Plastic Surgery News, a publication of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, recently published an article describing the unethical practices of well known company called Lifestyle Lift. According to the article, this company was “charged with ‘astroturfing’ - publishing fake, online reviews of its procedure using employees who posed as independent consumers to express their ’satisfaction’ with the company and it’s product.” In fact, Andrew Cuomo, the Attorney General of New York stated on his website (http://www1.plasticsurgery.org/ebusiness4/OnlineCourse/CourseInfo.aspx?Id=12791) “this company’s attempt to generate business by duping consumers was cynical, manipulative and illegal.”

I am posting this blog because I am often asked by my patients seeking facial rejuvenation about the Lifestyle Lift procedure. In plastic surgery, as in life, you get what you pay for. While we are all looking to save money these days, your body and health are the few things which you only get one of and simply searching out the least expensive alternative can often have distastrous consequences. Among board-certified (American Board of Plastic Surgery) plastic surgeons, this company has a dubious reputation as one that refuses to do state exactly which techniques their physicians use to achieve their results, thereby potentially opening themselves to criticism as those of us who publish in scientific, peer-reviewed journals do all the time. Therefore, the company’s methods are suspect from the outset and stories like the one above are not that surprising. Buyer, and patient beware!

Hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating is a problem that can be a real source of frustration and embarrassment. Until now, when the usual deodorant and antipersperants have failed, the only next option was an operation to physically remove the offending sweat glands. Now, however, it has been realized that BOTOX (yes that BOTOX) can be used to treat this problem with great effectiveness. The overwhelming majority of patients treated in this way had a significant decrease in the sweat produced by these glands (usually in the armpit) that lasted over 6 months. Patients can be treated in the office with minimal downtime and the procedure is minimally invasive and uncomfortable. If you would like to learn more about this exciting new treatment, please feel free to call the office.

Ziv M. Peled, MD

As promised, more info on Dysport. Basically, this new product is the identical substance as that found in Botox - Botulinum Toxin type A. It carries pretty much the same indications as Botox does according to the FDA. It is formulated slightly differently which basically accounts for the minimal differences in results with Dysport. So far, much of the published clinical cosmetic experience with Dysport is in the form of a few initial studies. The bottom line from these studies is that results with Dysport are very similar to those with Botox. Dysport has a slightly quicker onset of action, but not significantly so. In equivalent doses, the effects of Dysport lasted a bit longer than those with Botox, but again the results were not significantly different. Finally, there were no significant differences in side effects between the two products. The upside of Dysport is that it is a bit less expensive than Botox at present and with the initial promotion from Ipsen BioPharm (the company that makes Dysport), the prices are even sweeter. The only real downside at present is that there is relatively little experience with Dysport as compared with Botox, so theoretically you are taking a small chance with a newer product, although the risks are minor.

Many people have been asking me about the newest Botulinum Toxin available for cosmetic use. It’s name is Dysport and later I will be posting more information about this exciting new product which we now offer in our office.

Dr. Peled