When it comes to facial rejuvenation, the world of facelifts can be confusing. With so many types of facelifts, such as “mini,” “lower,” “deep,” “ponytail,” and “quick,” it’s no wonder patients feel overwhelmed. Even plastic surgeons sometimes throw up their hands in frustration! The truth is, there is no standard definition for a facelift—it varies based on the surgeon’s technique and branding.
In this blog post, I’ll break down the most common types of facelifts and explain the differences to help you navigate this complex landscape.
Understanding the SMAS
The key to any facelift is the SMAS—the muscle layer beneath the skin. This is the “meat” of the operation. When I perform a facelift, I use the SMAS to lift the cheeks, jowls, and neck. The difference in results comes from how the procedure is tailored for each patient and how the vectors (the direction of the pull) are applied.
For example, younger patients may need less work around the jowls, while older patients may require more extensive adjustments to both the jowls and the entire submental (under the chin) area. Every facelift is unique to the patient, and the SMAS is always at the core of the procedure.
Is it time for a facelift? Find out in this related blog post.
The Deep Plane Facelift: What’s the Buzz?
Recently, there’s been a lot of hype on social media about the term “deep plane facelift.” Initially, this was an esoteric term used among plastic surgeons, referring to a specific type of subperiosteal lift. Traditionally, anything under the SMAS was called a sub-SMAS lift, but now, “deep plane” has become a catch-all term for any surgical manipulations beneath the SMAS.
The truth is most facelifts already involve lifting the SMAS in the deep plane. It’s something we routinely do in both the midface and submental areas, adjusting the technique based on the patient’s needs. The bottom line? Call it what you want—as long as the SMAS is lifted, the magic happens!
Not a Facelift: Beware of Imitations
There’s a lot of misinformation, especially on social media, about procedures marketed as alternatives to facelifts. Let me be clear: Threads, liquid lifts, and vampire lifts are not facelifts. These options come nowhere close to delivering the long-lasting results of a real facelift. While we all want to believe in quick fixes, don’t be fooled by cheap imitations.
How long can you expect a facelift to last? Find out in this blog post.
The Take-Home Lesson
If you feel you should earn college credit for reading this blog, don’t worry—this is a complex topic! You’ve already done more homework than most, and you get an A+ for effort. My advice? Keep doing your research, but at the end of the day, trust your surgeon. I’ve been in practice for 28 years, plus 6 years of surgical residency and medical school before that. Rest assured—you’re in good hands!
A Final Note on My Technique: The #TaylorMade Facelift
Now, here is a quick word about my personal technique, which I like to call the “#TaylorMade Facelift.” My goal is to deliver natural results. People won’t necessarily think you’ve had a facelift—they might just assume you’ve lost weight, especially when they see how good your neck looks. But remember, this is about you. You’re doing this for yourself, and that’s the only person who matters.
Ready To Put Your Best Face Forward?
If you’re ready to explore your options for facial rejuvenation, I invite you to schedule a personal consultation or call Aesthetica Surgery & Spa at (614) 569-2649. Let’s talk about how we can get the natural, refreshed look you want.
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