Traditional (SMAS) Facelift
in Long Island, NY

Traditional (SMAS) Facelift

Unfortunately, aging inevitably brings visible facial changes, such as deep lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, or loss of volume. If you are unhappy with the effects of aging on your facial skin and contours and want a more youthful and refreshed appearance, a traditional SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) facelift might be the answer. This surgical procedure addresses both surface-level skin concerns and underlying facial tissues for natural, long-lasting results.

Our board-certified plastic surgeon and leader in cosmetic facial surgery, Dr. David Pincus, provides deep-plane facelifts in Long Island, New York.

Am I a Candidate for a SMAS Facelift?

A SMAS facelift is for those who want to address significant signs of aging and desire natural-looking results. Excellent candidates will be:

• In their late 30s  to 70s, with moderate to severe sagging, jowls, or deep nasolabial folds.
• In good health overall, with no medical conditions that would interfere with surgery or recovery.
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit several weeks before and after the procedure to allow proper healing.
• Emotionally ready with realistic expectations and committed to following all recovery instructions.

To learn if you’re a good candidate for SMAS surgery in Long Island, call (631) 352-3556 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pincus. He will assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and individual needs to determine if a SMAS facelift is right for you.

What Are My SMAS Facelift Options?

The SMAS facelift is a customizable procedure that can address different areas of concern.

• Full SMAS Facelift: Rejuvenates the midface, lower face, and neck for a complete transformation in those with significant aging across multiple areas.
• Mini SMAS Facelift: Addresses the mid and lower face for early signs of aging in younger patients or those with mild to moderate concerns.
• SMAS Neck Lift: Targets neck skin and muscles to define the jawline. Typically included in a full SMAS facelift for seamless results, but it can be performed by itself.

Dr. Pincus will explain the results you can expect with each option and recommend the one he feels is best for you based on your anatomy and goals.

How Is a SMAS Facelift Performed?

The SMAS facelift is performed as an outpatient procedure, usually under general anesthesia, but can sometimes be done with deep sedation. To access the underlying connective tissues, the incisions are made along the hairline, around the ears, and, in some cases, under the chin. Dr. Pincus uses meticulous care when making these incisions to minimize visible scarring.

During the procedure, Dr. Pincus separates the skin from the SMAS layer before lifting and tightening the connective tissue to restore youthful contours in the neck and face. The skin is re-draped, and excess skin is removed.

Finally, Dr. Pincus closes the incisions using advanced techniques and applies the surgical dressings. The SMAS facelift takes three to six hours, depending on complexity and if other procedures are added.

What Is Recovery After a SMAS Facelift Like?

Recovery from a SMAS facelift varies widely among patients but generally follows these stages:

Swelling and bruising are most noticeable during the first few days, with some tightness, numbness, or discomfort to be expected, which can be managed with medication prescribed by Dr. Pincus. Patients are advised to rest with their heads elevated and refrain from all strenuous activities.

During the second week of facelift recovery, swelling and bruising start to improve, most patients can resume light daily activities, and stitches or staples are usually removed.

Around three to six weeks after a SMAS facelift, most patients can go back to work, swelling is significantly reduced, and patients will begin to see early results.

Between the second and sixth months of recovery, swelling is virtually undetectable, patients can see their close-to-final results, and their fading scars are beginning to blend with the surrounding skin.

Follow Dr. Pincus’ post-op instructions, which include no heavy lifting, proper wound care, attending follow-ups, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for optimal healing and satisfying long-term results.