About SMAS Facelift 

The SMAS facelift, or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System facelift, is a surgical procedure aimed at lifting and tightening the deeper layers of the face to achieve facial rejuvenation.

The SMAS layer is a fibrous network of tissues that lies beneath the skin and is responsible for facial support. During the SMAS facelift, the surgeon lifts and tightens this layer to address sagging and restore a more youthful appearance. 

  • Average Cost: Starting at $19,000
  • Discomfort Level: Relatively mild
  • Typical Recovery Period: 10 to 14 Days
  • Anesthesia Options: Local, General, IV Sedation
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What is a SMAS Facelift?

The SMAS lift is an advanced facelift method specifically designed to address issues in the lower two-thirds of the face. This approach focuses on the support layers of the face, achieving an overall revitalization of the face with long-lasting results.

The superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) is a vital support structure in the face. Practitioners can achieve pronounced anti-aging effects when this deep tissue layer is lifted.

What Issues Can a SMAS Facelift Address?

The SMAS facelift is an effective means of reversing laxity in the SMAS membrane, which is often the cause of issues such as sagging cheeks, jowls, and submental fat (a double chin). The procedure involves extracting excess skin and fat while tightening the muscles for a thorough rejuvenation of the face. 

This technique has proved to be effective at treating the following conditions:

  • Volume loss in the cheeks
  • Sagging in the mid-face region
  • Sagging fat in the cheeks
  • Nasolabial folds (the lines that span from the nostrils to the mouth corners)
  • Loose skin and fat underneath the chin 
  • Jowls in the neck 
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Who is an Ideal Candidate for a SMAS Facelift?

Ideal candidates for a SMAS facelift in Nashville will have the following conditions:

  • Are in good general health
  • Have realistic expectations for the results of the procedure
  • Are older than 50 years of age 
  • Are experiencing facial sagging but still have a decent amount of elasticity 
  • Are non-smokers or would be able to quit before the procedure

What Does a SMAS Facelift Procedure Entail?

SMAS facelift procedures are carried out on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. While the procedure is less invasive than a traditional facelift, it can still take several hours to complete. Nonetheless, the recovery time from a SMAS procedure is usually shorter than with the traditional procedure. 

The procedure usually begins with an incision along the patient’s temple just above the hairline, which goes back behind the ears. This incision approach ensures that the future scar will be well hidden in the patient’s hairline and the natural creases of their skin. After the incision, the tissue and muscle are lifted and repositioned in a way that is more aesthetically pleasing and conducive to the patient’s cosmetic goals. Any excess skin is extracted during this time, and the remaining skin is pulled tight to achieve a younger aesthetic.

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What Happens After the Procedure?

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Following a SMAS facelift, it is normal for patients to experience side effects such as mild bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. These conditions will gradually fade away over a few weeks. In most cases, patients can return to their jobs and everyday activities after 2 to 3 weeks. Patients must wait longer before exercising or engaging in any other strenuous activity. 

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    Why Choose Refine?

    Dual-board certified and possessing years of fellowship training, Dr. Lucas Bryant is considered a pillar in the Tennessee cosmetic community. His extensive educational and training background includes a B.S. from the University of Minnesota, medical school training at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and surgical training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He utilizes his wealth of knowledge and experience to curate individualized treatment plans that meet his patients’ unique needs, focusing on facelifts in Nashville

    In addition to his expertise, Dr. Bryant is renowned for his exceptional patient empathy. He and the staff at Refine Surgery create a comfortable environment for their clients to ensure that they can express themselves freely and take an active role in the treatment process. Dr. Bryant works tirelessly to ensure that all his patients leave his office looking and feeling their best. 

    Contact us today to schedule a private consultation and learn more about our SMAS Facelift in Nashville. 

    In-Office use of Local Anesthesia 

    What makes Refine Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics unique is that many procedures can be done under local anesthesia. Patients do not have to go to a surgery center or hospital and are not intubated.  

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    Refined Treatments. Elegant Results. Schedule a Consultation

    Experience the transformative difference that working with Dr. Bryant can have on your life. Schedule a consultation with us in Nashville today.

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