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Home » Anti-Aging Procedures » Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy) » High Extended SMAS Face and Neck Lift

High Extended SMas
Face & Neck Lift

At Wave Plastic Surgery

High Extended SMas
Face & Neck Lift

At Wave Plastic Surgery

SMAS Face & Neck Lifts in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County

As we age, our skin begins to lose elasticity, and the tissues and muscles underneath the skin also loosen, causing sagging and drooping. Both facial skin and underlying muscles must be corrected to reverse these signs of aging. Simply suspending the skin with threads or strings may not achieve the desired look. Tightening and re-suspending the tissue under the skin, known as the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) and the platysma, can reposition your facial structures and lift the tissues to give you a more youthful appearance.

But what exactly is a SMAS facelift, how does it work, and who is this procedure best suited for? Let’s explore these questions and more below.

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Before And After Gallery

Patient Transformations

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Client Testimonials

I recently had a facelift performed by Dr. Peter Lee, and I couldn't be happier with the results. From the initial consultation to the final follow-up appointment, Dr. Lee and his team provided outstanding care and attention to detail. Dr. Lee's expertise and professionalism were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, address all my concerns, and set realistic expectations. His warm and approachable demeanor made me feel comfortable and confident in my decision. I highly recommend Dr. Peter Lee for anyone considering a facelift. His skill, artistry, and dedication to patient satisfaction are truly exceptional. Thank you, Dr. Lee, for helping me achieve such wonderful results!

I had a lower facelift, neck lift, and lower blepharoplasty (lower eyelid) done. Dr. Ben Lee was simply outstanding. My lower eyelids were drooping and I had eyebags too. He was able to tighten the skin around my lower eyelid and extend upper double eyelid so my eyes would look natural and beautiful.

I am completely happy with the surgery. The staff were amazing too. I highly recommend them.

The staff and the doctors are so personable and friendly. I love the face, neck and lower eye lid lifts; I look refreshed and I look over 10 years younger. It was money well spent. Dr Ben Lee did an awesome job and my face looks so natural. I recommend Wave Plastic Surgery for any of the specialties they offer.

Peter Lee is a miracle worker. I had a bad facelift which Dr. Lee corrected. This was no small thing. Staph scars were deep into one side of my neck, climbing onto my face. I had no feeling in part of my cheek and I was very self conscious about the severe asymmetrical nature of my face. Worse, though I'd paid for a neck life, none was done. So when I came to WAVE I was very nervous, covered in scars, and lacking symmetry. 6 weeks ago I had my face redone and it is lovely. The scars are gone and the stitches were so perfect Dr. Lee could do side work with couture! I had very minimal discomfort and followed the directions to find myself with a gorgeous jaw line and much improved face. I am so glad I took the time to find this place. They are lovely, lovely people and I could not be happier with my results.

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Understanding the High Extended SMAS Face & Neck Lift

The high-extended SMAS face and neck lift is a sophisticated procedure that goes beyond the capabilities of a traditional facelift (rhytidectomy). While a traditional facelift primarily addresses loose skin and skin laxity, this advanced SMAS facelift technique targets the deeper layers of the face and neck, including the SMAS layer, which is composed of facial muscles, fascia, and ligaments. This technique provides a more comprehensive and long-lasting facial rejuvenation by lifting and tightening the underlying structures of the face and neck.

The goal of the facelift is to restore the various facial tissues and structures back to their normal anatomical position.

Related: Facelift Vs. Neck Lift Procedures

Cosmetic procedures like facelift surgery only deal with the lower two-thirds of the face and neck. The upper third of the face – including the eyelids – is part of a different region that may require additional facial cosmetic surgery procedures to correct.

The goal of the facelift is to restore the various facial tissues and structures back to their normal anatomical position.

What is the SMAS Layer?

The SMAS layer is a network of facial muscles and connective tissues that play a crucial role in the overall structure and appearance of the face and neck. As mentioned, the SMAS layer can become lax over time, leading to sagging skin, jowls, and other signs of aging. The high-extended SMAS face & neck lift addresses this layer, effectively improving facial and neck contours and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging for a natural, rejuvenated appearance.

How Does it Work?

The SMAS comprises vertical muscle bands that attach the lower face, jawline, and neck muscles. Lifting this tissue allows a plastic surgeon to address these problem areas simultaneously. Repositioning the SMAS, rather than just the superficial layer of skin, ensures that the muscles responsible for slight facial expressions are positioned typically and look natural.

Extended SMAS Facelifts vs. High SMAS Facelifts

Extended SMAS Facelifts focus on the neck and jawline.
High SMAS Facelifts lift the cheeks and jowls.

Depending on your surgeon’s recommendation, these SMAS facelift procedures can be performed together or separately.

Who Is A Good Candidate For A
High Extended SMAS Face & Neck Lift?

The high-extended SMAS face & neck lift is an advanced facelift procedure designed to provide comprehensive rejuvenation by addressing the deeper layers of the face and neck. This procedure is suitable for any individual with signs of aging seeking significant and long-lasting improvements in their appearance. The ideal candidates for this procedure include those who:

Experience moderate to severe sagging skin and skin laxity in the face and neck: Candidates often notice significant sagging, jowls, and loose skin, which the high-extended SMAS procedure effectively addresses. SMAS procedures are particularly effective for patients with loss of malar volume (superficial fat in the midface called “malar fat” which gives the face volume and a youthful look.
Have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes: Understanding the potential results and limitations of cosmetic surgery is crucial for satisfaction. Ideal candidates have a clear and realistic vision of what the procedure can achieve.
Are in good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that could impair healing: A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to ensure that candidates can safely undergo surgery and recover without complications.
Seek a long-lasting solution for facial and neck rejuvenation: This procedure offers durable results, making it suitable for those who want to maintain a youthful appearance over a longer period.

During your consultation, our board-certified surgeons will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine if the high-extended SMAS face and neck lift is the right option.

If you have questions about the high-extended SMAS facelift and neck lift, contact us today at 888-674-3001

What Parts of The Face Does a Facelift Treat?

Facelift surgery primarily addresses the lower two-thirds of the face and neck, including areas such as the jowls, nasolabial folds (smile lines), and sagging skin. The upper third of the face, including the eyelids, typically requires additional cosmetic procedures like a brow lift or eyelid surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation. The goal of a facelift is to restore the facial tissues and structures to their natural anatomical position, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

See more on our Before & After gallery!

Your facelift procedure can help treat issues such as:

Supplementing your facelift with a brow lift and eyelid surgery can help rejuvenate the upper portion of your face for an even younger look.

Complementary Procedures

To achieve an even more youthful look, some individuals benefit from supplementing a facelift with a brow lift and eyelid surgery to address the upper portion of your face. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we offer a range of complementary procedures that can enhance the results of your High-extended SMAS face & neck lift or other facelift procedure, including:

Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery): Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, can improve the balance and harmony of your facial features by reshaping the nose. Combining rhinoplasty with a high-extended SMAS face and neck lift can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing overall appearance.
Rhytidectomy (Facelift): A rhytidectomy can be performed in conjunction with a High-Extended SMAS Face and neck Lift to address specific areas of concern and achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. This procedure can be combined with a High-Extended SMAS Face and neck Lift to create a more youthful and refreshed look.

See more in our Before & After gallery!

Related: Non-Surgical Facelift Options

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The High Extended SMAS Face & Neck Lift Procedure

At our certified outpatient surgery center in Los Angeles, California, your facelift will be performed using either general anesthesia or IV sedation with local anesthesia for your comfort.

