Category Archives: THE LIST

A Truly Otherworldly Facial Experience: Stacy Cox & Retrouvé Skincare

April 10, 2025

I’ve written about facials for years, tried a myriad of treatments, and experienced countless skin care brands. But nothing—nothing—compared to the otherworldly experience I had with Stacy Cox and the Retrouvé VIP skincare facial. This was more than just a facial; it was a complete sensory journey that left me feeling physically rejuvenated, emotionally lifted, and spiritually aligned.

Meet Stacy Cox: Skincare Expert Extraordinaire

Stacy’s journey into skincare started as early as 13, experimenting with lotions and potions in her mom’s kitchen. Fast forward 26 years, and she’s built a skincare empire with Stacy Cox Beauty, blending her deep knowledge of psychology, business acumen, and passion for skincare. Her approach is unique, combining clinical treatments with a profoundly relaxing environment. And after my session, it’s clear that Stacy’s expertise isn’t just about flawless skin—it’s about enhancing the entire mind-body experience.

Stacy’s work is all about creating a balanced, holistic facial experience. Her facials are clinical but deeply relaxing, ensuring you not only leave with glowing skin but also a sense of inner peace. Her signature treatment? The Retrouvé VIP facial.

Stacy Cox’s hidden sanctuary in the valley is pure magic. Tucked away in a serene guest house, this place feels like a well-kept secret—where elegance meets tranquility in a way that’s almost otherworldly. From the soft, natural light that floods the space to the carefully curated vibe that feels like it was designed just for you, every inch of this place is meant for letting go. It’s the ultimate escape, a space that instantly transports you into a world where beauty and peace aren’t just concepts—they’re a full-on vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind, rejuvenate, and experience skincare that’s as much about the mind and soul as it is about your skin.

When Stacy launches into the Retrouvé VIP facial, it’s not just the luxury skincare that transports you—it’s the epic playlist she’s curated to take you on a sonic journey. From the smooth, soul-soothing tones of Lo Wolf’s Be Like Water to the uplifting rhythm of Light Up by John Pattern, Stacy’s playlist creates the perfect backdrop for your skincare experience. It’s a mix of chill, ethereal vibes that complement the transformative power of Retrouvé’s products, enhancing every moment of your facial. Trust me, it’s the kind of playlist that elevates the whole experience—making you feel like you’re floating in a world where beauty, science, and music merge effortlessly.

The Retrouvé Experience: Beauty, Science, and Spirituality in Perfect Harmony

The Retrouvé VIP facial is a love letter to skincare, combining the best of beauty, art, and science. This session felt like it transcended mere skincare. As Stacy worked her magic, I was transported into a world where aesthetics met spiritual well-being. Aromatherapy, chakra balancing, a custom playlist, and even poetry readings—it all came together in a beautifully cohesive experience. No joke – I woke up from her spell – in TEARS.

The standout products in this facial are from Retrouvé, a brand that has redefined luxury skincare. Founded by Jami and Klaus Heidegger, the masterminds behind Kiehl’s, Retrouvé is a culmination of four generations of skincare expertise. They’ve created a line that merges cutting-edge technology with nature’s finest ingredients to deliver transformative results for skin texture, hydration, and anti-aging.

Retrouvé: The Legacy Behind the Luxury

Retrouvé is all about results, not just hype. After the sale of Kiehl’s, Jami set out to develop skincare that went beyond the ordinary—skincare that would repair and preserve the skin using the most effective anti-aging ingredients available. She combined decades of expertise with a commitment to quality ingredients, creating products that truly deliver on their promises.

One of the standout features of Retrouvé is their commitment to ethically sourced, sustainably grown ingredients. Their products are made in small batches, harvested directly from their family farm, Palms of Malibu, ensuring maximum quality and efficacy. The avocado extract used in their Luminous Cleansing Elixir and Dermal Defense Hand Cream is just one example of the brand’s dedication to using only the best ingredients.

