While deep plane facelifts often provide the most comprehensive and longest-lasting results, not every patient requires the same level of correction. Dr. Todd Hobgood is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who carefully evaluates each patient’s facial anatomy, degree of aging, and goals to determine the most appropriate approach.
For select patients with early to moderate signs of facial aging, a SMAS facelift can offer noticeable improvement in jawline definition and lower facial contour while maintaining a natural appearance. When chosen intentionally, this technique can be an effective part of a personalized facial rejuvenation plan for our facelift patients from Scottsdale, Arizona, and beyond.
With over 20 years of experience performing the full spectrum of facelift techniques, Dr. Hobgood bases his recommendations on what will deliver the safest, most natural-looking, and longest-lasting result for each patient. During a personal consultation, he takes the time to determine the best approach and ensure patients feel informed and confident in their decisions.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
SMAS refers to the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, an organized fibrous network composed of the platysma muscle, parotid fascia, and fibromuscular layer covering the cheek. A SMAS facelift targets this layer to create youthful, natural-looking rejuvenation.
SMAS Plication Facelift
A SMAS plication facelift is often called a mini facelift because it’s less invasive than a traditional SMAS lift. In this short-scar procedure, the surgeon generally will not undermine or dissect the SMAS tissue; instead, the surgeon uses support sutures in the surface to create the result.
Traditional SMAS Imbrication Facelift
In a traditional SMAS imbrication facelift, the surgeon undermines and separates the SMAS layer, producing a girdling effect that tightens the jowls, jawline, and neck. Neither SMAS plication nor imbrication involves releasing the deep facial ligaments. These ligaments hold the SMAS in place and, unless released, would limit the elevation of the facial tissue.
Under certain patient circumstances, including past surgical history and some anatomic conditions, expert surgeons like Dr. Hobgood may recommend a traditional SMAS imbrication or limited (mini) SMAS plication approach.
What Is Dr. Hobgood’s Preferred Facelift Technique?
Having performed more than 1,700 facelifts over his 20+ years in practice, Dr. Todd Hobgood recommends a deep plane approach for most patients because it reliably produces superior, long-term results. This technique incorporates a more extensive release of facial ligaments, allowing for more natural release and repositioning of the cheeks, jowls, and neck soft tissues. In many circumstances, the deep plane approach for facelifting incorporates a more natural, refreshed look with less downtime. It also allows for the artistic repositioning of the volume of the SMAS platform into a more youthful position, filling the cheeks and jawline.
Many people combine their deep plane facelifts with a neck lift or deep plane neck lift for comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face and neck. Dr. Hobgood’s online photo gallery has more than 125 facelift patient cases that cover a variety of combinations and have contributed to his 380+ 5-star reviews on Google.
Dr. Hobgood combines his down-to-earth, personable demeanor with an artistic eye and technical expertise honed through thousands of surgeries, including more than 1,700 facelifts and over 5,000 rhinoplasties. He's recognized nationally for his leadership and has been honored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery for his ongoing commitment to quality.
Dr. Hobgood tailors each procedure to the needs of each patient, including the SMAS facelift. A SMAS facelift is sometimes called a short-scar facelift because the incisions are typically less extensive than with a more invasive facelift. Dr. Hobgood makes discreet incisions in front of the ear and lifts the skin, exposing the SMAS layer. He then elevates the tissue and removes excess skin before suturing the incisions.
A Must-Have for Facelift Patients
"The Insider's Guide to Getting a Facelift" is the definitive e-book that distinguishes facts from myths and describes the journey of a facelift patient with engaging content and easy-to-understand illustrations.
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Todd Hobgood is one of the leading facelift experts in the U.S., and he's drawn on years of experience to create this Insider's Guide.
Dr. Hobgood's Insider's Guide describes:
Why modern facelift techniques create results that look natural
Who is a good candidate for a facelift
What the difference is between a full and a mini facelift
When you can expect to see friends socially after a facelift
Submit the form below to receive our free eGuide as part of a short series of emails on Facelift.
How Long Is Recovery After a SMAS Imbrication Facelift?
The recovery time following a SMAS facelift is typically shorter than its deep plane counterpart. You should plan to take a week off from work. During this time, the swelling and bruising peak and then start to resolve. While you may experience some discomfort, any pain is usually well managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. Your incisions will initially appear reddish before fading over the ensuing months.
Sign Up to Receive News & Special Offers
SMAS Facelift FAQ
How much does an SMAS facelift cost in Scottsdale?
The cost of your SMAS facelift varies depending on the desired amount of correction, whether you are including other procedures in your treatment plan, and a variety of other individual factors. During your consultation, we’ll discuss costs based on your surgery’s specifics.
How long does a SMAS facelift last?
The results of a SMAS facelift typically last 10 years depending on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and genetics.
How much younger does a SMAS facelift make you look?
A SMAS facelift can turn back the clock significantly on your appearance. Many patients find they look 10 or more years younger than before their operation.
Does a SMAS facelift include the neck?
Yes, Dr. Hobgood typically includes a neck lift as part of a SMAS facelift.
How painful is a SMAS facelift?
You will be comfortably anesthesized and asleep during your SMAS facelift. Your recovery may involve some discomfort, which you can manage with prescription medications.
What's the difference between a deep plane and SMAS facelift?
The main difference is how the underlying facial tissues are lifted. A deep plane facelift releases and repositions deeper layers of the face for more natural, longer-lasting results, especially in the midface and neck. A SMAS facelift lifts and tightens the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer without fully releasing it. This can be effective for certain patients but may produce a more limited lift compared to Dr. Hobgood’s preferred deep plane approach.
Which is better: a SMAS or a deep plane facelift?
Both procedures offer powerful benefits to the patient. Your choice of technique depends on your degree of facial aging and goals for rejuvenation. Dr. Hobgood can help you explore your options in a personal consultation.
Ready To Talk With Dr. Hobgood?
If you’re looking for the best facelift surgeon in Scottsdale, request a consultation using our simple online form to meet personally with Dr. Hobgood or call the office at
(480) 214-9955 to schedule an appointment.
