What constitutes the perfect breast? According to Dr. Patrick Mallucci, it’s all down to a precise 45:55 ratio. That’s a generous handful, which places slightly more volume below the nipple than above. The nipple itself is upward-pointing, at an angle of 20 degrees. Now an internationally-recognised formula, it eschews Barbie doll proportions in favour of a naturally proportioned, pert bosom. “It revolutionised the way we approach breast surgery,” Mallucci confirms. “Today is the era of shape and form. People have moved away from the inflated look of the eighties and nineties and prefer a more natural aesthetic.”

‘Natural beauty’ and cosmetic surgery may sound like an oxymoron, but this is what has made Dr. Patrick Mallucci a world-renowned name. Nestled down a discreet cul-de-sac off Brompton Road, his private clinic draws a wealthy crowd seeking subtle adjustments and ultimate discretion. With Italian sofas and a glossy bar, it feels like a high-end hairdresser or a sleek pied-a-terre. Surgical procedures, from breast augmentation to rhinoplasty, plus all kinds of lifts and tucks, are carried out in the immaculate onsite operating theatre. Clients can leave via a private ‘invisible’ door below the clinic and, on occasion, it has been closed to allow certain patients complete privacy.

Away from the operating table, Mallucci London offers a smorgasbord of injectables, tightening procedures and renewing facials, many of which can be done during a lunch hour. The AQUAGOLD Fine Touch micro-needling treatment brightens, plumps and infinitely improves the overall tone of your skin through a bespoke cocktail of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and micro-Botox, infused with decadent ingredient du jour – 24-carat gold. The concoction is penetrated into the skin using gold-plated micro-needles, which are thinner than a human hair. Many now opt for micro-needling in lieu of laser work, although there is plenty of that on the Mallucci menu too.

Injectibles are conducted by US-born consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite, who books out months in advance for her trustworthy evaluations and affable bedside manner. Under Granite’s guise, you’ll come away looking rejuvenated, but not overdone. “Most of my patients ask to look brighter and fresher, rather than younger,” she comments. “I think social media in some ways has contributed to this as the more dramatic transformations are often the most visible. I always reassure patients that fillers and neurotoxin can be used to create subtle, natural results.”

“Today’s generation of women is more informed and considered in their choices,” continues Mallucci. “They are, generally speaking, more health-conscious and active, and they are therefore looking for a more natural style and aesthetic.”