And it’s not just about the ingredients; Retrouvé has perfected the art of packaging too. Their proprietary RTAPS313™ system ensures that each product is protected from air and light, preserving its potency for maximum effectiveness.

Why Retrouvé Is Different: Science Meets Nature

At the core of Retrouvé’s philosophy is the belief that skincare should be built on science—not marketing gimmicks or celebrity endorsements. The brand has eliminated the clutter of unnecessary products and focused on creating a streamlined line of essentials that deliver visible, lasting results. It’s about respecting both the science of skincare and the natural world around us.

Retrouvé isn’t just a brand—it’s a commitment to enhancing your skin’s natural beauty, helping you mitigate the appearance of aging, and unveiling your most radiant self at any age.

The Verdict: A Skincare Experience Like No Other

This facial was, without a doubt, one of the best skincare experiences I’ve ever had. The combination of Stacy’s expert touch and Retrouvé’s powerful, science-backed products left my skin feeling more hydrated, radiant, and youthful than I thought possible. But what truly set it apart was the emotional and spiritual upliftment that came with it—something I’ve never experienced in a facial before.

If you’re looking for more than just a skin treatment, if you want to be transported—mentally, emotionally, and physically—then I highly recommend booking a Retrouvé VIP facial with Stacy. It’s not just a facial; it’s an experience that will leave you glowing inside and out.

Where luxury meets legacy, Retrouvé delivers results that speak for themselves. If you haven’t experienced it yet, it’s time to elevate your skincare routine.

Follow Retrouvé and Stacy Cox Beauty to explore the magic of skincare that transcends the ordinary.

labeled : Facials - GROOM - THE LIST | LEAVE A COMMENT

Dr. Daniel Gould: A Groundbreaking Approach to Facial Rejuvenation

“Patient-Centered Care. Exceptional Experience”

In the world of cosmetic surgery, where surgeons often proclaim their “artistry” and “aesthetic vision,” Dr. Daniel Gould is the refreshing exception. Forget the “Picasso” comparisons—Dr. Gould is all about precision, science, and results that make you feel like your best self. While others might lean into grand artistic metaphors, he stands firm as a doctor and a scientist, and this approach has earned him the respect of Beverly Hills’ elite. Enter the “Reset” Facelift—a procedure that’s more about restoring your natural, youthful structure than crafting a new, unrecognizable face. So, here’s why I’m 100% booking my facelift with him.

The “Reset” Facelift: Restoring, Not Overhauling

When you think of a facelift, you might imagine tight, pulled skin or a complete transformation. Dr. Gould flips the script. His facelift is called “The Reset” for a reason—it’s about rejuvenating your face to its pre-aging state, not creating something unrecognizable.

Aging is about more than just wrinkles or sagging skin—Dr. Gould breaks it down: it’s about deep, anatomical changes. Over time, the ligaments that once held your face firm start to loosen, causing the skin and soft tissues to droop. That’s when you get sagging around the jawline, under the eyes, and around the neck.

Dr. Gould’s “Reset” Facelift addresses these changes by repositioning and re-suspending your facial ligaments to their youthful positions. The result? A refreshed, natural look without that over-tightened, fake appearance.

This technique goes deeper than traditional facelifts, which often only tighten the skin. Dr. Gould’s approach is to restore the facial ligaments—your face’s real support structures—so you look naturally refreshed. No unnatural pulls here, just subtle and effective restoration.

One of the best parts? Dr. Gould customizes each procedure. Every face is different, so why should every facelift be the same? His approach takes into account your unique anatomy and age, so the result is always harmonious and tailored to you. Whether you’re tackling sagging along the jawline, bags under the eyes, or just that general loss of youthful volume, Dr. Gould’s Reset facelift gives you the rejuvenation you want without drastic change.

Science Over “Art”: The Gould Method

Many plastic surgeons describe themselves as “artists,” claiming their success is all about their innate ability to sculpt and enhance. While artistry has its place, Dr. Gould is grounded in science. His philosophy is rooted in years of medical training and a deep understanding of the biological mechanisms of aging.

