Today, there are many ways to reverse signs of aging via non-invasive procedures, threads, lasers and Ellacor. Having said that, there is only so much that can be gained through these maneuvers. Ultimately, the best way to reverse facial aging is still a Facelift. And there are many many different ways to lift the face. Having said that, all the newer facelift techniques work by manipulating the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer. This facial muscle layer weakens with age, contributing to sagging and wrinkles. At The Aesthetic Centers in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Agha and his associates are experts in various facelift techniques, including the SMAS lift.
Looking to regain a youthful jawline and address signs of aging? The SMAS facelift (rhytidectomy) might be the answer. This surgical procedure targets the lower two-thirds of your face and neck. It addresses concerns like:
The SMAS Facelift addresses the underlying cause of sagging by tightening the SMAS layer and restoring your natural contours, resulting in a restful and rejuvenated appearance. This popular technique is noted for its ability to provide long-lasting results in facial rejuvenation.
Although there are many ways to manipulate and tighten the SMAS layer, broadly speaking, these approaches fall into one of the three main types of SMAS tightening procedures. Each procedure provides different benefits to patients, which means that the SMAS technique is highly adaptable to individual needs.
Techniques such as SMAS plication and SMAS Facelift offer surgeons a tailored approach to enhance facial volume, particularly for individuals experiencing significant volume loss in the lower face and neck areas. However, improvement in the upper cheek area may be limited with SMAS facelift procedures, requiring fat grafting to address this concern.
The SMAS plication facelift involves using sutures to tighten the SMAS layer in the face. There are many ways to fold the SMAS layer on itself and tighten the SMAS with sutures. Many Plastic Surgeons have described their own pattern of suturing techniques, each with its own unique outcome. One of the most well-known methods is the MACS facelift, which stands for Minimal Access Cranial Suspension facelift. Other SMAS plication facelifts include life-style facelifts, lunchtime facelifts, quicklift facelifts, etc.
During this procedure, the facial skin is lifted to expose the SMAS Layer. The SMAS layer is then folded on itself according to the planned suturing pattern via permanent or long-lasting dissolvable sutures. The excess skin is next excised, and the incisions are closed.
In a standard SMAS facelift, similar steps are taken to the SMAS plication technique. However, in a standard facelift procedure, the SMAS layer is detached from the underlying tissues, trimmed, and repositioned to achieve a lifted and rejuvenated look. This procedure targets the deeper tissues of the face, providing long-lasting results.
The SMAS technique allows for a more personalized facelift by enabling the lifting of the SMAS musculature in varying directions for a customized facial rejuvenation.
The third category of SMAS procedures is the lateral SMASectomy. This procedure involves cutting and lifting the SMAS layer to address signs of aging in the face. The surgery begins with a skin incision, followed by careful undermining of the tissue towards the nose, lips, and sometimes extending into the neck. This initial step allows the surgeon to evaluate the excess tissue present in the SMAS. By removing the redundant tissue in the SMAS, or occasionally repositioning it to other areas of the face, the surgeon can achieve a more precise and well-defined outcome compared to other techniques like SMAS plication.
There is sometimes confusion about the distinction between the SMAS facelift and deep plane facelift techniques. The SMAS facelift treats the facial skin and SMAS musculature as distinct components. Conversely, a deep plane facelift elevates the skin and SMAS together as a singular unit, performed at a deeper tissue level.
Proponents of the deep plane technique argue that it offers the ability to better correct smile lines and the upper cheek region due to its deeper tissue targeting. Additionally, it may enhance skin circulation during healing, potentially reducing the risk of skin necrosis and minimizing visible bruising. Advocates also claim that the deep plane facelift can shorten a patient’s recovery period due to a less extensive skin dissection.
Compared to traditional facelifts, SMAS offers a faster recovery. Many patients experience a dramatic reduction in visible aging signs, often reporting feeling and looking 10-15 years younger. One of the primary advantages of opting for an SMAS facelift lies in its ability to deliver a more authentic and enduring outcome when contrasted with alternative facelift techniques. By focusing on the deeper facial layers, this procedure effectively addresses sagging skin, diminishes wrinkles, and enhances facial contours.
Furthermore, it can seamlessly complement cosmetic procedures like brow lifts or eyelid surgeries, facilitating a holistic facial revitalization.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Once the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon will make discreet standard facelift incisions, often around the ears and sometimes extending into the hairline for minimal visibility of scars.
Next, the surgeon will carefully lift the skin over the SMAS and tighten the underlying SMAS layer. This tightening of the SMAS layer allows for a more natural and longer-lasting result compared to procedures that only address the skin. Any excess skin is trimmed away, and the remaining skin is gently repositioned for a smoother and firmer appearance. The incisions are then meticulously closed with sutures or skin adhesives.
Additionally, facial fat deposits can also be repositioned during the SMAS procedure. Superficial fat located in the midface, known as "malar fat," helps to increase facial volume. With the extended SMAS technique, this fat is repositioned back to the midface, enhancing the malar prominence and restoring facial fullness.
The objective of an SMAS facelift is to achieve enduring, natural-looking results. The outcome typically becomes evident within a few months.
A neck lift is often part of the SMAS facelift procedure, although it's not obligatory. Upper and lower eyelid corrections and deep wrinkle fillers around the mouth corners can be included as optional enhancements. Eyebrow lifts and Botox treatments are common for addressing frown lines.
Discover the transformative potential of an SMAS facelift with Dr. Agha and his associates at The Aesthetic Centers in Newport Beach, CA. As experts in various facelift techniques, including the SMAS lift, they provide personalized consultations to discuss your aesthetic goals and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. Book your consultation today to embark on your journey towards a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.
Recovery time from an SMAS facelift varies from person to person but typically involves a downtime period of about two to three weeks. Following your SMAS facelift, you might encounter bruising, swelling, and discomfort. Over the initial weeks of recovery, these symptoms typically diminish gradually. By two to three weeks post-surgery, many individuals can resume their normal activities, including work. However, you must refrain from strenuous activities until your wounds have fully healed.
An SMAS facelift aims to provide long-lasting and natural-looking results by lifting and tightening sagging facial skin, smoothing out wrinkles, and enhancing overall facial contours. While initial results may be visible within a few days post-surgery, as bruising and swelling subsides, the full outcome becomes more apparent over time.The results of an SMAS facelift typically matures at about 6 months after surgery. Most individuals can resume regular activities, including work, within two to three weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided until wounds are fully healed.
To maintain results, patients should follow post-treatment care instructions diligently, including avoiding smoking, excessive sun exposure, and strenuous activities. Proper incision care and scar prevention techniques, such as keeping the incision sites clean and moisturized, can help minimize scarring. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential for monitoring progress and addressing concerns. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle with a good skincare routine and careful sun protection can prolong your facelift results.
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