What It Is
A SMAS facelift (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System facelift) is a surgical procedure that targets deeper facial structures beyond just the skin. The SMAS is a fibrous layer of tissue beneath the skin that supports facial muscles and fat. By tightening and repositioning this layer, a SMAS facelift provides more natural, long-lasting rejuvenation compared to skin-only facelifts. In Korea, the SMAS facelift is one of the most advanced and sought-after procedures for reversing moderate to severe signs of aging in the midface, jawline, and neck.
Why It’s Done
People choose a SMAS facelift because it:
- Corrects deep wrinkles, sagging jowls, and loose skin in the mid and lower face
- Lifts the jawline and neck for a more youthful contour
- Provides longer-lasting results than a mini or skin-only facelift
- Prevents the “pulled” or artificial look by lifting deeper structures instead of only tightening the skin
- Restores confidence and rejuvenates facial harmony
Alternatives
- Mini facelift: For younger patients with mild sagging
- Thread lifts / Ultherapy / HIFU: Non-surgical methods that provide subtle lifting but less durable results
- Deep plane facelift: A more advanced technique that lifts deeper structures, often used for more dramatic transformations
Preparation
- Detailed facial assessment and surgical planning using 3D imaging technology in Korean clinics
- Medical history review, blood tests, and anesthesia clearance
- Discontinuation of blood thinners, smoking, and alcohol 2–3 weeks before surgery
- Fasting before surgery if general anesthesia is planned
- Preoperative instructions for skin care and recovery planning
How It’s Done
- Usually performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation
- Incisions are placed along the hairline and around the ears to minimize visible scarring
- The surgeon carefully lifts the skin, tightens and repositions the SMAS layer, and removes excess skin
- Surgery duration is typically 3–5 hours depending on the complexity
- Patients usually stay overnight in the hospital for monitoring, especially in advanced clinics in Korea
Recovery
- Swelling and bruising peak during the first 1–2 weeks and gradually subside
- Stitches are usually removed in 7–10 days
- Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks
- Complete healing and final results can take up to 3–6 months
- Korean clinics often provide specialized post-op care, such as swelling-reduction treatments, LED therapy, and scar care
Possible Complications
- Temporary numbness, bruising, or swelling
- Hematoma (blood accumulation under the skin)
- Infection (rare in advanced Korean facilities)
- Asymmetry or dissatisfaction with results
- Nerve injury (rare, minimized with skilled surgeons)
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
Korean surgeons use 3D facial analysis, photography, and skin elasticity tests to determine the best surgical plan. Some hospitals also use AI-based simulations to predict surgical outcomes.
Medical Treatments
Non-surgical approaches such as Ultherapy, Thermage, thread lifting, or filler-based contouring are available for patients not ready for surgery or those who want to prolong facelift results.
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- SMAS plication (folding and tightening) for moderate sagging
- SMASectomy (removal of redundant SMAS tissue) for better contouring
- SMAS elevation and repositioning for severe sagging, often combined with a neck lift
- Korean surgeons often combine SMAS facelift with fat grafting, laser resurfacing, or eyelid surgery for complete rejuvenation
Rehabilitation and Support
- Korean clinics offer structured recovery programs with lymphatic massage, LED light therapy, scar management, and swelling care
- International patients benefit from translation services, personalized care coordinators, and medical tourism support packages
- Regular follow-ups ensure long-term results and patient satisfaction
Advantages of receiving a SMAS facelift in Korea:
- Highly skilled surgeons with expertise in advanced facelift techniques
- Use of cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive approaches for natural results
- Cost-effective compared to Western countries
- Comprehensive aftercare programs and international patient services
- Long-lasting, natural rejuvenation with minimal scarring
