If you feel younger than you look, you may be interested in trying a cosmetic procedure to rejuvenate the appearance of your face. Lifestyle Lift, launched in 2001, is one procedure that offers high promises. According its website, a Lifestyle Lift is a minimally invasive form of mini-face-lift surgery that involves less pain and requires less healing time than standard face-lifts. Get all the facts before you determine that the procedure is right for you.
Proponents of the Lifestyle Lift claim that it reduces excess fat, tightens areas that droop, targets frown lines and wrinkles and brings back patients' jawlines. The facial surgery is not tailored to individuals or their unique facial structures, but it acts as a "one size fits all." Since 2001, the surgery has been performed on over 100,000 people.
Candidates
The Lifestyle Lift website says that the surgery is intended for anyone who feels burdened by signs of aging, such as sagging skin. Most Lifestyle Lift patients are in their 40s through their 60s. People who have health conditions that are controlled by medication may be candidates for the procedure, but some serious health problems may prevent some people from being candidates. Overseeing doctors check in with potential candidates' primary care physicians to determine eligibility.
During the Procedure
After financial aspects are taken care of and a consent form is signed, a Lifestyle Lift employee will prepare the Lifestyle Lift patient for the procedure. The assigned doctor answers any leftover questions before any local anesthetic is administered. After the local anesthetic takes effect, the procedure takes between 1 and 2 hours with the patient awake in a reclined chair.
The Doctor
According to Lifestyle Lift online, doctors who perform the surgery are certified or board eligible by one of three boards. However, not all of the doctors are certified plastic surgeons.
Post-Op
When the procedure is over, the incisions are cleaned, bandages are applied and the patient is sent home with instructions regarding healing and any postoperative medications. Patients are urged to relax for the rest of the day, apply ice or cold compresses and keep their heads elevated to keep down the bruising and swelling. Patients should avoid heavy activity and may also want to take a few days off from regular activities. However, they can resume showering the day following the Lifestyle Lift and even apply makeup while avoiding the incisions.
Complaints and Controversy
In July 2009, the New York attorney general slapped Lifestyle Lift with a fine of $300,000 after it was found guilty of false advertising. Employees of Lifestyle Lift had been posting on fake websites as "satisfied customers" and edited any negative comments to place the Lifestyle Lift in a positive light. A website, RealSelf.com, aims to shed true light on the surgery by allowing real customers to review and rate the Lifestyle Lift. Many customers expressed disappointment about slow healing time, a lot of pain and weak results. The website also offers insights from other medical professionals who respond truthfully to frequently asked questions about the procedure.
Member Comments