When most people think about plastic surgery procedures, a facelift is surely one of the first things that comes to mind. As one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, it can be performed in a number of different ways depending on your needs. One of the most popular methods is the SMASectomy technique.
The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer is the most heterogeneous layer of the facial anatomy. Based on where it resides on your face, it can be fatty, fibrous, or muscular in nature. The muscles of all your various facial expressions are a part of the SMAS layer.
Making dissections deep into the SMAS layer requires the utmost care and proficiency to ensure optimal results. There are different types of SMAS dissections and the variations of SMASectomy procedures are among the most popular facelift techniques performed in the United States today.
What is a SMASectomy?
The SMAS layer became critical to the facelift procedure in the 1970s. The manipulation of the SMAS is a common approach to face-lifting, and skilled modification of the SMAS can produce satisfying, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing results. The SMASectomy is particularly the most preferable choice for patients with heavier faces.
During this procedure, a strip of the SMAS tissue layer is removed. Afterwards, the two corresponding edges are internally sewn together to provide incredible support to the other facial tissues. Advocates of the technique commonly state that it provides brilliant, long lasting results.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A SMASectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is typically done with sedation or a light anesthesia, as well as local anaesthesia. The SMASectomy applies the best principles of other SMAS procedures. During a SMASectomy, a strip of the SMAS layer is excised on an oblique line between the angle of the mandible and lateral canthus. The SMAS layer is then sutured.
The mobile SMAS anterior to the SMASectomy is advanced to the immobile SMAS. The procedure is capable of closing the defect in vertical fashion as there is a greater effect on the neck if the closure is more vertical. Most SMASectomy surgeries involve tightening the lateral platysma. The results from the procedure provide a wide range of benefits to the neck.
Are you a Good Candidate for a SMASectomy?
Prospective patients have to meet strict eligibility criteria before they can opt for a SMASectomy. Your blood pressure needs to be strictly controlled because high blood pressure leads to hypertension, a factor that correlates with most post-op hematomas. If your BP is too high, you may not qualify for the procedure.
Patients are advised to quit smoking at least a month before surgery and for several weeks after the surgery is completed. Patients need to be in good health and ready to provide a detailed medical history. Prospective patients will also need to follow detailed pre-op instructions laid out by their surgeons.
Contact Our Office
Contact our office to learn more about the SMASectomy facelift. With the help of Dr. Gregory Stagnone, a highly experienced plastic surgeon, you can receive the rejuvenated face you desire in a safe and caring environment.