A SMAS Facelift is a surgical facial rejuvenation procedure that targets both the skin and the underlying SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). By lifting deeper facial structures rather than tightening the skin alone, this technique helps achieve natural-looking, long-lasting facial rejuvenation.

What Is a SMAS Facelift?

A SMAS Facelift focuses on repositioning the SMAS layer, which plays a key role in facial support and expression. By lifting and securing this deeper layer, the procedure corrects sagging cheeks, jowls, and jawline laxity while reducing tension on the skin surface.

Benefits of a SMAS Facelift

A SMAS Facelift may provide several aesthetic benefits, including:

• Improved mid-face and lower-face lifting
• Reduction of jowls and facial sagging
• Enhanced jawline definition
• Natural facial contours without over-tightening
• Long-lasting surgical results

Who Is a SMAS Facelift Suitable For?

A SMAS Facelift may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have moderate facial sagging and skin laxity
• Experience jowls or blurred jawline definition
• Want longer-lasting results than surface-level facelifts
• Prefer natural correction over aggressive tightening
• Are in generally good health

It may not be necessary for individuals with only very mild aging changes.

Areas Addressed by a SMAS Facelift

A SMAS Facelift typically targets:

• Mid-face and cheek area
• Jowl region
• Jawline contour
• Lower-face skin laxity
• Nasolabial fold softening

This approach emphasizes structural lifting rather than surface skin tightening.

How a SMAS Facelift Procedure Works

The surgical process generally includes:

1. Comprehensive facial assessment
2. Surgical planning based on SMAS laxity
3. Discreet incisions around the ears and hairline
4. Elevation and repositioning of the SMAS layer
5. Removal of excess skin and careful closure

⏱ Procedure time: 3–5 hours
🩹 Recovery varies by individual

SMAS Facelift vs Traditional Facelift

A SMAS Facelift differs from a traditional facelift:

• Targets deeper facial support structures
• Reduces tension on the skin surface
• Produces more natural and durable results
• Better addresses moderate facial sagging

Traditional facelifts may rely more heavily on skin tightening alone.

Recovery After a SMAS Facelift

Recovery typically includes:

• Swelling and bruising during the first 1–2 weeks
• Gradual improvement in facial contour
• Return to daily activities as healing progresses
• Continued refinement of results over several months

Recovery timelines depend on surgical extent and individual healing.

How Long SMAS Facelift Results Last

SMAS Facelift results are generally long-lasting, often maintaining improvement for many years. While aging continues, facial structure remains more youthful and defined compared to pre-surgery appearance.

SMAS Facelift Aftercare Guidelines

After surgery, general recommendations may include:

• Keeping the head elevated during early recovery
• Avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks
• Following incision and wound-care instructions
• Protecting healing areas from sun exposure

Frequently Asked Questions About SMAS Facelift

Will a SMAS facelift look natural?

When properly planned, results appear natural and balanced without an overly tight appearance.

Is a SMAS facelift different from a deep plane facelift?

Yes. A SMAS facelift lifts the SMAS layer separately, while a deep plane facelift lifts deeper tissues as a single unit.

Can a SMAS facelift be combined with other procedures?

It is often combined with neck lift, eyelid surgery, or brow lift for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.