„GP Klinika“ – a dream come true.

Often, upon entering medical facilities, the body and mind are visited by excitement. The white color, marble details, and aesthetic minimalism are characteristic of medical institutions. However, the vision of Gintaras Papečka, the founder of „GP Clinic,“ was different: „The clinic is located in the old town of Kaunas, so we wanted to maintain its atmosphere. The facility features numerous works of art, the traditional white color does not dominate, and a sculpture that attracts many eyes adorns the courtyard. This is the path we have taken from the very beginning. Positive impressions from visitors allow us to understand that we are on the right track.“.

Upon entering your clinic, a sense of coziness envelops you, which is not typical for medical facilities. Do you often hear that it feels different here than elsewhere?

„GP Clinic“ is located in the old town of Kaunas, so we wanted to maintain its atmosphere. The facility features numerous works of art, the traditional white color does not dominate, and a sculpture that attracts many eyes adorns the courtyard. This is the path we have taken from the very beginning. Positive impressions from visitors allow us to understand that we are on the right track.

„You founded “GP Clinic" about eighteen years ago. You are the founder of the clinic, the director, the main plastic surgeon, conducting consultations and monitoring patients' conditions after surgeries. The responsibilities and duties sound like a big challenge for one person.

The dream of a private clinic visited me very early, even during the Soviet era. At that time, it seemed so distant and difficult to achieve. However, dreams tend to come true (smiles). This facility is one of the first independent aesthetic surgery clinics in Lithuania, whose activities are completely independent of any other medical entity. The responsibilities you listed indeed sound like a challenge, but that is the path I wanted to take. Of course, the patient volumes of other clinics are significantly larger, but visitors to „GP Clinic“ communicate with the same doctor from consultation to result examination. For most, this is very important.

The coziness of the clinic is provided not only by the interior of the facility but also by the overall atmosphere – a very close connection with the staff is felt. Do you work with many of them for a long time?

I have been working with some employees since the clinic's establishment – staff turnover is indeed very low. For me, as the head of the institution, it is pleasant because I know that the employees are satisfied with their workplace.

To be honest, I even tend to call patients partners. In traditional medicine, people treat an illness, while in aesthetic surgery, there is no need to overcome any ailment. People choose beauty procedures or surgeries of their own volition, so I always emphasize that we are partners with a common goal. The patient arrives at the clinic with a certain desire, and I fulfill it, but what the result will be depends on both. My duty is to provide proper consultation, answer all pressing questions, perform impeccable work in the operating room, while the responsibility for the outcome falls on the person after the surgery.

Do patients easily go through the postoperative period?

At first, there is shock, as in the first months one has to get used to bruises, swelling, stitches, and pain. Close relatives play a particularly important role; it is very important that they provide support, as otherwise, postoperative depression may develop, which is rarely talked about in our country.

How can one avoid unpleasant psychological consequences after surgery?

Education. The work of plastic surgeons is to familiarize with the postoperative period, showing not only the final result but also the path to it. It is important to explain to the person that the initial image is temporary and a normal path to the final result.

Perhaps you maintain a friendly relationship with patients even after surgeries?

Of course. First of all, the patient's commitment to appear to the plastic surgeon a month and six months after the surgery. It is very nice when people return even after twenty years and more (smiles).

How was the traditional clinic slogan: „Beauty is Your Choice“ born?

Quite unexpectedly, as experience and years grew. I aim to educate people that there is no coercion or pressure in the field of beauty, but simply – opportunities. My goal is to present those opportunities.