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SMAS vs. Deep Plane Facelift: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Procedure

Facial aging is a natural process, but advancements in cosmetic surgery provide effective ways to restore a youthful appearance. For patients considering a facelift, the two most advanced techniques available today are the SMAS facelift and the deep plane facelift. While both approaches target facial sagging and rejuvenation, they differ in technique, recovery time, and outcomes.

Dr. Ali Sajjadian, a triple board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, CA, explains the distinctions between SMAS and deep plane facelifts, helping you determine the best option for your aesthetic goals.

Understanding the Aging Process and Facelift Surgery

As we age, the skin loses elasticity, facial volume diminishes, and the underlying structural support weakens. Wrinkles, deep folds, jowls, and sagging skin become more pronounced, particularly in the lower face and neck.

Facelift surgery (rhytidectomy) is designed to address these concerns by repositioning and tightening the deeper layers of facial tissue, creating a refreshed and youthful appearance. The two most popular facelift techniques—SMAS facelift and deep plane facelift—differ in how they reposition these deep layers. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision.

What Is the SMAS Facelift?

The SMAS facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), which is a fibrous layer of tissue beneath the skin that connects facial muscles. This layer plays a significant role in facial sagging as it weakens over time. The procedure involves lifting and repositioning this layer, often combined with excess skin removal.

How the SMAS Facelift Works

  • The surgeon makes incisions around the ears and possibly along the hairline.
  • The SMAS layer is lifted, tightened, and repositioned.
  • Excess skin is trimmed to refine the results.
  • The incisions are meticulously closed to minimize visible scarring.

Advantages of a SMAS Facelift

  • Natural-looking results by targeting deeper layers rather than just pulling the skin.
  • Long-lasting effects, typically 10 to 15 years, depending on lifestyle and genetics.
  • Less invasive than a deep plane facelift, leading to a slightly shorter recovery time.
  • Effective for mild to moderate facial sagging and volume loss.

Limitations of the SMAS Facelift

  • May not provide dramatic improvement in the midface and nasolabial folds.
  • The tension applied to the SMAS layer could result in a less comprehensive lift than the deep plane facelift.
  • Not ideal for individuals with significant facial sagging or deep folds.

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that goes beyond the SMAS layer to lift and reposition deeper facial structures. By releasing and repositioning the ligaments beneath the SMAS layer, the deep plane facelift achieves a more comprehensive and long-lasting result.

How the Deep Plane Facelift Works

  • Incisions are made similarly to the SMAS facelift, but dissection extends deeper.
  • The deeper ligaments and facial muscles are lifted as a single unit.
  • The release of tension in key areas allows for a smoother, more natural repositioning of facial tissues.
  • Excess skin is removed, and incisions are closed carefully.

Advantages of a Deep Plane Facelift

  • Dramatic and natural-looking results, especially in the midface, nasolabial folds, and jowls.
  • Longer-lasting effects, often 15 or more years, since it repositions the deeper facial structures.
  • Less risk of a pulled or “windswept” appearance due to the natural repositioning of facial tissues.
  • Improves midface volume loss, which is not fully addressed by the SMAS facelift.

Limitations of the Deep Plane Facelift

  • More invasive than the SMAS facelift, leading to a slightly longer recovery period.
  • Requires expert surgical skills and experience, as it involves working around key facial nerves.
  • Typically, it is a higher cost than the SMAS facelift due to the complexity of the procedure.

SMAS vs. Deep Plane Facelift: Key Differences

Target Area

  • SMAS Facelift: Targets the superficial SMAS layer
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Repositions deeper ligaments and muscle layers

Results

  • SMAS Facelift: Effective for moderate sagging
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Provides a more dramatic, comprehensive lift

Longevity

  • SMAS Facelift: Lasts approximately 10 to 15 years
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Lasts 15 or more years

Recovery Time

  • SMAS Facelift: Around 2 to 3 weeks
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Around 3 to 4 weeks

Midface Rejuvenation

  • SMAS Facelift: Limited improvement
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Significant improvement

Complexity

  • SMAS Facelift: Less invasive
  • Deep Plane Facelift: More advanced technique

Risk of Nerve Injury

  • SMAS Facelift: Low risk
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Slightly higher risk (minimized with expert care)

Cost

  • SMAS Facelift: Generally lower
  • Deep Plane Facelift: Higher due to complexity and surgical skills required

Which Facelift Is Right for You?

Choosing between an SMAS facelift and a deep plane facelift depends on your unique facial structure, aging concerns, and desired results.

You May Be a Good Candidate for an SMAS Facelift If:

  • You have mild to moderate facial sagging.
    • Your main concerns are jowls and lower face laxity.
    • You prefer a less invasive option with a faster recovery.

You May Be a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift If:

  • You have significant facial aging, deep nasolabial folds, and sagging.
  • You want midface rejuvenation and a longer-lasting result.
  • You are comfortable with a slightly longer recovery time.

Recovery and Aftercare

Both facelifts require proper aftercare to ensure optimal results:

  • Expect swelling and bruising for the first 1 to 2 weeks
    • Follow post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Sajjadian
    • Avoid strenuous activities for at least 4 weeks
    • Attend all follow-up appointments for proper healing assessment
    • Results improve as swelling subsides over 3 to 6 months

Why Choose Dr. Ali Sajjadian for Your Facelift?

Dr. Ali Sajjadian is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon known for his expertise in advanced facelift techniques. His meticulous approach ensures natural-looking, long-lasting results that enhance your unique beauty. With a reputation for excellence in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sajjadian prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

If you’re considering a facelift, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Sajjadian to explore your best options.

Schedule a consultation to take the next step in your facial rejuvenation journey!

Learn More

Both SMAS and deep plane facelifts offer outstanding facial rejuvenation results. While the SMAS facelift is an excellent choice for moderate aging concerns, the deep plane facelift provides a more dramatic transformation. Understanding the differences between these procedures is key to making the best choice for your aesthetic goals.

Dr. Ali Sajjadian and his expert team in Newport Beach, CA, are here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us at (949) 515-0550 or complete our online form today to begin your journey to discover which facelift option is right for you!

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