Why Is the Deep Plane Facelift Better Than the SMAS Facelift?

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Facelift techniques have come a long way from the facelift surgeries of old Hollywood, where the skin was tightened and trimmed with no consideration of the underlying structure. 

As time progressed, plastic surgeons realized the need for more advanced surgical techniques, primarily techniques that did address the underlying musculature as well as the skin. This realization resulted in the development of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) facelift. 

What Is the SMAS Facelift?

The SMAS facelift is the primary facelift technique used in practices today, and it certainly has benefits compared to the original facelift. During a SMAS facelift, the deeper layer of muscles (the SMAS layer, found on the sides of the face between the jawline and mid-cheek) is separated from the skin and surgically elevated. From here, the skin is tightened, and excess skin is trimmed (if necessary).

By tightening both the SMAS layer and the skin, plastic surgeons can provide more natural-looking and longer-lasting results.

While the SMAS facelift provides nice correction to the lower cheeks and jawline (and is light-years ahead of original techniques), it is not the most advanced facelift technique. 

What Is the Deep Plane Facelift, and How Does It Build on the SMAS?

The deep plane facelift is an advanced technique perfected by Dr. Boris Ackerman. This “upgraded” facelift combines the tightening of the SMAS layer with the deeper dissection of the entire cheek complex, extending to the nasolabial folds (parenthesis lines between the nose and mouth). 

By addressing the deeper structure, Dr. Ackerman can better adjust and reposition the entire facial structure for a more dramatic — yet natural — rejuvenation. The technique also tends to provide more consistent longevity (compared to the SMAS) because the deeper structures are also tightened and elevated. 

The results of the deep plane facelift are very long lasting; however, as the surgery does not stop the aging process, additional aging will occur — albeit at a much slower rate than if you did not undergo a facelift. 

Is the Deep Plane Facelift Performed the Same Way?

While the deep plane facelift uses similar skin incisions to the SMAS facelift, the techniques are different. 

One primary difference between the two is how the skin and underlying tissues are tightened. During a SMAS facelift, the skin is detached from the SMAS layer and tightened on a separate plane.  The deep plane facelift does not separate the skin to the same extent. 

Does the Deep Plane Facelift and SMAS Facelift Adjust the Same Areas?

The SMAS facelift targets the lower face, including the lower cheeks, jawline, and neck. 

The deep plane facelift targets the same area of the SMAS facelift; however, it also includes the mid-cheek and can make the cheek-lid junction appear better. This allows for a more balanced facial aesthetic since all areas are tightened together. 

The SMAS facelift does not tighten the mid-cheek.

Can Anyone Perform a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift affects many levels of the facial structure and requires extensive knowledge of that structure. Performing the deep plane facelift takes skill, talent, and experience to safely perform consistently with optimal results. 

Therefore, the choice of your surgeon is paramount. Dr. Ackerman is an expert in the deep plane facelift technique and has been performing it for years. This is his go-to facelift technique, as he believes the results to be of a higher caliber.

Is a SMAS Facelift Bad?

After comparing the SMAS facelift to the deep plane facelift, it seems evident that the deep plane facelift offers more, which is most often true. 

However, it is important to remember that the SMAS facelift is not a bad technique; it’s simply not the most advanced technique. Many people worldwide have received beautiful results using the SMAS method, which is why it is so readily performed today.

What Does a Facelift Look Like?

Are You Considering a Facelift in Newport Beach, CA?

Dr. Boris Ackerman is a world-renowned plastic surgeon in Newport Beach with many years of experience performing the deep plane facelift technique. Dr. Ackerman has even designed a special device, the Ackerman facelift retractor, to aid in performing the deep plane facelift. Be sure to check his facelift before and after gallery to see more transformations.

Give Dr. Boris Ackerman a call today! Dial (949) 759-3284 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation.