SMAS Facelift in Newport Beach, CA

SMAS Facelift vs. Deep Plane Facelift

Patients researching facelift surgery often encounter both SMAS and deep plane facelift techniques. While each addresses facial aging beneath the skin, they are distinct surgical approaches designed for different anatomical situations.

A traditional SMAS facelift focuses on lifting and repositioning the superficial musculoaponeurotic system to improve facial support and contour.
A deep plane facelift releases additional facial retaining ligaments, allowing deeper facial tissues to be mobilized as a single unit. This approach may provide additional rejuvenation in selected patients with more advanced facial aging.

Rather than relying on a single technique for every patient, Dr. Lee customizes each FACEology LIFT® based on the individual’s anatomy, skin quality, and treatment goals. Depending on your needs, your procedure may incorporate elements of SMAS techniques, deep plane techniques, or a combination of both, to ensure the most natural-looking outcome.

Am I a Candidate for a SMAS Facelift?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Notice sagging in the cheeks or jawline
• Have developed jowls
• Feel your facial contours have become less defined
• Want long-lasting facial rejuvenation
• Prefer natural-looking surgical results
• Are in good overall health
• Have realistic expectations

During your consultation, Dr. Lee will determine whether an SMAS-based approach is appropriate or whether another facelift technique may better suit your anatomy.

What to Expect During Facelift Surgery

Every facelift performed at FaceologyMD is customized to the individual patient.

Dr. Lee carefully evaluates facial anatomy before creating a personalized surgical plan designed to restore youthful contours while preserving natural facial expression.

The FACEology LIFT® is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in our fully accredited surgical suite using IV twilight sedation rather than general anesthesia. This modern approach is designed to maximize patient comfort while supporting a smooth recovery experience.

Depending on your surgical plan, treatment may include repositioning deeper facial tissues, refining the jawline, improving neck contours, and removing excess skin with meticulous attention to incision placement and facial balance.

Recovery After a SMAS Facelift

Recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery and each patient’s individual healing process. Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first week following surgery. As healing progresses, swelling continues to improve and facial contours gradually become more refined.

Many patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities in approximately two weeks, while more strenuous activities are typically resumed after clearance from Dr. Lee. As healing continues over the following months, the final results become increasingly apparent.

Why Choose FaceologyMD for a SMAS Facelift?

Successful facelift surgery requires more than technical expertise—it requires artistic judgment and a deep understanding of facial anatomy.

Patients choose Dr. Raymond Lee because of his:

• Double board certification in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology 
• Fellowship training in aesthetic facial plastic surgery 
• More than 4,000 facial rejuvenation procedures performed 
• FACEology LIFT® signature facelift technique 
• Individualized surgical planning 
• Natural-looking facial rejuvenation philosophy 
• Fully accredited on-site surgical suite 
• Personalized recovery protocols 

We encourage you to explore our Before & After Gallery to view real patient results and read Patient Reviews to learn about the experiences of patients who have chosen Dr. Lee for facial rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions About SMAS Facelift