gave me sustainable growth and surrounded me with a reliable team.
Plans for 2026?
2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for Timeless Beauty! After three years of building, with plenty of obstacles like ghosted interior design workers and unexpected costs, we’re finally moving from our one-room studio to the largest aesthetic medicine clinic in Vilamoura! My new space will feature 20 treatment rooms, offering a wide range of aesthetic medicine and beauty services tailored for expats and locals. We’ll introduce cutting-edge treatments like the latest Lutronic laser therapies, including Picosure Pro laser, Potenza, Elite IQ Pro laser, delivering non-invasive skin rejuvenation, pigmentation correction, and collagen boosting with minimal downtime. The clinic will have hairdressers, manicurists, pilates and massage available in one beautiful location in the heart of Vilamoura. This new beginning allows us to focus on team growth, bringing in top specialists to offer all services related to timeless beauty. I’m excited to welcome clients to this state-of-the-art facility, where we’ll continue blending medical precision with empathetic care. It’s a commitment to elevating aesthetic standards in the Algarve, helping more people achieve timeless beauty in a luxurious, supportive environment.
Follow Dr. Austėja Petersen
@timelessbeautyalgarve
www.timelessbeautyalgarve.com