Deep Plane Facelift vs SMAS Lift: What’s the Difference?

Even as less invasive facial rejuvenation treatments become more widespread, facelift surgery is experiencing a surge in popularity. Advanced techniques such as the SMAS and deep plane facelifts have breathed new life into this age-old enhancement, attracting a younger crowd to the procedure. If you’re interested in refining your appearance with surgery, you may be wondering whether the deep plane facelift vs SMAS lift technique is right for you. Find out below!

Who Needs a Facelift?

According to the 2023 American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery survey, the number of facelifts performed annually has increased by 60% since 2017, and the number of facelift patients ages 35 to 55 has also increased.

Younger patients are typically better candidates for less invasive facelifting techniques or even non-surgical options, while older patients or those with more pronounced facial aging are often candidates for a SMAS facelift or a deep plane facelift at our Los Angeles area practice.

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

As its name suggests, a deep plane facelift addresses the deeper layers of the face. Unlike more superficial techniques, this approach goes beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, releasing facial ligaments anchoring the connective tissue and muscle. Your plastic surgeon then repositions and elevates this layer to create a natural yet dramatic improvement in your appearance. The technique addresses the cheeks, jowls, and neck, which is what most patients who are good candidates for any facelift actually need.

Before & After Facelift Case 494 Front View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 494 Right Oblique View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 726 Front View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 726 Right Oblique View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 443 Front View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 443 Right Side View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 458 Front View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

Before & After Facelift Case 458 Right Oblique View in Los Angeles & Torrance, CA, CA — Before and After Facelift near Los Angeles, CA, by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

What Is a SMAS Facelift?

Also known as a traditional facelift, a SMAS facelift addresses the fascial tissue layer just below the skin. Introduced in the 1970s, this technique was a game-changer. Until then, facelift surgery involved making incisions, pulling the skin, and removing excess skin before closing the incisions. It produced a taut, “windswept” look that appeared unnatural.

During a SMAS lift, the surgeon lifts and tightens the layer of connective tissue and the skin, creating more natural-looking results. A SMAS lift addresses jowling and loose neck skin but not the midface. That’s the key difference between a deep plane vs “regular” facelift.

How Do They Differ?

Feature	Deep Plane Facelift	SMAS Facelift
Depth of dissection	Beneath SMAS and facial ligaments	At or just below the SMAS layer
Anesthesia	General anesthesia	Local anesthesia with sedation
Recovery time	Longer	Shorter
Longevity of results	10 to 15 years	7 to 10 years
Naturalness of results	Highly natural, less tightness	Natural, but may be less dramatic
Areas addressed	Midface, cheeks, jawline, neck	Lower face, jawline, neck

How Long Do Results Last?

The results of a deep plane lift typically last a few years longer than those of a traditional facelift. This can be 10 to 15 years. After a decade or more, you’ll still enjoy the benefits of a facelift, but you may start noticing sagging along the jawline or neck.

You can extend the duration of facelift results by following a daily skincare regimen that includes moisturizer, sunscreen, and other professional-grade products. You can read about treatments that can enhance your facelift results in our earlier blog post.

Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a deep plane and SMAS facelift depends on your unique facial anatomy, degree of aging, and personal goals. Good candidates for a deep plane facelift are usually women and men in their 50s and 60s who feel that their appearance doesn’t reflect how they feel. Younger patients may benefit from a traditional facelift.

Explore Facial Rejuvenation With Our Experts

A consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons is the best way to determine which technique will deliver the rejuvenated results you desire. Both approaches can create a refreshed, youthful, natural-looking appearance. You can request a consultation using the online form or call South Bay Plastic Surgeons at (310) 784-0644 to schedule an appointment at our Torrance, CA, practice.