KRITSADAPHAT KAROON

Co-founder and Managing Director, Lovely Eye & Skin Clinic

Though it was a 19th century Japanese physician known as Mikamo who developed the world’s first ever recorded blepharoplasty procedure in 1896, today’s popular double-eyelid blepharoplasty, as we know it, is often accredited to David Millard, a US Marine Corp chief plastic surgeon stationed in Korea in the 1950s. From surgical reconstruction for those injured on the battlefield, to his doubleeyelid procedure for aesthetic purposes, the proliferation of Millard’s technique, paired with Western influence on modern beauty ideals of the time, has laid the foundation for Korea becoming the world’s frontrunner of plastic surgery.

Perhaps it’s no surprise then that Korea is where the renowned Dr. Nutthamanee Siripakkaphant, also known as Dr. Roungkaw, chose to pursue her specialised training in Blepharoplasty and Epicanthoplasty, following the completion of her medical degree at Chiang Mai University, and her Opthalmology residency at Chiang Mai University Hospital.

Together with her husband, Kritsadaphat Karoon, they founded the Lovely Eye & Skin Clinic by Becomewealth Co Ltd, in 2014. It was the first of its kind at a time when specialised beauty clinics and double-eyelid surgeries were practically non-existent in Thailand. Because mono-eyelids, characterised by the absence of the supratarsal crease, is a predominantly East Asian ethnic physical trait, this particular form of surgery has remained, to this day, a highly sought-after practice across the continent. Motivation to undergo such procedures varies from wanting to combat signs of aging, to attaining a sharper or more refined eye contour. In turn, ‘Dr. Roungkaw’s Technique’ has become synonymous with uniquely precise and advanced techniques, and impeccable transformative results. Dr. Roungkaw herself has been nicknamed the ‘Master of Eyelid Surgery’.

From lower blepharoplasty, to reduce sagging under the eyes, to extensional lateral canthoplasty, which repositions the tendons that shape the outer eye corner, to brow lifting, their clinic has got your covered. Having perfected her craft over the years, Dr. Roungkaw is reputed for pioneering her signature techniques in blepharoplasty and epicanthoplasty. And unlike most beauty clinics which offer a plethora of aesthetic surgeries and beauty treatments, Lovely Eye & Skin Clinic focusses primarily on double-eyelid surgery and treatments of other eye-related aesthetic problems.

“I think keeping our focus on one thing allows us to truly hone the craft and excel in what we do,” says Kritsadaphat. “Our goal has always been to provide the best experience and ensure the highest level of satisfaction for our patients, therefore we continue self-improvement, and establishing a distinctive style and leadership.”

In line with this rationale, they have also decided to maintain only one location in order to facilitate quality control and target niche high-end market. It wasn’t until 2015, while keeping up with the latest innovations, that the clinic introduced a selection of non-invasive skincare procedures, utilising laser innovations, catering to patients who do not want to endure surgery.

Although some would argue otherwise, there’s no reason why couples cannot successfully create and run a business together. While Dr. Roungkaw acts as CEO and lead surgeon, Kritsadaphat is in charge of all non-surgery and/or treatment matters in his capacity as Managing Director. Equipped with a degree in Marketing, and a Law degree, Kritsadaphat has played a vital role alongside his wife in moulding the clinic into the success it is today.

“I think one of my proudest moments was having been able to secure a location for the clinic and having laid down the groundwork which enabled the business to successfully take off,” he says. “More importantly, I was able to help bring my wife’s passion and dream to life. Having had the double-eyelid surgery done herself, from her close relative who specialises in double eyelid surgery. ‘Dr. Roungkaw’s Technique’ is a combination of techniques handed down from generation to generation, techniques derived from surgery in Korea, and her considerable expertise as a pioneer in double eyelid surgery in Thailand. Her technique isn’t just for double eyelid surgery; it can also be used for all eye problems. It has always been an inspiration for Dr. Roungkaw to help others and give them the same boost of confidence.”

The company now boasts a team of eight surgeons, all meticulously trained by Dr. Roungkaw, and about 50-60 other employees working in varying departments. The business has also grown to include the Urban Relax & Relieve, a department dedicated to pain-related issues that was opened in 2018.

“People often ask me what the strength of our company is and I can tell you it’s teamwork. In order to achieve success, we have to make sure that our team is top notch. It’s my job to make sure our team reaches its potential and that everyone understands our vision. To be a good leader, you must know how to effectively train and guide the team.”

It can be overwhelming to run a company but Kritsadaphat relies on his faith for guidance. “Buddhism teaches us the importance of living in the present, and I carry this with me in how I approach work and life as a whole.”

The couple are parents to three-year-old twin boys (about to turn four), and when at home quality time with the family is a must for Kritsadaphat – except in the mornings where he dedicates his time to workout sessions.

One of the most valuable benefits of running a business with your spouse is having someone to celebrate successes with. Looking ahead, the pair hope Lovely Eye & Skin Clinic will become a leader in the field in Asia. “For us, it is about striving to be the best version of ourselves, to keep developing and being better than we were yesterday.