Does the Trademarked 'LazerLift' Really Work?

Question

How about as just an alternative for a woman in her 40's that only needs a mini facelift, or not quite even that yet.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Of course, I know it's just about marketing, and "cute" names are ways of getting around trademark restrictions, but still, you get the idea that this is more about hype than science. "Laser" anything still seems to make people think they are getting the latest, greatest, and "up-to-datest" technology around, but do you think my facelift procedure should be called the "Tholen PowerLift?" or, maybe the "EternoLift?" Or, how about "The Fountain of Youth Lift?" Probably not the latter; Ponce de Leon probably trademarked that one! Will the "name" make my procedure better, or my patients' happiness greater? Doubtful.

	I'm sorry to be so sarcastic and dismissive, especially since the LazerLift was featured on such a renowned and peer-reviewed scientific venue as "The Doctors" TV show, but this "trademarked operation" is simply using a laser fiber to try to melt fat and tighten skin via tiny incisions. Shrinkage and elasticity are required to achieve any kind of improvement at all, and if you look at LazerLift before and after photographs, the improvements are visible, but overall, these are still pretty marginal results by my standards.

	If I were to see you, I'd tell you what works, when it is worthwhile to undergo a real surgical procedure (even with minimal risks and downtime, all surgery is still surgery, even a "mini" lift or this "LazerLift"), and offer what is liable to give the best and lasting results. Then you can decide if you're ready.

	I understand you're early in the process, and may not "need" a full facelift. Please understand that even a mini facelift uses some incisions, requires some anesthesia (and minimal but real risks), and has a recovery period, just as the "LazerLift" does. Any time patients try to get "something" for less (less surgery, fewer incisions, less scarring, less recovery, less cost or downtime, etc.), what USUALLY happens is that they end up getting less for more (cost, recovery, pain, etc.) because of course you're paying for this "cutting edge" "trademarked" "featured on the Doctors" procedure!

	There are snake oil salemen even among surgeons; please see only ABPS-certified plastic surgeons, and realize that there may even be a few "headline grabbers" and "hype-marketers" among us. A real plastic surgeon wants to be known for being good, not for the slickness of his/her marketing! For several examples of my ("standard" "no-name") facelift patients (each of whom underwent dual-plane SMAS facelift procedures including platysmaplasty and submental fat excision as required) at various ages and severity of "need," please click on the web reference below. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The "laser facelift" or "Lazerlift" is a good procedure for the right patient and with the right expectations.  It is not a facelift.  It addresses the same areas through a different approach.  The 1440 laser causes collagen formation and tightening of the skin of the lower face and neck over the course of about 3-6 months (gradual improvement).  It is very reliant on a persons quality of skin and thus it is better for patients in their late 30s through early 50s than it is for someone in their 70s with paper-thin skin.  I generally tell patients that they should look for 30-50% the results from a traditional facelift.  In my mind the procedure is optimal for patients that do not want to have pre-auricular or post-auricular incisions (to be fair, the Lazerlift requires tiny 3mm incisions under the chin and behind the ears), want minimal downtime without bruising, or are not comfortable with a full facelift.  It is generally well tolerated under local and mild oral anesthesia.  With this understanding, it is a good procedure.  On the other hand, if you don't mind the idea of a facelift, can take a week or two off of work, don't mind temporary bruising, then you are probably better off with a traditional facelift.  Don't let price be the determining factor as they are not equivalent procedures.  I would recommend consulting with a couple of respected facial plastic or general plastic surgeons in your area who have the Precision TX laser to get an understanding of what to expect and to guide you in the right direction.  If you go to someone who doesn't have the device, they are more likely to disparage it (when your only tool is a hammer, everything looks like a nail).  I hope this helps clarify the differences and what to expect.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Without pictures or an exam, it is difficult to give any advice. This treatment can help with improvement in skin quality but produces less than a dramatic lift. It is not without risk as well such as burns, etc. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

It depends on what laser is being used to treat which problem. There are so many different lasers used for a variety of conditions. Some work well, some are a dissappointment, and some laser treatments are not particularly easy recoveries. The loose use of the term Lazerlift to me implies that it's true use is being cloaked in mystery for the sake of trying to make it seem like magic. Trust me, there is no magic out there, but many good sales gimmicks. I wish I thought of it!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There are lots of gimmicks for facial rejuvenation. Loose skin can be tightened only modestly with electromagnetic energy (e.g. laser). Significant laxity of skin can only be removed surgically.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

Laser lifts are not very dependable and have minimal and short-term results as they don’t address the most important aging layer of the face - the muscle and fascia

Mark Glasgold, MD, FACS · Answer

All of the non invasive technologies that use some form of heat energy have been associated with volume loss that is well documented in the forums of real self.  This would include lasers, ultrasound (ulthera) and radiofrequency /plasma (thermage).  I get patients from all over the world seeking volume restoration with fat grafting after volume loss as a result of these procedures.  While the it is not common, these patients are often emotionally devastated by the experience.

	Fillers will generally give much more improvement at a lower cost with less complications.  Particularly the hyaluronic acid products which can be dissolved if there are any problems.

Ravi Dahiya, MD · Answer

A laser treatment treatment can certainly be helpful for a woman in your age range. Of course the results are dependent both on your individual face and signs of aging as well as the laser being used. Our faces age in several ways, there is a loss of volume, ptosis (drooping) of the underlying tissues, and changes to the skin. A laser, such as the fractional CO2 laser can certainly rejuvenate the skin by removing age spots and stimulating collagen production. Of course the laser will not address the other mentioned aspects of aging. So again, a laser can result in some nice rejuvenating effects but it is not the total answer.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The laser is a simple cutting tool they can be used to perform her a variety of surgical procedures. It is not the best tool to perform a facelift with. Probably best to wait until your really ready to do a facelift, and look for a surgeon who has who has lots of experience

Herluf G. Lund, Jr, MD · Answer

Dear Neurotica,  Without  photos it is very difficult to give you any valid advice.  While the age of the patient is important in deciding what procedure/treatment would be best for her/him, age is only one part of the formula.  
	
	Regarding trademarked, copyrighted, or other similarly marketed procedures, my advice is simple.  Most are just marketing tools to try and make their technique seem somehow different than other procedures.  Be vary and don't choose based on the exciting name or logo.  Select based on the results you see in before and after results when you consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon.  Remember; the marketing directors never sleep!

	 

	Please send us some photos and the doctors can better help you select the treatments that may be best for you.

Does the Trademarked 'LazerLift' Really Work?

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