What 'SMAS' and 'deep plane' actually refer to
The superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS) is the structural layer of the face that drapes over the deeper facial muscles and connects to the platysma in the neck. Every modern facelift works on this layer — the difference is at what depth, and in how many vectors.
A SMAS facelift lifts the SMAS as a separate layer from the overlying skin. A deep plane facelift releases the SMAS along with the overlying skin as a single composite flap, dissecting one layer deeper. This composite movement repositions the midface, jowl and neck in one continuous unit.
Practical differences for patients
| Factor | SMAS facelift | Deep plane facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Mild–moderate jowls, neck laxity | Midface descent, deep nasolabial folds |
| Operative time | 3–4 hours | 5–6 hours |
| Bruising | Moderate, 10–14 days | Slightly less — single flap |
| Numbness | Resolves 3–6 months | Resolves 4–8 months |
| Longevity | 8–10 years | 10–15 years |
| Cost (Istanbul) | €7,000–€9,000 | €9,500–€13,000 |
Which one is right for you
Deep plane is not a universally better operation; it is a better operation for the right anatomy. Patients with significant midface descent — flattening of the cheek and deepening of the nasolabial fold — benefit most from the composite repositioning.
Patients whose primary concern is the jawline and neck often get an excellent result from extended SMAS with platysmaplasty, with shorter recovery. The right operation is the one that addresses your specific anatomical changes, not the most expensive option on the menu.
At your consultation, Dr. Barutcu marks the areas of descent in three dimensions and discusses which technique each area requires. Hybrid approaches — deep plane for the midface, SMAS plication for the lower face — are common in practice.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is deep plane facelift more dangerous?+
In trained hands the risk profile is comparable. The dissection passes deeper to the facial nerve branches, which requires meticulous technique — surgeon experience matters more than technique label.
Will I look 'pulled' after either?+
Properly performed, neither technique should produce a wind-tunnel look. Tension is placed on the SMAS, not the skin — the modern signature of a good facelift is invisibility, not tightness.
Can deep plane be combined with eyelid surgery?+
Yes, and frequently is. Combining facelift with upper and lower blepharoplasty in one anaesthetic is safe and adds no significant complication risk.
How long does the result last?+
A deep plane facelift typically gives 10–15 years of effect; a SMAS facelift 8–10 years. The face continues to age — you will always look better than if you had not had it done.
Explore further
Continue your research on the clinic site
Next step
Interested in learning whether this procedure is right for you?
Schedule a personalised consultation with Dr. Ümmü Gülsüm Barutcu in Istanbul to discuss your goals and receive a tailored treatment plan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Gülsüm Barutcu
Dr. Ümmü Gülsüm Barutcu
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon · Istanbul, Turkey
Dr. Barutcu cares for international patients with an emphasis on personalised planning, ethical decision-making and natural-looking outcomes. Her practice is built on patient safety, informed consent and an unhurried approach to every consultation.
Last reviewed: 22 May 2026
