Why SMAS Layer Fixation Is Important in Mini Facelift Surgery

A mini facelift is a surgery chosen not only to address the natural aging process,

but also when sagging occurs due to various causes such as

sudden weight changes, genetic factors, side effects of cosmetic procedures, and occupational factors.

It can change the contours of the face and create an impression of fatigue or looking older.

Mini facelift

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

A mini facelift has the advantage of a smaller incision area and faster recovery than a traditional full-face facelift.

Through a minimal incision around the earlobe, it improves marionette lines and sagging along the jawline.

After a mini facelift, overall sagging and wrinkles can be naturally improved, making the facial line appear smoother.

It is mainly visited by patients in their 20s to 40s whose skin sagging is not severe.

It lifts each layer of the face at the same time, and by pulling multiple layers simultaneously, from the fascial layer that causes sagging to the surface skin,

the duration of the lifting effect can become longer.

It also adjusts the retaining ligaments at an appropriate position.

In a facelift, if there are firmly fixed retaining ligaments around the cheekbone, it may be difficult to effectively lift the sagging tissue in front of them.

Therefore, to improve midface cheek sagging and sagging around the mouth,

it is important to adjust the retaining ligaments in the cheekbone area.

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

If dissection is performed in the middle of the subcutaneous layer rather than directly above the SMAS layer,

many blood vessels can be damaged, which may cause bleeding.

As a result, bruising or swelling after surgery may last for a long time.

For faster recovery, dissection can be performed directly above the SMAS layer to minimize bleeding and postoperative swelling.

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

Another possible side effect of a facelift is deformation of the earlobe area.

If only the skin is pulled tightly and sutured, or if the forcibly tightened skin goes back down, it can affect the shape of the earlobe.

To prevent this, the SMAS layer is pulled together to reduce skin tension,

and to minimize earlobe deformation, the earlobe is fixed to the fascia when suturing the skin.

A mini facelift offers an effective method for improving facial contours,

and SMAS layer fixation in particular plays an important role in the longevity of the result and a natural-looking lift.

It is important to establish an appropriate surgical plan for each case and receive the surgery that is right for you.

※ Depending on the individual, side effects such as inflammation, bleeding, and nerve damage may occur, so sufficient consultation with the medical staff before surgery is necessary.

This is an example image to help with understanding.