02 Sep SMAS vs Deep Plane Facelifts: Unveiling The Best Wrinkle Reduction Approach
Considering A Facelift?
A rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that gives patients a younger, fresher appearance. Facelifts are performed on older patients who have lost natural volume in the face due to aging. There are several types of surgical facelifts, including deep plane, mini, jawline, upper facelift, and even liquid facelifts. Results vary based on factors like the type of facelift and the natural contours of the patient’s face.
The mechanics of a deep-plane facelift
The deep plane facelift targets the face’s superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) to give patients a lifted appearance. The SMAS is a system of fibrous tissues along the side of the cheeks. A deep plane facelift repositions cheek fat in a vertical direction while tightening muscle fibers. During the surgery, doctors make incisions near the ears and sideburn areas. Next, doctors lift the skin to separate the ligaments and muscle tissues. Then, doctors reposition the SMAS fibers and the buccal fat to elevate the face and smooth out wrinkles.
The benefits of a mini facelift
A mini facelift targets the lower face area, specifically the jawline. Before the surgery, incisions are made along the hair and ear line. After making the incisions, surgeons pull the skin taut up and outwardly. To complete the procedure, surgeons remove excess skin and stitch the incisions shut. Many people prefer mini facelifts because these procedures result in less scarring than traditional facelifts. Patients also have fewer side effects, less bruising, and a shorter recovery time.
Could an upper facelift work for you?
Eyebrow lifts are considered upper facelifts. This facelift targets the upper portion of the face and is meant to smooth wrinkles along the eyes and forehead. Classic brow lifts require surgeons to make a horizontal incision from one ear to the other. A less invasive brow lift uses an endoscope to locate facial tissues. Surgeons make small incisions in the scalp and reposition tissues before using stitches or anchors to set the tissues in place.
The special jawline rejuvenation technique
A neck lift eliminates unwanted skin from the neck and chin areas. Sometimes, doctors will also perform liposuction to remove excess fat and tissues, resulting in a more sculpted jawline. Before the surgery, surgeons make incisions beneath the chin and behind the ears. Surgeons uplift the skin and underlying muscles to soften skin folds and eliminate sagging jowls.
Try a liquid facelift
Unlike other facelift procedures, liquid facelifts don’t require any surgery. Instead, doctors use dermal fillers to lift and add volume to the face. The filler can be made from a substance like hyaluronic acid, which is known to hydrate the face and stimulate collagen production. Doctors may also use Botox to relax facial muscles and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Fillers are semi-permanent and last for a few months up to a couple of years.
Finding the right procedure for you
A facelift is a major surgery that can make patients look and feel much younger. Patients should talk to a surgeon to learn more about facelift procedures and other cosmetic facial techniques.