1. Dissection and SMAS Plication

The high-extended SMAS face & neck lift involves careful dissection and manipulation of the SMAS layer. Our surgeons make incisions along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin to access the underlying structures during the procedure. The SMAS layer is then carefully separated from the overlying skin and underlying tissues. This allows the surgeon to lift and reposition the SMAS layer, providing a youthful contour to the face and neck.

2. Sutures and Ligaments

The SMAS layer is secured in its new position using sutures to ensure long-lasting results. This process, known as SMAS plication, involves tightening and repositioning the SMAS layer to achieve a natural-looking lift. Our surgeons can create a more harmonious and youthful appearance by addressing the ligaments and other supporting structures.

3. Addressing Excess Skin

Excess skin is carefully trimmed away once the SMAS layer has been repositioned and secured. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and natural result. The remaining skin is then redraped over the newly lifted SMAS layer, and the incisions are closed with sutures. The careful handling of the skin ensures minimal scarring and a more youthful, refreshed look.

The Recovery Process

Recovery from a High-extended SMAS face and neck lift typically involves a few weeks of downtime. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort during this period, which can be managed with prescribed medications and proper care. Our surgeons will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

It is essential to have realistic expectations when undergoing a high-extended SMAS face and neck lift. While the procedure can significantly improve, it cannot stop the natural aging. However, by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following our surgeons’ recommendations, you can enjoy the results of your facelift for many years.

After your SMAS facelift, you will have several follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and receive medications to minimize swelling. We will provide specific care instructions, including when it is safe to wash your hair. Most surgical incision lines will be well-hidden within your hair and progressively fade over time. Our skilled surgeons perform incisions to ensure better recovery times and minimize the risk of long-term scars.
You may experience temporary numbness and swelling after your SMAS lift, but you should be ready to return to work and normal activities with a rejuvenated appearance in about two weeks.

Benefits of the High Extended SMAS Face & Neck Lift

The High extended SMAS face & neck lift offers numerous benefits compared to a traditional facelift:

Comprehensive rejuvenation: This technique provides more significant and longer-lasting results by addressing the deeper layers of the face and neck.
Natural appearance: The procedure creates a natural-looking lift, avoiding the overly tight or “pulled” appearance that can occur with some facelift techniques.
Improved facial and neck contours: The procedure enhances the face and neck contours by lifting and repositioning the SMAS layer, providing a more youthful and defined appearance.
Reduction of wrinkles and sagging: The high-extended SMAS face and neck lift effectively reduces wrinkles, sagging skin, and jowls, restoring a youthful, natural look.

Choosing Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center

At Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center, our team of board-certified surgeons is committed to providing the highest quality care and achieving exceptional results. With extensive experience in facial plastic surgery and a dedication to patient satisfaction, we strive to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Expertise and Compassion

Our surgeons deeply understand facial anatomy and the intricacies of the high-extended SMAS face and neck lift procedure. They approach each case with precision and care, ensuring patients receive personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our state-of-the-art facilities in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Arcadia, Orange County, and Rowland Heights are equipped with the latest technology and designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for our patients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the recovery time for a high-extended SMAS face & neck lift?

Recovery from a high-extended SMAS face & neck lift typically involves a few weeks of downtime. You should be ready to return to work and normal activities within two weeks, though complete healing and final results may take a few months. Our surgeons will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

How long do the results of a high-extended SMAS face & neck lift last?

The results of a high-extended SMAS face and neck lift are long-lasting, often lasting up to 10-15 years. The natural aging process will continue; however, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and using some non-surgical treatments, such as injectables and laser therapies, can help protect and enhance the effects of the facelift over time.

Can I combine a high-extended SMAS face & neck lift with other procedures?

Yes, a high-extended SMAS face & neck lift can be combined with other procedures for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include:

Brow lift: To address sagging in the upper face.
Blepharoplasty: To rejuvenate the eyelids.
Rhinoplasty: To enhance the nose’s appearance and create facial harmony.

Your surgeon will help you determine the best procedures to achieve your aesthetic goals.

What is the closest thing to a facelift without surgery?