With a Ph.D. in Bioengineering, Dr. Gould isn’t just guessing about the aging process—he understands it at a molecular and structural level. This scientific foundation is what allows him to give patients natural results, based on anatomy, not on intuition or artistic ideals. He doesn’t pull or stretch skin unnecessarily. Instead, he realigns the underlying tissues to restore the face to its youthful structure.

This commitment to precision ensures that every step of the facelift process is carefully calculated. For instance, when repositioning deeper tissues, Dr. Gould takes the natural movement and function of facial muscles and ligaments into account. This prevents a frozen or tight look and preserves the face’s natural expressiveness.

Dr. Gould’s dedication to scientific excellence doesn’t end in the operating room. He’s constantly researching new techniques, staying ahead of the curve with ongoing education for both himself and his team. This ensures that his patients receive the best care, customized to their specific needs.

Aftercare: Because Recovery Matters

What truly sets Dr. Gould apart is his commitment to aftercare. Facelifts require healing, and Dr. Gould believes recovery is just as critical as the surgery itself. He’s a firm believer that great results aren’t just about the procedure—they come from how your body heals afterward. He understands that a successful facelift is as much about recovery as it is about the procedure itself.

That’s why he takes a hands-on approach to ensure his patients heal properly and quickly. From the moment surgery is complete, Dr. Gould provides personalized recovery plans tailored to each patient’s needs. He offers 24/7 concierge nursing support during the critical recovery stages, so you always have expert guidance when you need it.

But it doesn’t stop there—Dr. Gould also offers luxurious recovery suites to ensure comfort while you heal, making the entire experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. His focus on minimizing scarring, managing swelling, and reducing bruising helps patients recover with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

For Dr. Gould, the aftercare process is not an afterthought; it’s an essential part of achieving the best results. After meeting with him, I was immediately impressed by how thorough and thoughtful he was in both the procedure and recovery stages. Unlike other surgeons who might rush through consultations, Dr. Gould takes the time to listen to concerns and ensures every detail is covered, promising a natural, youthful restoration rather than an unrealistic transformation. This level of attention and care truly sets him apart.

The Bottom Line: Trusting Dr. Gould

With Dr. Gould, you’re not just getting a facelift. You’re getting a procedure that’s backed by science, precision, and a commitment to your individual needs. His Reset Facelift is changing the game in cosmetic surgery, offering a scientifically-backed approach to reversing the effects of aging—without the drastic, artificial transformations you often see in the industry.

From the deep understanding of facial anatomy to personalized aftercare that ensures optimal recovery, Dr. Gould offers a facelift experience that feels as good as it looks. For me, it’s clear—Dr. Gould is the surgeon I’m trusting for my facelift, and I can’t wait to see the results.

EDUCATION

  • Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • University of Southern California Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program
  • Fellow American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (Grant Stevens and Jay Calvert)
  • Baylor College of Medicine (BCM)
  • University of California Los Angeles
  • ACLS Certified Provider (HCHD)
  • BLS Certified Provider (HCHD)
  • LA County Spanish translator (2013-present)
  • Rice University, Houston, TX    Ph.D. 2011 – PhD in Bioengineering  – Thesis: “Tailoring Angiogenesis in vivo” – Advisor: Mary Dickinson, PhD, Jennifer West PhD
  • University of California Los Angeles, Westwood, CA    B.S. 2006 – B.S. in Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics -Research under Joan S. Valentine PhD in Biochemistry

    120 S. Spalding Dr. Suite 330,
    Beverly Hills CA 90212

labeled : ANTI-AGING + PROCEDURES + MEDICAL AESTHETICS - BODY - FACE + EYES - Plastic Surgeon - THE LIST | LEAVE A COMMENT

Glow Goals: My BBL Laser Experience at Kate Somerville on Melrose Place

January 21, 2025

Stepping into the Kate Somerville Clinic on Melrose Place is like entering a haven of beauty, tranquility, and expertise. Nestled in one of the chicest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, the clinic boasts a blend of modern luxury and welcoming warmth. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by sleek interiors, plush seating, and the soothing aroma of perfectly curated skincare. It’s not just a treatment destination—it’s an experience.

