If you’ve been researching facelift surgery online, you’ve probably come across the term “Deep Plane Facelift.”
Social media, celebrity interviews, and plastic surgery influencers have helped make the Deep Plane Facelift one of the most talked-about procedures in facial rejuvenation today. Some sources even describe it as the “gold standard” of facelift surgery.
But is a Deep Plane Facelift truly better than a SMAS Facelift?
The answer may surprise you.
Understanding the Goal of Facelift Surgery
Regardless of the specific technique used, the goal of facelift surgery is the same:
- Restore a more youthful facial contour
- Improve jawline definition
- Address sagging in the cheeks and lower face
- Improve neck laxity
- Create natural, refreshed results
Modern facelift surgery focuses on repositioning deeper facial tissues rather than simply pulling the skin tight.
This is where both Deep Plane and SMAS facelift techniques come into play.
What Is the SMAS?
The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is a layer of connective tissue and muscle beneath the skin that contributes significantly to facial aging.
As we age, the SMAS gradually descends, contributing to:
- Jowls
- Loss of jawline definition
- Deepening folds around the mouth
- Neck laxity
Most modern facelift procedures address this layer because repositioning the SMAS produces more natural and longer-lasting results than tightening skin alone.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
A SMAS facelift elevates the skin, repositions the SMAS layer, and removes excess skin to restore youthful facial contours.
Depending on a patient’s anatomy and goals, Dr. Kenneth A. Godwin may utilize advanced SMAS techniques, including SMAS plication or SMASectomy.
These techniques allow for significant improvement in both the face and neck while maintaining an excellent safety profile.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A Deep Plane Facelift works within a deeper surgical plane beneath the SMAS layer.
The procedure involves releasing facial retaining ligaments and repositioning deeper facial structures.
Because the surgery is performed closer to the facial nerve branches, the operation is technically more complex and requires a high degree of surgical expertise.
Is a Deep Plane Facelift Better?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask.
While Deep Plane Facelifts have received significant attention in recent years, current research has not consistently demonstrated that Deep Plane Facelifts produce superior or longer-lasting results compared to expertly performed SMAS facelifts.
In other words, both techniques are legitimate, effective approaches to facial rejuvenation.
The most important factor is not the name of the procedure—it’s the experience, judgment, and skill of the surgeon performing it.
Does a Deep Plane Facelift Last Longer?
Many online sources claim that Deep Plane Facelifts last longer.
However, scientific studies have not consistently shown a clear longevity advantage.
The longevity of any facelift depends on many factors, including:
- Surgical technique
- Skin quality
- Genetics
- Lifestyle
- Sun exposure
- Smoking history
- The natural aging process
Does a SMAS Facelift Improve the Neck?
Absolutely.
One of the most common misconceptions is that only Deep Plane Facelifts address the neck.
In reality, Dr. Godwin’s facelift procedures include comprehensive neck rejuvenation and contouring when indicated. Significant improvements in jawline definition and neck contour can be achieved using advanced SMAS facelift techniques.
The Most Important Decision Isn’t the Technique
Patients often spend countless hours comparing procedure names online.
A better question is:
“Who is performing my surgery?”
An experienced surgeon who consistently produces natural, beautiful, and safe results is far more important than selecting a particular marketing term.
At Godwin Plastic Surgery, Dr. Godwin focuses on individualized treatment plans and proven surgical techniques designed to create natural-looking facial rejuvenation—not an over-pulled or “windblown” appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering facelift surgery and would like to learn more about your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kenneth A. Godwin.
During your consultation, he will evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend the approach best suited to achieving a natural, refreshed result.
Call 267-399-9930 to schedule your consultation.
