SMAS Facelift Conveniently located to serve Seattle, Kirkland, Bellevue, and Redmond

The SMAS facelift refers to the “Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System.” This surgical approach is an advanced surgical technique, addressing the deeper layers beneath the skin for long-lasting results and a youthful, refreshed appearance that is very natural in appearance.

What is a SMAS Facelift?

The Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System, or SMAS, is a layer of tissues and muscles located beneath the facial skin. With age, gravity, and other environmental factors, this layer can sag, leading to jowls, marionette lines, and other signs of aging. The SMAS facelift specifically targets this layer, offering a comprehensive and natural-looking lift. At Liebertz Plastic Surgery at Yarrow Bay, we perform this groundbreaking facelift technique with precision and meticulous care, achieving remarkably natural-looking results.

What is the procedure?

A SMAS facelift begins with a meticulously placed incision within the hairline or around the contours of the ear for minimal visible scarring. Once the incision is made, the skin is gently lifted to expose the underlying SMAS layer. The surgeon then repositions and tightens this layer to achieve a firmer, uplifted facial contour. Excess skin is trimmed away, and the skin is then redraped smoothly over the newly rejuvenated SMAS layer. The incisions are closed, and the procedure is complete.

One of the key benefits of an SMAS facelift is its ability to provide a more profound, more comprehensive lift than older, traditional facelift techniques, which create a visible pulled or “windswept” look. By targeting the foundational structures of the face, it offers a transformative and very natural-looking result.

What is the recovery time after an SMAS Facelift?

After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling and bruising. It’s essential to keep the head elevated and avoid any strenuous activities. Cold compresses should be avoided to ensure healthy, viable skin, and pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort in the early stages of recovery.

Most patients find that they can return to their normal activities within two weeks, although this can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. For a smooth and uneventful recovery, follow post-operative care instructions.

Over time, as the healing progresses, the full benefits of the SMAS facelift appear. The face appears more youthful, and contours are sharper, with sagging skin, wrinkles, lines, and jowls resolved. The incision lines are hidden, with scars facing with time, becoming nearly invisible.

What does an SMAS Facelift treat?

Several facelift techniques exist, each with its own advantages. The SMAS facelift stands out for its ability to address the deeper structures of the face. This approach provides longer-lasting results and ensures that the changes appear natural, without the “overdone” or “pulled” look of older techniques. This surgical approach treats the following signs of facial aging:

Sagging skin: Tightens and elevates loose skin, reducing the appearance of droopiness.
Sagging jawline: Restores youthful definition at the jawline.
Jowls: Effectively reduces the sagging skin around the jawline, giving a firmer contour.
Marionette lines: Diminishes the deep lines that run from the corners of the mouth down to the chin.
Nasolabial folds: Reduces the prominence of etched-in smile lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Loose neck skin: Provides an improvement in the neck area by tightening excess skin.
Cheek laxity: Lifts and rejuvenates sagging cheeks, giving a more youthful appearance.

An SMAS facelift can be combined with other procedures, such as a neck lift, brow lift, buccal fat removal, or eyelid surgery, for a more comprehensive level of facial rejuvenation. When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Liebertz, who prioritizes patient safety, understanding, and natural aesthetics, the results can be transformative.

The SMAS facelift is a revolutionary approach to achieving profound yet natural facial rejuvenation. Targeting the deeper layers of the face offers unparalleled longevity and transformative results.

Why choose us?

Dr. Liebertz, a distinguished facial plastic surgeon at the heart of our practice, has received elite training from the esteemed Keck School of Medicine and further specialized in Advanced Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Emory University. Mentored by pioneers of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Liebertz brings a unique blend of skill and artistry. He’s dedicated to enhancing your natural beauty with nuanced, sophisticated results, ensuring you receive the highest quality, compassionate care every step of the way.