As someone who has spent years chasing the elusive glow and trying every serum, mask, and peel under the sun, I was excited to try the BBL (BroadBand Light) Laser, also known as Forever Young BBL. This innovative light therapy is a favorite for its ability to target a laundry list of skin concerns: age spots, sun damage, redness, rosacea, and even acne. Kate Somerville’s team recommended it for my combination of mild hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, promising a refreshed and more youthful complexion.

The Treatment: What to Expect

After a thorough consultation, the amazing Jill walked me through the process. Kate Somerville’s clinic uses the latest BBL HERO technology, which is designed for quicker, more effective treatments with minimal downtime. The advanced cooling system promised comfort, and the machine’s precision was impressive, thanks to its Skin Positioning System™ (SPS) for real-time accuracy.

Once I was settled on the plush treatment bed (complete with a cozy blanket, a gel was applied to my skin to prepare it for the laser. The treatment itself felt like tiny snaps of heat, but nothing unbearable—more like a warm flick than a sting. Jill adjusted the settings for each area, ensuring the perfect balance between effective results and comfort.

In just under 20 minutes, my face was treated. Boom.

Post-treatment, my skin amazing. I was advised to avoid direct sun exposure and load up on sunscreen for the next two weeks, which, honestly, should be my rule regardless.

The Results

Over the following week, I can expect my skin to transform: dark spots lifted, redness reduced, and brighter, clearer complexion. Not to mention –  smoother and firmer, thanks to the increased collagen production stimulated by the BBL. They suggest to do a series – and YES I AM!!

Why Kate Somerville?

Aside from the undeniable expertise of their technicians, the Kate Somerville Clinic is a haven of relaxation and luxury. Every detail is meticulously curated, from the plush waiting areas to the personalized aftercare instructions. The clinic’s reputation as one of LA’s top skincare destinations is well-deserved.

For anyone looking to invest in their skin, I can’t recommend the BBL treatment at Kate Somerville enough. Whether you’re battling sun damage or just want to rewind the clock on your skin, this treatment is a game-changer. And let’s face it—who doesn’t want that Melrose Place glow?

Dr. Guy Massry: The Gold Standard in Oculoplastic Surgery

December 16, 2024

When it comes to eyes—and I mean really understanding the complexity, art, and science of rejuvenating them—Dr. Guy Massry is it. The one. The aesthetic Michelangelo for your periocular area (think under-eyes, lids, brows). If you’re even remotely considering any cosmetic work around the eyes, he’s the guy. Period. As an aesthetics concierge, I’ve seen my fair share of surgeons and results, and trust me when I say no one delivers the level of expertise, precision, and natural beauty like Dr. Massry. He’s also an absolute gem—warm, kind, open, honest, a truly fascinating guy, (no pun) –  the kind of person you could happily chat with for hours. But good luck with that—just getting a consultation is no small feat, let alone booking a procedure. He’s got a waitlist that stretches nearly a year. Sorry, not sorry!

Here’s some intel on his groundbreaking techniques, and his approach to the under-eye area (including filler and fat grafting—more on that later). Plus, if you’re like me and love a good legacy, Dr. Massry’s story is backed by a family of medical brilliance.

Dr. Massry is one of LA’s top oculoplastic surgeons—a board-certified master who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the eyelids and the surrounding areas. His practice is hyper-focused, meaning he doesn’t do “everything”; he does eyes… and he does them better than anyone else.

Here’s why that matters: the eyes are delicate, and the skin around them is some of the thinnest and most complex to treat. You want someone whose life’s work revolves around this very area—someone who obsesses over millimeters and subtleties. That’s Dr. Massry.

Dr. Massry completed his medical education and specialized training at the University of Southern California (USC), where he went deep into the field of oculoplastic surgery. Over the years, he’s become the go-to expert in:

  • Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): The art of lifting, tightening, and rejuvenating the lids—upper, lower, or both—to create natural, refreshed results.
  • Endoscopic Brow and Forehead Lifts: A minimally invasive approach to lifting brows and smoothing the forehead without overdoing it.

Dr. Massry has mastered and perfected the art of the endoscopic brow lift, a minimally invasive technique that elevates and repositions the brows to achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance. By using tiny incisions hidden within the hairline and advanced endoscopic technology, he is able to deliver natural-looking results with minimal scarring and downtime.

Unlike older, more invasive brow lift methods that often left patients looking “surprised” or overdone, and with temporal scars, Dr. Massry’s refined approach focuses on subtle, harmonious rejuvenation that enhances the face without altering its expression. His meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of facial anatomy have made him the go-to expert for this procedure, especially for those seeking elegant, lasting results.

The way he customizes these treatments to your face—instead of following a cookie-cutter approach—is part of what makes him exceptional.

He’s Not Just a Surgeon—He’s the Surgeon That Teaches Surgeons

One of the things I love most about Dr. Massry is his reputation among his peers. When other surgeons are looking to refine their techniques or learn the best practices in oculoplastics, they turn to his work. He’s written some of the most referenced textbooks in the field, including:

  • Pearls and Pitfalls in Cosmetic Oculoplastic Surgery (2009): This book is basically a masterclass in achieving perfect results while avoiding common missteps in cosmetic eyelid surgery.
  • Master Techniques in Blepharoplasty and Periorbital Rejuvenation (2011): Co-edited with renowned specialists, this book is the bible for anyone serious about facial rejuvenation around the eyes.

When a surgeon’s work is shaping the next generation of experts, you know you’re in exceptional hands.

Under-Eyes: Fillers vs. Fat Grafting (Dr. Massry’s Take)

Here’s the scoop—and why I trust his opinion more than anyone’s:

  • Fillers Under the Eyes: Dr. Massry approaches fillers with a surgeon’s eye for precision and balance. He uses hyaluronic acid fillers to address under-eye hollows only when it makes sense. Fillers here can be tricky; placed poorly, they can look puffy, lumpy, or create that bluish tint (Tyndall effect) we all dread. Dr. Massry’s philosophy? Less is more, and technique is everything.
  • Fat Grafting: For those who need longer-term volume restoration, Dr. Massry considers fat grafting. This involves harvesting a small amount of fat from another part of your body and strategically placing it under the eyes. While it’s a great option for some patients, Dr. Massry is selective—not everyone is an ideal candidate because fat can resorb unevenly.

The takeaway: If you’re debating filler or fat grafting, he’s the one you want guiding you. His expertise ensures natural results, not overfilled or unbalanced outcomes.

The Legacy: Medicine Runs in the Family

Another incredible thing I learned about his –  he comes from a lineage of brilliance. His father, Dr. Shaul G. Massry, is a world-renowned nephrologist and academic. Dr. Shaul Massry served as Professor Emeritus at USC and was a pioneer in kidney medicine—talk about a family committed to advancing health and science. The precision and dedication clearly run in the bloodline.

In the dynamic field of oculoplastic surgery, Dr. Guy G. Massry distinguishes himself through a blend of surgical precision, innovative techniques, and a profound commitment to patient education. His contributions have not only advanced the specialty but have also set a benchmark for excellence in patient care. For those seeking oculoplastic procedures in Los Angeles, Dr. Massry remains the quintessential choice, embodying a legacy of medical distinction and compassionate practice.

I’m always on the hunt for the best specialists to guide my clients to. Dr. Massry isn’t just the best oculoplastic surgeon in LA—he’s the one surgeons go to when they want to learn. He blends surgical expertise with an artist’s touch, ensuring results that are refreshed, balanced, and natural.

