Linda Barker

DO YOU REMEMBER THE VERY MOMENT YOU DECIDED TO GO AHEAD WITH TREATMENT?

As I have each birthday, I look in the mirror, pull back my fine lines, and think 'Ooh maybe it’s time to do something!'

I am stronger in my 50s than I was in my early 40s, when I was busy with my career and bringing up a young child. I still feel fantastic, though. I actually ran a marathon when I turned 50. I just wanted to look as good on the outside as I feel on the inside.

Menopause was a difficult time for me, and so much happens to really undermine you as a woman. There are anxiety issues that come with it that I wasn’t expecting - it would zap my confidence before a meeting. I think I just wanted to do something that would counter those feelings and get me feeling fierce again.

Plus, my husband [Chris] and I had our 25th wedding anniversary in April so I'm definitely a little more aware of the marching on of time these days.

WHAT WERE YOUR PROBLEM AREAS?

I think I was concerned about general ageing around the eyes and jawline.

I ended up talking through my treatment options with Dr Khan and we decided on a few non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures. He suggested a Silhouette Soft Thread Lift to lift the skin and stimulate collagen, as well as some Ellansé - which is a dermal filler designed to kick start the body’s own collagen production.

HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS?

I'm over the moon, actually.

I wasn't in pain or even uncomfortable once. I was very surprised.

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THE HARLEY STREET SKIN CLINIC THAT TOOK YOUR FANCY?

Dr Khan and Lesley. They have my trust 100% and that is perhaps the most important thing I can think of when it comes to this kind of thing. I listen to absolutely everything that Lesley has to say about skincare.

I know categorically if I suggest having something done, to either of them, they will tell me the truth - even if that means saying 'you don't need that, Linda'. That level of mutual concern for your safety and your wellbeing is priceless.

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE PROCEDURE DAY?

The first thing that I remember feeling is relieved that the whole thing could be done at the main clinic. That definitely took the edge off.

The clinic is like a home away from home - it's not like walking into a hospital. It's warm and you can have a decent cup of Yorkshire tea. [laughs]

The rest of the day was just an adrenaline-fuelled blur, to be honest. As I said before, though, I wasn't even uncomfortable once. Dr Khan is a true professional.

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY PERKS THAT YOU WEREN'T EXPECTING?

I'm just feeling very content right now.

I'm grateful to have been able to indulge in a bit of self-care. I like to look after myself and just be the best that I can.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL PEOPLE THAT WERE ON THE FENCE ABOUT TAKING A SIMILAR ROUTE?

I know lots of people worry about tampering with themselves.

I tried Botox in my 20s and it wasn't for me. I didn’t like what it did to my face in the end because I want to look completely natural, but I don't think there is anything wrong with that kind of experimentation.

When you go to a practitioner that you trust, and you keep the treatments that you explore minimally invasive, you can get away with that kind of trial and error. That's exactly why I felt comfortable when Dr Khan and I discussed the treatment plan. Nothing too drastic, but just enough to make all of the difference.

I would say there is nothing wrong with exploration when it comes to beauty.

I'm very lucky and blessed that Chris is all for my fitness and beauty regimes because it makes me feel happy.

WOULD YOU CONSIDER POPPING BACK TO THE CLINIC IN FUTURE?

To the clinic, of course, but I don’t think I would ever have a procedure involving a general anaesthetic. I’m too squeamish.

I am all for results that make me feel happier in my skin, though - so perhaps in a few years? Who knows!