Facelift surgery is a complex and highly specialised area of plastic surgery, with different techniques tailored to address specific anatomical layers of the face. Two of the most advanced and widely discussed options are the SMAS facelift and the deep plane facelift. Both procedures involve repositioning underlying tissues rather than only tightening the skin, but they differ in surgical approach, scope, and depth.
A full SMAS facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)—a fibrous layer of muscle and tissue just beneath the skin. By lifting and tightening this layer, the appearance of the lower face and jawline may be changed. This approach focuses on addressing skin laxity along the jowls and chin without disturbing deeper facial structures. The technique is commonly used for concerns in the lower third of the face.
A deep plane facelift works at a deeper level than the SMAS approach. In this procedure, the skin, fat, and muscle are repositioned together as a single unit. The technique involves releasing certain ligaments beneath the SMAS layer, allowing the surgeon to reposition tissues at a deeper level, extending into the mid-face. It is commonly applied to areas such as the cheeks and nasolabial folds. Because of its depth, this method works at a deeper level and may be used when multiple facial regions are involved.
While both techniques aim to reposition underlying facial tissues, they differ in depth, scope, and the areas they most effectively treat.
| Feature | SMAS Facelift | Deep Plane Facelift |
| Surgical depth | Superficial layer (SMAS) | Beneath SMAS, deeper tissues |
| Target areas | Lower face, jawline | Mid-face, nasolabial folds, cheeks |
| Ligament release | Minimal | Yes, key facial ligaments released |
| Complexity | Standard | More advanced technique |
Suitability for deep plane facelift vs SMAS depends on an individual’s anatomy, skin quality, and areas of concern.A SMAS facelift is often used to address changes in the lower face and jawline, while a deep plane facelift is commonly used to target mid-face laxity.. Ultimately, a personalised consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the best approach.
Recovery experiences vary, but most patients can expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort following either procedure. Initial healing typically occurs over two to three weeks, though residual swelling may last longer. Many individuals return to social activities within a few weeks, depending on the technique used and their healing response.
Like all surgeries, facelifts carry risks. These may include infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, or scarring. Specific risks include nerve injury (temporary or permanent), particularly in deeper procedures, and asymmetry. A thorough discussion of these risks with a surgeon is a standard and necessary part of the consultation process.
Dr. Mark Doyle is a FRACS-qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years’ experiencein performing both SMAS and deep plane facelift techniques. He provides surgical plans tailored to each patient’s anatomy and prioritises safety throughout the process.
Facelift surgery is a regulated cosmetic procedure in Australia, requiring a referral from a GP before scheduling a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon. If you are considering a SMAS or deep plane facelift in Brisbane or the surrounding areas, contact Gold Coast Plastic Surgery to arrange an appointment with Dr. Doyle.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.