Dr. Massry’s philosophy is simple: it’s expensive to be cheap. While his prices may be among the highest in town, they reflect his unparalleled expertise and precision—qualities that countless patients discover the hard way when they come to him for revisions after opting for less experienced surgeons or bargain procedures that didn’t deliver.

Your eyes are your focal point—they’re delicate, expressive, and deserve the best care. Choosing the right oculoplastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to facial aesthetics, and for me, Dr. Guy Massry is the gold standard. If you’re looking to restore confidence and enhance your natural beauty, you know where to go.

For more on Dr. Massry, check out his work here and start your journey to next-level rejuvenation. Your eyes will thank you.

See his Before/Afters here.

150 N. Robertson Blvd. Suite 314 Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Beverly Hills Medical Plaza
Ph (310) 657-4302 | Fax (310) 657-4322 | [email protected]

For Extra Credit Or Just to Nerd Out On Science:      

Dr. Massry has authored several influential textbooks that are essential reads for anyone delving into oculoplastic surgery or wanting to nerd out (me!)

Here are some of his notable works:

Pearls and Pitfalls in Cosmetic Oculoplastic Surgery
This book offers invaluable insights into achieving optimal outcomes in cosmetic eyelid surgery, emphasizing lessons learned and potential challenges.

Springer Link

Master Techniques in Blepharoplasty and Periorbital Rejuvenation
A comprehensive, multi-specialty textbook and surgical atlas on blepharoplasty and eyelid reconstruction, presenting multiple techniques by leading experts in plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, and oculoplastic surgery.

Amazon

Brow and Upper Eyelid Surgery: Multispecialty Approach
This detailed review covers all aspects of forehead, eyebrow, and eyelid surgery, edited by Dr. Massry and Dr. Babak Azizzadeh.

Dr. Massry

Lower Lid and Midface: Multispecialty Approach
Dedicated to midface and lower face rejuvenation techniques, this text brings together experts from plastic surgery, oculoplastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, and dermatology to discuss anatomy, techniques, procedure planning, complications, and outcomes.

A Visit with Dr. Gregory Mueller: The 411 on MyEllevate and Why It’s Revolutionizing Neck Rejuvenation

December 3, 2024

Dr. Gregory Mueller, aka The Neck Doctor, is one of those rare LA plastic surgeons whose name alone carries a certain gravitas. Known for his expertise in facial aesthetics and neck rejuvenation, he’s also the visionary inventor behind MyEllevate, a minimally invasive procedure that’s turning the world of plastic surgery on its axis. Naturally, I had to book a consultation with him, not just to learn about this groundbreaking procedure but also to see if I could be its poster child. Spoiler: I’m not. But the conversation we had was illuminating for anyone curious about the new frontier of neck and jawline enhancement.

The Meeting: Getting the MyEllevate Lowdown

Dr. Mueller’s office feels more like a chic art gallery than a medical practice—a subtle nod to his reputation as a surgeon with both technical and artistic prowess. From the moment I sat down, it was clear he has a deep passion for educating his patients. We dove headfirst into MyEllevate, his baby, and a procedure he describes as “neck contouring for the modern age.”

“This is for the patient who doesn’t need or want a full neck lift but is ready to say goodbye to early signs of aging in the neck and jawline,” Dr. Mueller explained, his enthusiasm palpable. He described MyEllevate as a hybrid between a surgical procedure and a non-surgical treatment—think the precision of surgery without the heavy downtime.

What truly floored me, however, were the before-and-after photos. Dr. Mueller pulled out a portfolio showcasing transformations that seemed almost magical—tightened, sculpted jawlines, lifted necks, and a striking sense of rejuvenation. And here’s the kicker: it works just as beautifully for men as it does for women. The natural-looking results are ideal for men who may want subtle enhancements without looking “done.”

