SMAS facelift surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure that lifts, tightens, or repositions the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a supportive layer beneath the facial skin. The procedure helps improve sagging cheeks, jowls, deep facial folds, and loss of jawline definition.

Deeper Facial Rejuvenation: Addresses underlying supportive tissues rather than tightening the skin alone. Improved Jawline Definition: Reduces the appearance of jowls and restores smoother lower facial contours. Lifting of Sagging Cheeks: Repositions descended facial tissues to improve facial balance. Reduction of Deep Facial Folds: May soften nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Natural-Looking Results: Aims to restore youthful facial contours while preserving natural expressions. Long-Lasting Improvement: Results can remain noticeable for many years, although natural ageing continues. Reduced Skin Tension: Repositioning deeper tissues allows the skin to be redraped more naturally. Personalised Surgical Approach: The technique can be adapted to individual facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.

A traditional skin-only facelift primarily tightens and removes excess skin. An SMAS facelift also addresses deeper supporting tissues, helping improve facial contours without relying solely on skin tension. Many modern facelift procedures incorporate some form of SMAS treatment.

Jowl correction is one of the main benefits of SMAS facelift surgery. Repositioning the deeper facial tissues can reduce jowling and restore a smoother, more defined jawline.

Both techniques address deeper facial structures. An SMAS facelift typically involves tightening, folding, or repositioning the SMAS layer, while a deep plane facelift involves dissection beneath the SMAS and release of selected retaining ligaments to mobilise facial tissues. Neither technique is universally superior; the most appropriate approach depends on individual anatomy and surgical goals.

An SMAS facelift primarily improves the lower cheeks, jowls, jawline, and lower facial contours. Depending on the technique, it may also improve the midface and upper neck.

Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and temporary facial tightness during the first 1–2 weeks. Many can resume light daily activities and non-strenuous work within approximately 2–3 weeks. Residual swelling and tissue settling may continue for several months.

Modern facelift techniques aim to restore facial contours while maintaining natural facial expressions. By repositioning deeper tissues rather than simply stretching the skin, surgeons can achieve a refreshed appearance without an excessively tight or artificial look. Results vary between patients.

The cost varies depending on the patient’s case and desired outcome. General price starts from €6800

Facelift surgery typically takes approximately 2–5 hours, depending on the surgical technique, complexity, and whether additional procedures are performed.

The incisions are made at the hairline and around the ears, making them easy to hide. Over time, they fade and become almost invisible.

After a facelift, you will be able to enjoy a younger-looking face for around ten years.

1 to 2 days in the hospital are usually enough after facelift surgery

There is no specific ideal age for facelift surgery. Many patients consider the procedure between their 40s and 70s, although suitability depends more on facial anatomy, skin condition, degree of ageing, general health, and individual goals than chronological age.

Facelift surgery may be combined with neck lift surgery, blepharoplasty, brow lift surgery, or facial fat grafting, depending on the patient's needs. Combining procedures may offer more comprehensive rejuvenation, but it can also increase surgical complexity and recovery requirements.

Initial improvements become visible as swelling and bruising decrease over the first several weeks. Facial contours continue to settle over the following months, with more mature results generally becoming apparent within approximately 3–6 months. Scar maturation can take longer.