Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Todd Hobgood typically recommends a SMAS facelift technique for younger patients with early signs of aging who want a more defined jawline and subtle enhancements. A SMAS facelift helps our Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, patients treat mild to moderate skin sagging in the lower face.
The incisions used for a SMAS facelift are generally the same as those used for a deep plane lower facelift. While it is less extensive than the deep plane approach, this technique is well known to produce reliable results. This is particularly true for younger Scottsdale facial plastic surgery patients who may want a less aggressive procedure.
Dr. Hobgood combines his down-to-earth, personable demeanor with an artistic eye and technical expertise honed through thousands of surgeries, including more than 1,000 facelifts. He's recognized nationally for his leadership and has been honored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery for his ongoing commitment to quality.
Meet Dr. HobgoodSMAS refers to the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, an organized fibrous network composed of the platysma muscle, parotid fascia, and fibromuscular layer covering the cheek.
A SMAS plication facelift is often called a mini facelift because it’s less invasive than a traditional SMAS lift. In this short-scar procedure, the surgeon generally will not undermine or dissect the SMAS tissue; instead, the surgeon uses support sutures in the surface to create the result.
In a traditional SMAS imbrication facelift, the surgeon undermines and separates the SMAS layer, producing a girdling effect that tightens the jowls, jawline, and neck. Neither SMAS plication nor imbrication involves releasing the deep facial ligaments. These ligaments hold the SMAS in place and, unless released, would limit the elevation of the facial tissue.
Under certain patient circumstances, including past surgical history and some anatomic conditions, expert surgeons like Dr. Hobgood may recommend a traditional SMAS imbrication or limited (mini) SMAS plication approach.
However, Dr. Hobgood recommends a deep plane approach for most patients because it reliably produces superior, long-term results. This technique incorporates a more extensive release of facial ligaments, allowing for more natural release and repositioning of the cheeks, jowls, and neck soft tissues. In many circumstances, the deep plane approach for facelifting incorporates a more natural, refreshed look with less downtime. It also allows for the artistic repositioning of the volume of the SMAS platform into a more youthful position, filling the cheeks and jawline. Many people combine their deep plane facelifts with a neck lift or deep plane neck lift for comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face and neck.
See the comparison of traditional and deep plane techniques.
Dr. Hobgood tailors each procedure to the needs of each patient, including the SMAS facelift. A SMAS facelift is sometimes called a short-scar facelift because the incisions are typically less extensive than with a more invasive facelift. Dr. Hobgood makes discreet incisions in front of the ear and lifts the skin, exposing the SMAS layer. He then elevates the tissue and removes excess skin before suturing the incisions.
"The Insider's Guide to Getting a Facelift" is the definitive e-book that distinguishes facts from myths and describes the journey of a facelift patient with engaging content and easy-to-understand illustrations.
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Todd Hobgood is one of the leading facelift experts in the U.S., and he's drawn on years of experience to create this Insider's Guide.
Dr. Hobgood's Insider's Guide describes:
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The recovery time following a SMAS facelift is typically shorter than its deep plane counterpart. You should plan to take a week off from work. During this time, the swelling and bruising peak and then start to resolve. While you may experience some discomfort, any pain is usually well managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. Your incision will initially appear reddish before fading over the ensuing months.
If you’re looking for the best facial plastic surgeon in the Phoenix area, request a consultation using our simple online form to meet personally with Dr. Hobgood or call the office at (480) 214-9955 to schedule an appointment.
