WHAT IS A SUB SMAS FACELIFT?
UNDERSTANDING SMAS
SMAS stands for Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System, which is a layer of tissue located beneath the skin that connects the facial muscles to the overlying skin. The SMAS layer is a critical structure in facial rejuvenation as it supports the skin and deeper facial tissues. By manipulating and tightening this layer, significant improvements can be made in the appearance of the face.
SUB SMAS FACELIFT
In suitable patients Dr Sandeep employs a sub-SMAS facelift technique that focuses on addressing the SMAS layer to achieve a more rejuvenated and youthful appearance.
GOAL
The goal of these techniques is to achieve a youthful, rejuvenated appearance without an “over-pulled” or “windblown” look. When done correctly, the results of a sub-SMAS facelift can be both natural-looking and long-lasting.
There are various techniques for manipulating the SMAS layer, including SMAS plication and SMAS imbrication:
SMAS PLICATION
This involves folding the SMAS layer onto itself and then suturing it in place. It’s a method of tightening the SMAS without removing any tissue. The advantage of this technique is that it avoids cutting the SMAS, reducing the risk of injury to the facial nerve. However, the results might not be as long-lasting compared to methods that involve excising part of the SMAS.
SMAS IMBRICATION
This technique involves making an incision in the SMAS and either removing the excess tissue or overlapping it with the remaining SMAS. The overlapped portions are then sutured together. This method is more involved than plication and can produce longer-lasting results.
DEEP PLANE FACE LIFT
Please read our blog on deep plane facelift to learn about this technique.
THE PROCEDURE
INCISION
During a sub-SMAS facelift, Dr Sandeep makes incisions around the ear and lifts the skin and underlying tissues to access the SMAS layer. By making incisions around the ear, Dr Sandeep can discreetly hide the surgical scars, which is a common practice in facelift surgeries to ensure a natural-looking result.
THE LIFT
He then repositions and tightens the SMAS layer, by folding it on itself (SMAS Plication) or by incising the SMAS and either excising the excess tissue or by overlapping it with the remnant SMAS (SMAS imbrication) to tighten the SMAS layer.
After the necessary adjustments are made to the SMAS layer and any excess skin is removed, the skin is redraped over the new facial contours, and the incisions are sutured closed.
This provides a firmer foundation for the skin to sit on, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
LIMITATIONS OF PLICATION AND IMBRICATION FACELIFT
Sub-SMAS facelifts are often used to target early to moderate signs of lower facial sagging and laxity with early signs of jowl formation and ill-defined jawline.
It is important to recognise that these techniques do not address signs of midface aging like descent of midface tissues and hollowing under the eyes, which requires either a deep plane facelift, endoscopic sub-periosteal midface lift often in conjunction with a lower blepharoplasty.
RECOVERY
Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the surgery, but most patients can expect some swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within a few weeks.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS: FOR MONITORING RECOVERY AND DISCUSSING ANY CONCERNS.
- Suture Removal: If non-dissolvable sutures are used, they are removed 7 days after surgery.
- Touch-up Procedures: Rarely, some clients may require additional minor touch-up procedures for fine-tuning of the results.
ADVANTAGE OF SUB SMAS LIFT
Dr Sandeep and his team are well-versed in the myriad benefits that a lip lift procedure can offer. When clients consult with them, they are provided with a comprehensive understanding of how a lip lift can enhance their facial aesthetics. Here are some advantages of the procedure, as outlined by Dr Sandeep and his expert team:
IMPROVED PROPORTION AND BALANCE
One of the primary benefits of a lip lift is that it can improve the proportion and balance between the upper lip and other facial features. This creates a more harmonious and youthful appearance.
REDUCED PHILTRUM LENGTH
Some people have a long philtrum (the space between the upper lip and the base of the nose), either due to ageing or due to their natural lip anatomy. A lip lift can effectively shorten this distance, contributing to a younger and fresher look.
ENHANCED TOOTH SHOW
A subtle but appealing advantage of a lip lift is the slight exposure of the upper teeth when the mouth is slightly open or during speech, which is often considered a sign of youth and vitality.
LONGER LASTING RESULTS
A Sub SMAS lift offers durable results which will always make you appear 4-5 years younger than what you would look without the facelift.
NATURAL LOOK
Dr Sandeep aims for a natural look, avoiding the ‘overdone’ appearance that can sometimes result from dermal fillers. The lip lift procedure lifts the client’s own tissue, which tends to result in a more natural texture and contour.
QUICK RECOVERY
The procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia and is relatively quick, with most clients experiencing a swift recovery period. If the procedure is performed in combination with a facelift, a general anaesthesia is usually employed.
BOOSTED SELF-CONFIDENCE
Finally, but certainly not least, the aesthetic improvements achieved through a lip lift often leads to a significant boost in self-confidence and self-esteem.
For anyone considering a lip lift, a consultation with Dr Sandeep and his team is the first step towards understanding how this procedure can meet individual aesthetic goals. They are committed to providing personalised care and expert guidance throughout the entire process.
POTENTIAL RISKS AND DISADVANTAGE OF LIP LIFT
Dr Sandeep and his team believe in providing a balanced and comprehensive overview of any procedure, including lip lift. While the advantages are numerous, it’s equally important to understand the potential downsides. Here are some of the disadvantages that Dr Sandeep and his expert team usually discuss with their clients:
SCARRING RISK
Even though Dr Sandeep utilises advanced techniques to minimise scarring, there is always a risk of scar formation, particularly if the client has a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring.
Dr Sandeep advises sun avoidance and prescribes silicone gel and sun block to help achieve an imperceptible scar.
DOWNTIME AND RECOVERY
Though the recovery period is typically short, some swelling, bruising, and discomfort can be expected. This may require a few days to a week off work or social engagements.
ASYMMETRY
There’s a possibility of slight asymmetry after the surgery, which might require revision or additional treatments.
LIMITATION IN RESULTS
While a lip lift can be transformative, it has its limitations. It primarily affects the upper lip and won’t provide the plumping effect that some people may seek, which is usually achieved through fillers.
EMOTIONAL ADJUSTMENT
Significant changes to one’s appearance may require an emotional adjustment period, even if the surgical outcome is successful.
OVER-CORRECTION AND UNDER-CORRECTION
Rarely occurs and may need touch up procedures.
REVISION SURGERY
In some cases, a secondary procedure might be required to fine-tune the results or correct any issues that may arise post-operatively.
INFECTION
This is rare. Antibiotics may be prescribed by Dr Sandeep to reduce the risk.
BLEEDING AND HAEMATOMA FORMATION
Bleeding under the skin leading to bruising and swelling are possible risks. These usually subsides within 1-2 weeks. If a blood clot forms, it may need evacuation.
NERVE DAMAGE
Nerve damage could lead to changes in lip sensation or altered/asymmetrical smile.
RISK OF ANAESTHESIA
Allergic reactions to anaesthesia and complications related to anaesthesia may occur in a small proportion of clients.
Dr Sandeep and his team always conduct thorough consultations to discuss both the pros and cons in depth, ensuring that each client has a full understanding of what to expect. This allows individuals to make an informed decision that aligns with their aesthetic goals and personal circumstances.
if you’re considering an upper lip lift, please consult Dr Sandeep and his team for accurate information tailored to your individual needs.
