What Is a SMAS Facelift?
The SMAS facelift is the most common facelift technique. Here is an explanation of what it involves.
The SMAS facelift β named after the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, the layer of muscle and tissue below the skin β is the most widely performed facelift technique. It tightens this deeper layer for longer-lasting, more natural results.
- What is the SMAS?
- The SMAS is a layer of connective tissue and muscle that covers the face
- It is the layer that surgeons lift and tighten during a facelift
- By tightening the SMAS, the skin is redraped, creating a natural lift
How it is performed:
- Incision: Around the ear, extending into the hairline
- Skin elevation: The skin is carefully separated from the SMAS layer
- SMAS tightening: The SMAS layer is tightened with permanent sutures
- Skin redraping: The skin is repositioned over the tightened SMAS
- Excess skin removal: Loose skin is trimmed
- Closure: The incision is closed
- Advantages:
- Long-lasting results (10β15 years)
- Natural-looking β avoids the "windswept" look
- Addresses the structural cause of sagging
- Can be combined with neck lift or other procedures
- The SMAS facelift is appropriate for:
- Patients with sagging cheeks and jowls
- Those seeking a comprehensive facelift
- Patients who want natural, long-lasting results
Who It Is For
Clinical Guidance
The SMAS facelift tightens the underlying muscle layer of the face, providing natural-looking, long-lasting results. It is the gold standard of facelift techniques and is appropriate for most patients seeking facial rejuvenation.