SMAS vs deep plane facelift Scottsdale

While there are many effective nonsurgical cosmetic medicine treatments available, a surgical facelift still creates the most dramatic results. For those who have significant concerns about the visible signs of aging, a facelift is often the best option to address those concerns and get the results that they’re looking for.

A facelift is a personalized procedure, and is tailored to each person’s specific concerns. There are a few different specific types of facelift. The traditional facelift is also known as the SMAS facelift, while the deep plane facelift is another option. What are the differences between these types of facelift? When might each one be preferred

What is the SMAS?

To understand the difference between a SMAS facelift and a deep plane facelift, we first need to consider some facial anatomy. The superficial musculoaponeurotic system, or SMAS, is a tissue layer that gives structure to the face. It consists of muscles and connective tissue. The skin and some fat tissue lie above the SMAS. Below it, there are fat pads, muscles, and bones.

A series of ligaments holds the SMAS in place. These ligaments connect the SMAS to the skin above and to the bone below. They lie roughly in a diagonal line from the corner of the eye to the corner of the jaw.

What is a SMAS facelift?

A traditional facelift, also known as a SMAS facelift, addresses the SMAS itself. As we age, the tissues of the SMAS lose their elasticity. This causes these tissues to sag and droop, and folds or grooves may form in them. A SMAS facelift targets the SMAS in order to address these concerns.

During a SMAS facelift, an incision is made starting in the hairline of the temple, curving around the front of the ear, then up behind the earlobe. Excess tissue is trimmed away, and the remaining tissue is tightened. This helps to remove laxity and create a smoother facial appearance.

However, during this type of facelift, the ligaments that tether the SMAS into place are not released. They continue holding the SMAS in place. This limits the ability of the SMAS facelift to lift and tighten the tissues beyond where the ligaments are located. Because these ligaments connect the SMAS to the bone beneath, it can’t be moved very much beyond this point.

What is a deep plane facelift?

The incisions for a deep plane facelift are the same as for a SMAS facelift. However, during a deep plane facelift, the ligaments that hold the SMAS into place are surgically released. This allows the surgeon to lift and tighten more of the SMAS. In addition, it allows for manipulation of the tissues beneath the SMAS, such as muscles.

Overall, a deep plane facelift can create a more dramatic facial rejuvenation. Because the surgeon can do more extensive manipulation of tissues, a deep plane facelift gives them more ability to create results like a more defined jawline and higher cheeks. The deep plane facelift can address issues like jowls and deep lines around the mouth, which are harder to address with a SMAS facelift. The results also tend to be longer-lasting.

With a deep plane facelift, it’s very important that you and your surgeon are on the same page about what type of results you’re hoping for. Because there will be more manipulation of tissues, your facial appearance can change more after a deep plane facelift. You’ll need to trust your surgeon to sculpt your new appearance, so you’ll want to make sure to choose someone who’s very experienced.

The facial nerves are also located very close to the ligaments that tether the SMAS into place. It’s crucial to use excellent surgical technique to avoid damaging these nerves during a deep plane facelift. This is another reason why it’s important to choose a surgeon with a lot of experience in performing this procedure.

Because of the increased manipulation of tissues, many people are expecting the deep plane facelift to have a more difficult recovery. However, the recovery from either type of facelift is about the same. There might be a little more swelling and discomfort after a deep plane facelift. However, with either type, it will take about ten days to two weeks to be ready to go back to regular activities like work, and about a month to be ready to start back up with exercise. You’ll need to plan the necessary time to rest and recover in order to get good results from either type of facelift.

SMAS vs deep plane facelift Scottsdale

In general, a SMAS facelift can work well for those who are a little younger, or who only have limited concerns about their facial appearance. A deep plane facelift is better for those who have more significant concerns, or who want to address specific issues like deep lines around the mouth that are harder to address with a SMAS facelift.

If you’re thinking about a facelift and are wondering which type would be better for you, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Henderson. After examining you and learning more about your goals, she’ll be able to talk to you about which type she would recommend and why. With her many years of training and experience as well as her artistic eye, Dr. Henderson gets fantastic results for her patients. To schedule your appointment, please contact our front desk.

Laser treatment Scottsdale

Laser skin resurfacing can be helpful for a variety of different skin concerns, including sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and changes in texture. If you’re considering laser treatments, we invite you to come in for a consultation. After an exam and a discussion of your goals for your appearance, we’ll be able to recommend a treatment plan. We’ll also give you more detailed and personalized advice on how to prepare for your laser treatment. To schedule your appointment, please contact our friendly front desk staff.