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In the fashion industry where creations are centered around the appeal of aesthetics and innovative expression, beauty is oftentimes an adjacent aspect of that process. Runway shows display apparel, shoes, accessories, and an entire amalgamation of what is deemed visually striking and moving to the audience. Similarly, the brilliant minds behind these products and spectacle show also encapsulate the energy and beauty of their brand.

American designer and business magnate Marc Jacobs is eccentric in his blatant display of personal life. The 58-year-old designer is positively transparent in broadcasting his day-to-day experience on social media and his 1.6 million Instagram followers are no stranger to witnessing his open nature. Recently, Jacobs shared his experience with cosmetic surgery on the public platform receiving much praise from his sizable audience. Following his commended Instagram post, Jacobs spoke to Vogue about his facelift experience and expressed his wish for more transparent conversations surrounding cosmetic surgery.

Jacobs recently uploaded a selfie showcasing himself following his facelift operation. With his head wrapped in bandages and surrounded by medical tubes, his caption read, “#LiveLoveLift.” His comment section was flooded with messages of enthusiasm, encouragement, and praise for his humorous honesty.

Following several years of Botox and fillers, Jacobs was advised to undergo under-the-knife surgery for more substantial results. New York plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Jacono performed the procedure on Jacobs and referred to the process as a “more modern” facelift. Using the advanced deep plane technique Jacono has been pioneering for over 13 years, lifting was only executed underneath the muscle layer leaving the skin attached clear of tightness for a smoother and softer lifted look.

Contrary to public discourse surrounding Jacob’s open display of his recent procedure, he claims, “I don’t even see it as an effort to be transparent. I’m doing what I normally do, which is I’m living my life and sharing it with anybody who is interested.” He continues, “Yes, I’m vain. I find there is no shame in being vain. I find there’s no shame in wanting attention. I find there’s no shame in getting dressed up and showing off a look. Self-care on every level, whether it’s spiritual self-care or meditation, are all part of wellness for me. The better I feel about myself, the better I’m able to be to others.”

Regardless of his personal experience and open display at such an acclaimed caliber, Jacobs has much to express in regard to the conversation surrounding the topic of aging and cosmetic procedures. He states, “There is this kind of standard and we’re very much a product of the world we live in.” He explains, “[cosmetic surgery] is this thing we do because the audience wants it, but the audience wants it because we do it. The thing that I find disappointing or difficult about that circle is that you could just remove the shame and be honest and straightforward.”

Ultimately, Jacobs emphasizes how there is no shame in personal preferences. “Youth has always been what people aesthetically want to achieve. There’s no disgrace in being old or looking old. There will always be products or treatments, and there will always be some people who prefer to use those products or things as a means to achieve the aesthetics that they prefer,” he explains. As a parting message, Jacobs says, “to start a dialogue is really what it’s about. just need to start a conversation, and then maybe that will have a resounding echo that helps people feel less ashamed. I don’t think there’s shame in being vain.”