Non-surgical alternatives to a facelift include:

Injectable Fillers: To restore volume and smooth out wrinkles.
Botox and Dysport: To relax facial muscles and reduce fine lines.
Ultherapy: Uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin.
Laser Treatments: For skin resurfacing and improving skin texture and tone.

These treatments offer less dramatic results than surgical facelifts but can provide significant improvements with minimal downtime.

Call us today at 888-674-3001 to learn about Wave’s non-surgical services, including skin tightening and rejuvenation.

What does cheek volume loss look like?

Cheek volume loss is a common sign of aging and can be identified by several noticeable changes in facial appearance:

Hollowing of the cheeks: The cheeks may appear sunken or less full, giving the face a gaunt or tired look.
Flattened cheekbones: The natural contour and prominence of the cheekbones diminish.
Increased nasolabial folds: The lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth become more pronounced due to the loss of underlying support.
Sagging skin: The skin may begin to sag and form jowls as the underlying support structures weaken.

How can I restore my cheek volume loss?

Restoring cheek volume loss can be achieved through several methods, both surgical and non-surgical:

Injectable fillers: Hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm or Restylane can add volume to the cheeks, providing a non-surgical and immediate improvement.
Fat grafting: This procedure involves harvesting fat from another area of your body and injecting it into the cheeks to restore volume.
Cheek surgery: Surgical or non-surgical cheek augmentation or facial implants can enhance the cheekbones and restore lost volume.
High Extended SMAS Face & Neck Lift: This surgical procedure lifts the face and can also reposition and restore volume to the midface and cheeks for a more youthful contour.

What is a loss of midface volume?

Loss of midface volume refers to the reduction of fullness and support in the central part of the face, particularly the cheeks and the area around the nose and eyes. This condition is often associated with aging and can result in several changes:

Hollow under-eye areas: The area beneath the eyes may appear sunken or more pronounced, leading to dark circles and a tired look.
Flattened cheeks: The natural contour and fullness diminish, causing a less youthful appearance.
Deep nasolabial folds: The lines running from the nose to the mouth become more pronounced due to the loss of underlying support.
Sagging skin: As the midface loses volume, the skin may start to sag, contributing to the formation of jowls and a drooping appearance.

Restoring midface volume can significantly rejuvenate the overall facial appearance, providing a more youthful and refreshed look.

Give us a call today to schedule your SMAS Facelift surgery consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. Wave Plastic Surgery offers facelift consultations in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco, making it convenient for anyone looking for a “facelift near me.”

Get Your Consultation Today

Give us a call today to schedule a consultation with one of the plastic surgery experts at Wave Plastic Surgery to learn more about the procedure and the thread face lift cost.

Our SMAS Face & Neck Lift Specialists

Peter Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

Dr. Peter is CEO and Chief Surgeon of WAVE Plastic Surgery Center with over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, overlooking 30K+ successful plastic surgery cases. He has mentored master surgeons around the world in state-of-the-art techniques, and has been inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame.

His many accolades and shining results are evidence of Peter’s expertise.

Ben Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

Throughout 20+ years in aesthetic plastic surgery, Dr. Ben Lee has always been passionate about using his skills to impart a lasting, positive impact on the lives of his patients.

“Time and time again, I have witnessed dramatic improvements in a patient’s confidence and well-being after a relatively minor cosmetic or reconstructive procedure. As a surgeon, that brings me great joy.” — Dr. Ben Lee

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Proudly using his creativity to help patients regain a sense of wholeness and confidence, Dr. Ben Lee takes a very patient-centered approach to care.

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References

Joshi K, Hohman MH, Seiger E. SMAS Plication Facelift. [Updated 2023 Mar 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531458
Whitney ZB, Jain M, Zito PM. Anatomy, Skin, Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) Fascia. [Updated 2024 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519014/
del Toro E, Aldrich J. Extended SMAS Facelift. [Updated 2023 Aug 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562296/