Facelift techniques have become a frequent topic of discussion online, with terms like deep plane facelift and SMAS facelift appearing across websites, social media, and consultation requests. While these terms describe different surgical approaches, many patients are surprised to learn that the name of the technique matters far less than the surgeon’s understanding of facial anatomy and how the procedure is performed.
For patients researching a deep plane facelift in Chicago or trying to decide between facelift options, understanding what these terms actually mean can help remove confusion and support a more informed decision.
Understanding Facial Aging and Anatomy
Facial aging does not occur at just one level. Over time, changes happen across multiple layers of the face, including:
- Skin thinning and laxity
- Descent of fat pads in the cheeks and jawline
- Weakening of deeper support structures
- Loss of definition in the neck and jaw
Modern facelift surgery focuses on repositioning these underlying structures, not simply tightening the skin. This is where the distinction between SMAS and deep plane facelift techniques becomes relevant.
What Is the SMAS Layer?
The SMAS, or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, is a fibrous support layer located beneath the skin and facial fat but above the deeper facial muscles. It plays a key role in facial movement and structural support.
Most modern facelifts work on this layer rather than relying on skin tightening alone.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
A SMAS facelift focuses on lifting and repositioning the SMAS layer to improve facial contour while minimizing tension on the skin.
What the surgeon does:
- Elevates the skin
- Identifies and tightens or repositions the SMAS layer
- Redrapes the skin without pulling it tight
What this improves:
- Jowling along the jawline
- Lower face sagging
- Neck contour when combined with neck work
Why it looks natural:
Because the deeper support layer is doing the work, the skin is not overstretched. This helps avoid a pulled or artificial appearance.
Often appropriate for:
- Mild to moderate facial aging
- Patients with good skin quality
- Patients whose concerns are primarily in the lower face and jawline
When performed skillfully, a SMAS facelift can produce natural, long-lasting results.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift works below the SMAS layer, closer to the facial muscles and retaining ligaments that hold the face in position.
What the surgeon does:
- Lifts the skin and SMAS together as one unit
- Releases specific facial ligaments
- Repositions deeper facial tissues and fat pads
What this improves:
- Midface and cheek descent
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Jawline definition with smoother transitions
Why it is more complex:
This approach is performed closer to facial nerves and critical structures, requiring advanced anatomical knowledge and surgical precision.
Often appropriate for:
- More advanced facial aging
- Significant midface sagging
- Patients who need cheek, jawline, and neck rejuvenation together
SMAS vs. Deep Plane: The Simple Difference
Here is the clearest way to think about it:
- SMAS facelift: lifts and tightens the facial support layer
- Deep plane facelift: repositions deeper facial structures as a unit
Neither approach is automatically better. The effectiveness depends on who performs the surgery and how well it matches the patient’s anatomy.
Why the Surgeon Matters More Than the Technique Name
A perfectly executed SMAS facelift will always look better than a poorly executed deep plane facelift. The reverse is also true.
What truly determines results includes:
- The surgeon’s understanding of facial anatomy
- Their ability to identify where aging is occurring
- Skill in tissue handling and tension management
- Judgment in selecting the appropriate surgical plane
Trendy terminology does not guarantee natural results. Surgical expertise does.
Achieving Natural Results
Patients consistently express the same goals when considering facelift surgery:
- A refreshed appearance
- Preserved facial expression
- No tight or pulled look
Natural results come from respecting facial anatomy, repositioning deeper tissues correctly, and avoiding excessive tension on the skin. These principles apply regardless of whether a SMAS or deep plane technique is used.
How Dr. Neena Will Approaches Facelift Decisions
At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, facelift surgery is performed by Dr. Neena Will, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with advanced training in facial anatomy and aging patterns.
Rather than applying a single technique to every patient, Dr. Will evaluates:
- Individual facial anatomy
- Pattern and severity of aging
- Skin quality and tissue descent
- Long-term goals and expectations
Based on this assessment, she determines whether a SMAS facelift, a deep plane approach, or a customized variation is most appropriate.
This individualized planning is essential for achieving natural results that preserve facial identity.
Making an Informed Facelift Decision
For patients researching a facelift, the most important step is not choosing a buzzword, but choosing a surgeon with the experience and judgment to select the right approach for their anatomy.
A comprehensive consultation should include:
- Detailed facial evaluation
- Clear explanation of surgical options
- Discussion of benefits and limitations
- A recommendation tailored to the individual
Final Thoughts
Facelift terminology will continue to evolve, but the foundation of successful facial rejuvenation remains the same. The most important factor is not whether a facelift is labeled SMAS or deep plane, but the surgeon behind the technique.
When facial anatomy, surgical expertise, and individualized planning come together, the result is a refreshed, natural appearance that looks like you, just well-rested and rejuvenated.