SMAS Facelift

Good candidates for a SMAS facelift are individuals who are experiencing signs of ageing that include sagging facial skin, deep creases around the nose and mouth, jowls, and a lack of definition in the neck. Key considerations for candidacy include:

• Age and Skin Elasticity: While there is no specific age limit for a SMAS facelift, candidates typically range from their 40s to 70s. Good skin elasticity can contribute to more effective and lasting results
• Overall Health: Candidates should be in good general health, without any underlying medical conditions that could impair healing or increase surgical risks
• Non-smokers or Willingness to Quit: Smoking can significantly hinder the healing process. Candidates who smoke must be willing to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery and during the recovery period
• Realistic Expectations: Understanding the possibilities and limitations of a SMAS facelift is crucial. Candidates should have a realistic expectation of the outcome and be seeking improvement rather than perfection
• Psychological Stability: Emotional stability and a clear understanding of the motivation for undergoing a SMAS facelift are important for a positive surgical experience and outcome

During a consultation, Dr. Watts will evaluate these factors, discuss the individual’s aesthetic goals, and determine whether a SMAS facelift is the most suitable approach for achieving the desired results.

• Tightens underlying facial muscles
• Effectively addresses sagging in the mid-face, jowls, and neck area, providing a more pronounced and lasting improvement compared to skin-only facelifts
• Improves facial contours
• Offers more durable results compared to less invasive facelift techniques, with effects that can last for many years
• By adjusting deeper layers of the face, the SMAS facelift can yield results that look more natural

The SMAS facelift procedure, as performed by Dr. Guy Watts, involves several key steps:

• Anaesthesia: The procedure requires general anaesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the surgery
• Making the Incisions: Dr. Watts will make incisions that usually start in the hairline at the temples, continue around the ear, and end in the lower scalp. The pattern of the incision and the technique used will be tailored to the individual’s facial structure and specific goals
• Adjusting the SMAS Layer: Once the incisions are made, Dr. Watts will carefully lift and reposition the SMAS layer. This involves tightening the underlying muscle and fibrous tissue, repositioning the fat, and removing excess skin to achieve an altered facial contour
• Closing the Incisions: After the SMAS layer has been adjusted, the skin is redraped over the new contours, and any excess skin is removed. The incisions are then meticulously closed with sutures, ensuring that the scars are as inconspicuous as possible
• Recovery: Post-operative care instructions will be provided to support a smooth and effective recovery

Recovery from a SMAS facelift, as with any surgical procedure, requires time and careful attention to post-operative instructions:

• Immediate Post-Operative Care: Following the surgery, patients will have dressings on their face to minimise swelling and bruising. Dr. Watts may also place drains to remove excess fluid. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort
• First Few Days: Swelling and bruising are common and will peak within the first few days. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated and avoid any strenuous activities
• Follow-Up Visits: Patients will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Watts within the first week to remove sutures and assess the healing process
• Returning to Normal Activities: Most patients can return to work and light activities within two weeks. However, it is recommended to avoid vigorous physical activity for at least four to six weeks
• Long-Term Care: Protecting the skin from the sun, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following a skincare routine are important for sustaining the results of the surgery

Dr. Watts and his team provide comprehensive guidance and support throughout the recovery process, ensuring that each patient’s journey towards rejuvenation is as comfortable and successful as possible.