CHECK OUT THE BEFORE AND AFTERS HERE

Dr. Mueller’s Background: The Scientist-Artist Hybrid

Dr. Mueller isn’t just a surgeon; he’s a pioneer. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, he specializes in facial aesthetics, earning a reputation for combining cutting-edge technology with an artist’s eye. His invention of MyEllevate came from a desire to bridge the gap between non-invasive treatments and full-on surgery, creating an option for patients seeking something more precise yet less invasive.

His work has been featured in numerous medical journals, and he is a regular speaker at conferences where he trains other surgeons in the MyEllevate technique. In a city teeming with cosmetic professionals, Dr. Mueller’s name stands out as synonymous with innovation and excellence.

FOLLOW DR. MUELLER ON IG AND FALL IN LOVE

What Is MyEllevate?

At its core, MyEllevate is all about neck support. Over time, the platysma muscles in the neck start to loosen, causing sagging and that dreaded “turkey neck.” MyEllevate uses a patented ICLED® light-guided suture system to thread a supportive matrix underneath the skin, essentially creating an internal scaffold. This suturing technique lifts and tightens the area while leaving the overlying skin intact.

Unlike traditional neck lifts, which involve cutting and removing excess skin, MyEllevate targets the muscle layer, reshaping and redefining the jawline and neck contour without an incision under the chin. As Dr. Mueller puts it, “It’s like a hammock for your neck, giving you the structural support you had in your twenties.”

The Procedure: Science Meets Artistry

The beauty of MyEllevate lies in its minimally invasive nature. Dr. Mueller walks through the steps:

  1. Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure a pain-free experience.
  2. ICLED® Technology: A light-guided wand helps Dr. Mueller precisely place sutures beneath the skin.
  3. Threading the Sutures: Using this tool, he creates a lattice that lifts and holds the platysma muscles in place.
  4. Finishing Touches: Depending on the patient’s needs, liposuction or energy-based skin tightening (think FaceTite or Morpheus8) can be combined for added contouring.

Perfect Candidate or Not?

So, who is MyEllevate for? According to Dr. Mueller, it’s ideal for patients in their late thirties to early fifties with mild-to-moderate skin laxity and muscle sagging. It’s not a replacement for a facelift or neck lift but is perfect for someone who wants a subtler refresh without the scars or recovery time of a more invasive surgery.

Here’s where things got personal. After a thorough assessment, Dr. Mueller gently broke it to me: “You’d be better suited for a facelift.” The honesty was refreshing. He pointed out that while MyEllevate can perform miracles for structural issues, I also have some excess skin that would need to be removed to achieve the best results.

This, he explained, is why consultations are critical—every face is unique, and no single procedure is a catch-all. His candor reaffirmed his commitment to delivering results that are right for the patient, not just trendy.

Downtime & Results

If you’re a candidate for MyEllevate, here’s what you can expect post-procedure:

  • Downtime: Minimal. Most patients are back to work within a few days, with some mild swelling and bruising lasting up to a week.
  • Results: Immediate improvement in contour, with final results revealing themselves after three to six months as swelling subsides and collagen production kicks in.

Dr. Mueller emphasized that while MyEllevate can be life-changing for the right person, it’s not a magic wand. “It’s a tool in our arsenal,” he said, noting that combining it with other treatments often yields the most natural and youthful outcomes.

While MyEllevate wasn’t the right fit for me, I walked away impressed. This is the kind of innovation we need in beauty—solutions tailored to modern lifestyles and the nuanced needs of individual patients. For anyone teetering on the edge of committing to surgery but not quite ready for the downtime or invasiveness, MyEllevate is a genius alternative.

And let’s not forget the men, who are often underserved in cosmetic conversations. The subtlety and precision of MyEllevate make it an incredible option for guys who want to sharpen their jawline or reverse early aging in a way that’s practically undetectable.

As for me, I’ll likely be back in Dr. Mueller’s office, this time discussing the finer points of a facelift. But in a city obsessed with beauty shortcuts, MyEllevate feels like the real deal—a thoughtful, science-backed approach to looking your best without skipping a beat.

436 North Bedford Dr. Suite 212
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

310-273-9800