High SMAS vs. Deep Plane Facelift

As we age, it is natural for the skin’s appearance and texture to change, particularly in areas like the face. Factors such as lifestyle, sun exposure, and genetics can all play a role in how these changes appear over time. For some, facial surgery is one approach considered to address specific aesthetic concerns related to ageing.

In facial surgery, techniques like the High SMAS and Deep Plane Facelift exist and individuals considering either procedure should be informed of what each entails.

What is a High SMAS Facelift?

A traditional SMAS facelift occurs at the cheek level, lifting the jowl, cheek, and neck area. However, the lower eyelid and mid-face are not really lifted. 

In comparison, a High SMAS facelift lifts the muscle higher than the cheek. The flap begins in line or above the cheekbone, lifting the entire face from the eyes to the neck, including the lower eyelid, mid-face, jowl, and neck. 

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Deep Plane Facelift is a more invasive surgical procedure that lifts the muscles and skin layers in one flap. This procedure releases the important facial ligaments, lifts the muscles, and repositions the nasolabial folds, jowls, and cheeks to a youthful position.

Difference between High SMAS and Deep Plane Facelift:

Procedure

A Deep Plane Facelift differs from a High SMAS in that it lifts the muscle and skin layers together in one flap. It is similar to a High SMAS in that it releases the facial ligaments and is deep into the muscle.

Recovery

Both the High SMAS and Deep Plane Facelift procedures typically involve a recovery period during which patients may feel less inclined to socialise, often for about two weeks. 

Patients of the High SMAS facelift may experience less bruising, as this technique is generally less impactful on the superficial layers of the skin. 

Similarly, the Deep Plane Facelift tends to offer a quicker recovery compared to other techniques, as it lifts the skin and muscle layers in a single, unified movement, often resulting in minimal bruising and swelling.

However, please remember this is a general guideline; recovery experiences can vary greatly from one individual to another.

Candidates

When considering invasive cosmetic procedures, think of candidacy as a combination of personal goals, overall well-being, and readiness, rather than having specific features resulting from ageing that make someone “qualified”. 

Being a candidate for either procedure is more than just having features or changes that “need” to be addressed via surgery. It should instead, consider multiple factors that give you realistic expectations about what the procedures can and cannot achieve.

For more information on the High SMAS or Deep Plane facelift, you may wish to consult with a qualified practitioner. 

Remember, deciding on a cosmetic procedure is a personal and significant decision. You must be fully informed and comfortable throughout every step,  from your initial consultation to the day of surgery, should you choose to proceed. If at any point you experience uncertainty or hesitation, trust that feeling—it’s often a valuable part of the decision-making process. 

Open communication with your surgeon about any questions or concerns can ensure that you’re making the best choice for your well-being.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.