A facelift surgery, also called a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to address signs of aging in the face and neck. One type of facelift technique called the SMAS facelift can make you look instantly younger by correcting the changes that inevitably occur with age. Please continue reading to learn more about this facelift surgery, including what it involves, how much it costs, and how it compares to other types of facial plastic surgery.
What is a SMAS facelift (rhytidectomy)? What does SMAS stand for?
A SMAS facelift or SMAS rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure that focuses on the lower two thirds of the face. It can be combined with a neck lift and eyelid surgery for more complete facial rejuvenation of the upper and lower face and neck. A SMAS facelift is performed to address common aging concerns such as volume loss, excess fat, sagging skin, and jowls. The goal is to restore a more youthful appearance by tightening and lifting loose tissue and readjusting lifted tissue.
A SMAS facelift is less invasive than a traditional facelift. It targets only the superficial part of the face. As a result, recovery is faster after a SMAS facelift technique.
SMAS is short for superficial muscular aponeurotic system. This is a layer of tissue under the skin that plays a critical role in supporting the structures of the face. By manipulating the SMAS, a plastic surgeon can change the appearance of the face.
How does the SMAS technique work?
With age, the skin of the face and SMAS layer becomes less elastic. This leads to volume loss in the cheeks, double chin, and sagging facial tissue along the jawline, leading to sunken cheeks and fleshy jowls. Also, the nasolabial folds (indentations from the corners of the mouth to the nose) become deeper. All these changes give the face a tired and old appearance.
A SMAS facelift counteracts these signs of aging by remove excess fat, trimming excess facial skin, and tightening loose skin and muscle. The facelift surgery can correct problems such as mid-face sagging, sunken or hollow cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, jowls, and loose skin under the chin.
Who is a good candidate for a SMAS facelift?
Men and women over the age of 50 with visible signs of aging in the facial skin are good candidates for a SMAS rhytidectomy. Individuals in this age group tend to have some degree of facial sagging but still retain a fair amount of skin elasticity. People who are non-smokers, in good general health, and have realistic expectations can benefit from a SMAS facelift.
How is the SMAS facelift done?
Anesthesia
A SMAS facelift plastic surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. You will be asleep during the procedure and will not feel anything. You will need to bring someone with you to drive you home after the procedure.
Procedure
The surgeon will start by making the SMAS rhytidectomy incisions. A typical SMAS incision extends from above the hairline to the temple and further along the natural creases of the skin, curving behind the ear on either side. The surgeon will lift and rearrange the subcutaneous facial and neck tissue and remove loose skin, excess skin, and excess fat. The platysma muscles may be manipulated to address neck bands. Once the skin is re-draped over the face, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. The scars from a SMAS facelift are hidden in the hairline and the natural creases of the skin. The procedure can take several hours to complete depending on how much work you're having done (for example, it will take longer if you're having a neck lift as well).
Recovery
You will go home with a dressing on your face as well as drainage tubes to draw out excess fluid and blood. It is common to have some bruising, swelling, discomfort, and numbness for a few weeks after the SMAS facelift technique. Most patients take 2-3 weeks off work to heal from the facelift SMAS surgery. However, you will be able to slowly return to normal activities during this time, including taking a shower after one day. The stitches are usually removed 4-5 days later. You will need to return to your surgeon for followup visits weekly for the first 4-6 weeks, followed by monthly visits, and ultimately, annual visits.
How long does SMAS facelift last?
A SMAS facelift will give you long-lasting results. However, the results of a SMAS rhytidectomy are not permanent. As you continue to grow older, there will be gradual changes in your face which no facelift surgery can prevent. On average, the results of a SMAS facelift last for 10-12 years.
What are the risks?
A SMAS facelift is a surgical procedure. Therefore, it carries general surgical risks such as the risks of anesthesia, bleeding, infection, breathing problems, reactions to medications, and blood clots. Complications specific to facelift surgery include damage to a nerve or muscle in the face, pain, numbness, and poor healing of wounds. There can also be scarring, changes in skin color, and irregular contours. You can reduce your risk of SMAS facelift complications by choosing a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon and following all the post-surgical instructions from your doctor.
MACS vs SMAS Facelift Techniques
SMAS Facelift
As noted, a superficial muscular aponeurotic system SMAS facelift is a less invasive procedure compared to a traditional facelift and involves a shorter recovery. It can give you natural-looking results without looking overdone. A skilled plastic surgeon can tighten facial muscles, remove excess fat, and trim away excess skin to dramatically yet naturally turn back the clock.
MACS Facelift
The MACS (minimal access cranial suspension) facelift technique is even less invasive than the SMAS procedure. It is a short-scar technique with fewer incisions and minimal scarring. The MACS facelift is done under local anesthesia. It is a shorter surgery with a faster recovery time. There is minimal risk of complications. This facial plastic surgery can be done on an outpatient basis. However, it is only recommended for younger men and women with less severe aging signs, for example, some sagging but quite a bit of natural skin elasticity and good skin and facial muscles tone. A MACS facelift cannot tighten loose neck skin or jowls on the jawline like a SMAS facelift technique.
How much does a SMAS facelift cost?
The average cost of a SMAS facelift ranges from $10,000 to $15,000. The price can vary greatly depending on where you live and will depend, of course, on the amount of work you're having done. Related procedures such as treatments for wrinkles can drive up the cost of your SMAS facelift.
Which facelift surgery is right for me?
Each patient is unique with a unique face and aging changes. The best way to find out which type of facelift will give you the cosmetic results you desire is a consultation with a board certified plastic or cosmetic surgeon. The surgeon will take into consideration your appearance, the condition of your skin including its natural elasticity, your aesthetic goals, your lifestyle, and your overall health, before recommending the best facelift surgery for you.
Can't wait to take the years off your face and look more youthful? The MeTime app makes it easy to find providers who offer SMAS facelift and other plastic surgery procedures near you. You can chat with experts, send photos across, set up a video consultation, and book an office appointment when you're ready. Download the MeTime app today and say hello to a younger, more attractive version of yourself.
