What is the Difference between SMAS vs. Deep Plane Facelift

As people age, their soft tissue including skin and fat starts to lose elasticity and sag. This can cause wrinkles, fine lines around the mouth, eyes, jowls and neck. The face is one area that often shows noticeable signs of aging, including a loss of the heart-shaped contour and a shift towards a more squared appearance. To achieve a more youthful appearance, many people turn to facelifts as a solution. Rhytidectomy, or facelift surgery, remains the gold standard in treating facial tissue laxity.

However, there are different types of facelift surgeries that use various techniques to deliver the best possible outcome. Two popular facelift surgeries that are often compared are SMAS Facelift and Deep Plane Facelift. The SMAS Facelift, short for Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System Facelift, targets the shallow layer of facial muscles and the surrounding tissue. The SMAS layer is folded or reposition to lift the lower face and neck without ability to rejuvenate the midface (nasolabial folds).

The Deep Plane Facelift, on the other hand, targets the deeper layer of SMAS and releasing the retaining ligaments and lifting the SMAS to a higher position for a more vertical lift. The skin incision is similar to that of SMAS Facelift but during the Deep Plane Facelift releasing the retaining ligaments are crucial for repositioning of the SMAS. This allows for a more comprehensive that lift all the sagging soft tissues at once with much more natural looking results. This results in a more thorough facial correction but requires a longer recovery period than the SMAS Facelift. Another important difference is the longevity of results. Deep Plane Facelift typically provides longer-lasting results than the SMAS Facelift.

The SMAS Facelift is a less-invasive procedure, and patients can expect to resume daily activities in about one weeks. Deep Plane Facelift, on the other hand, requires a longer recovery time of about two to three weeks before returning to usual activities. In conclusion, both SMAS Facelift and Deep Plane Facelift are effective in achieving a more youthful appearance by tightening the facial muscles and tissues. However, Deep Plane Facelift is generally considered a better procedure that delivers longer-lasting results but requires a longer recovery period.

It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is most suitable for each patient’s specific needs and goals. Additionally, while these procedures have been shown to be safe and effective, they come with the potential risks and complications that may arise from any surgical procedure. It is therefore essential for patients to carefully consider the benefits and risks of each procedure before making a decision.

Furthermore, both procedures are performed under twilight sedation (IV) and local anesthesia without the need for intubation with general anesthesia.

Dr Kevin Sadati has performed over 5000 facelifts in his career and familiar with all types of facial rejuvenation. Contact us today!