For many adults, graceful aging is closely tied to enhancing their outer appearance. As wrinkles increase and jowls begin to sag, many often consider a facelift or neck lift. As you research your options, you may have seen the phrases SMAS and MACS when referring to face and neck lifts. But what do these phrases mean and which one is best for you?
Here we explain the difference between both techniques and how Dr. Chang and Dr. Wang at Columbia Aesthetic Plastic Surgery combine the principles of the SMAS with the MACS to deliver long-lasting, natural-looking results with shorter incisions and minimal scarring.
What Does a Facelift Address?
The idea of a facelift is often misleading. When you hear the name, you assume it is a procedure designed to address signs of aging on the face. In reality, a facelift only addresses the middle and lower part of the face, including the cheeks, jowls, areas around the mouth, the chin, and the neck. To address concerns on the upper part of your face, consider adding eyelid or browlift surgery or non-surgical injectable treatments along with your facelift procedure.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift targets the underlying deep muscle layer and tissues known as the SMAS. The SMAS works similarly to a hammock in the face, helping to counteract the effects of gravity that contribute to the signs of aging. The SMAS technique involves lifting and tightening the SMAS layer to provide a more natural and long-lasting improvement in facial contours.
By addressing the deeper structures, the SMAS facelift helps reduce sagging, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance overall facial definition, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance. However, because of the deeper tissue manipulation, this procedure requires longer incisions and can contribute to more noticeable bruising post-procedure.
What Is a MACS Facelift?
The MACS (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) facelift is a modern facial rejuvenation technique that focuses on providing natural results with minimal invasiveness. Unlike the SMAS procedure, the MACS procedure involves making small, strategically placed incisions around the hairline and ears.
Through these incisions, the underlying facial tissues are lifted and suspended using sutures to create a smoother, more youthful appearance. The MACS facelift is known for its shorter recovery time and reduced scarring compared to traditional facelift methods, making it an attractive option for those seeking facial rejuvenation with less downtime.
Combine Both For Enhanced Results
At Columbia Aesthetics, Dr. Chang and Dr. Wang combine the main principles of both facelift techniques to achieve superior facelift results. You achieve the long-lasting and natural-looking results common with an SMAS procedure with the short incisions and limited downtime of the MACS option.
If you are considering a facelift, Dr. Chang and Dr. Wang will work with you to create a unique surgical approach that takes into consideration your bone structure, skin elasticity, and the extent of wrinkling and sagging skin. Call 410-740-9330 to schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a new you!
Author: Dr. Eric Chang
Few plastic surgeons offer Dr. Eric Chang’s rare blend of impressive credentials and genuine compassion. After becoming a board-certified plastic surgeon, he returned to his home state and established Columbia Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, one of the premier cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery practices between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.
