For many adults, aging gracefully is a state of mind, and for some, that state of mind greatly improves through enhancing the outer appearance. Over the last 30 years, face-lift procedures have evolved along with technology. Today, men and women who want a younger-looking visage can benefit from the latest minimally invasive surgical procedures for less scarring and a shorter recovery time than in years past.
If you’re considering a face-lift to help you age gracefully, Dr. John Williams, the exceptionally talented and highly trained plastic surgeon at the Plastic Surgery Centers of Baton Rouge, can help you determine the best type of surgery for your needs. Read about the differences between the SMAS and MACS face-lift to find out which option is right for you.
Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) technique
It’s hard to pronounce, but the SMAS face-lift means a less-invasive procedure than traditional face-lifts of years past, and a shorter recovery period. The SMAS face-lift focuses on lifting the lower two-thirds of your face as well as tightening sagging skin, removing excess fat, and addressing volume loss in your cheeks. The SMAS face-lift is also a good option when you want to eliminate loose jowls along your jawline.
The SMAS is a layer of tissue deep within your skin, and it’s an important support structure for your face. When Dr. Williams performs the SMAS face-lift, he precisely manipulates this tissue in a way that both tightens and lifts your face for more volume and a better contour to aging cheeks. Additionally, the SMAS procedure defines your jawline and can even give you a tighter appearance in your neck, as a result of lifting the upper portion of your face.
SMAS face-lifts offer a natural-looking appearance, so you don’t look overdone. When Dr. Williams tightens your facial muscles, removes fat, and trims away excess skin, it dramatically, yet naturally, corrects the overall sagging in the midsection of your face — a common problem with aging skin that succumbs to the loss of elasticity as you get older. Any incisions Dr. Williams makes are hidden within your hairline or discreetly around your ears.
The best candidates for SMAS face-lifts are over 50
If you’re over 50 years old and have some facial sagging, but still have some elasticity in your skin, you may be a good candidate for an SMAS face-lift. Additionally, you should be healthy, a nonsmoker, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of your procedure.
The results of an SMAS face-lift are long-lasting and improve several aspects of facial aging. Dr. Williams can help you decide if the SMAS face-lift is the right procedure for you, or recommend another option, such as the MACS face-lift.
Minimal-Access Cranial Suspension (MACS) technique
The MACS technique is a much less invasive surgery than the SMAS face-lift technique. It’s ideal for men and women who still have quite a bit of natural elasticity in their skin. It targets the underlying muscular structures in your face, so it’s a great option if you have some sagging skin, but good skin tone.
Some advantages of the MACS face-lift include:
- Minimal scarring, or “short scar” technique
- Minimally invasive, fewer incisions
- Faster recovery time (typically 2-3 weeks)
- Shorter length of surgery (only about 2-3 hours)
- Minimal risk of complications
- Can be performed as an outpatient procedure
- Well-suited to younger men and women
So, if you’re interested in surgical facial rejuvenation in the upper two-thirds of your face, without a lengthy recovery period, a MACS face-lift might be a good choice. Keep in mind, though, that it won’t tighten loose jowl or neck skin like the SMAS face-lift does.
The best way to determine which type of face-lift delivers the results you desire, taking into consideration your lifestyle, your skin’s natural elasticity, and your overall health, is with a consultation with Dr. Williams.
Call today to schedule an appointment, or use the online booking tool.
