SMAS vs. Deep Plane Facelift

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, not all facelifts are created equal. Two of the most commonly discussed techniques are the SMAS facelift and the Deep Plane Facelift—but the differences between them are significant, especially when it comes to natural-looking results and longevity.

At The Palm Beach Center for Facial Plastic and Laser Surgery in Jupiter and Palm City, Florida, Dr. Jean-Paul Azzi exclusively performs Deep Plane Facelifts, and for good reason.

What Is a SMAS Facelift?

The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift is one of the most widely performed facelift techniques. It typically involves lifting the skin layer of the face and then using sutures to tighten or oversew the SMAS layer (just below the skin). While this technique can provide some improvement to the face, jowls and neck, it doesn’t have the longevity patients desire and can even result in the dreaded “windswept” operated look. 

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

The Deep Plane Facelift goes a step further—literally. This advanced technique releases and lifts the deeper facial ligaments and tissues beneath the SMAS layer as a single unit. By working in this deeper anatomical plane, Dr. Azzi can reposition the entire underlying facial structure rather than just tightening surface tissues. This results in a more natural and dramatic rejuvenation, without the “pulled” or overly tight look that can sometimes occur with older methods.

Why Dr. Azzi Only Performs Deep Plane Facelifts

Dr. Azzi is a nationally renowned, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in the Deep Plane Facelift because it offers:

• Superior Longevity: Results from a Deep Plane Facelift typically last significantly longer than those of a SMAS facelift—often over a decade. Learn more about longevity here.

• Natural Results: The deep release and lifting of facial tissues allows for smoother, more youthful contours without looking overdone.

• Improved Neck and Jawline Definition: The technique allows for comprehensive lifting of the midface, jowls, and neck all at once.

• Minimal Skin Tension: Because the deeper structures are doing the lifting, there’s less tension on the skin, leading to more refined incisions and better scar healing.

No General Anesthesia Required

Another factor that sets Dr. Azzi apart is his commitment to patient safety and comfort. Over the course of the last 10-15 years, he has developed a state-of-the-art and game-changing way to perform his Deep Plane Facelift without the risks or downsides of general anesthesia, using only local anesthesia and Valium for patient comfort. Not only are the risks associated with anesthesia eliminated, but recoveries can be much more rapid with minimal downtime, no drains and an overall almost painless and pleasant experience.

Trust Your Face to a Specialist

Choosing to undergo a facelift is a deeply personal decision—and one that should be made with a surgeon who understands the anatomy, artistry, and advanced techniques required to achieve exceptional results. Dr. Azzi’s dedication to the Deep Plane Facelift technique ensures his patients experience long-lasting, natural rejuvenation that enhances rather than alters their appearance.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Azzi

If you're exploring your options for facial rejuvenation, a consultation with Dr. Jean-Paul Azzi can help you better understand the benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift and whether it’s the right approach for your goals. Call (561) 5403 or click here to contact us online.