If you’ve done some research on facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery, odds are, you’ve heard that there are different types of surgeries that use different techniques. One of the more advanced techniques cosmetic doctors use is the SMAS method.
Although each meloplasty method generally has a good satisfaction rate, each procedure has to consider the patient’s unique anatomy and goals. So, what works for one person might not work for another. This means it can be helpful to learn about what the differences are and whether a particular technique may suit your needs.
Before you embark on your SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery, you should familiarise yourself with what the procedure involves, what it can achieve, and the risks and recovery. Here, we will explore what you need to know before your SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy).
If you wish to speak to a cosmetic doctor about whether this procedure is a good option for you, book a consultation with Dr Rastogi in Sydney, or via video consultation if you are travelling.
What is SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery?
SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) is becoming very popular due to its ability to go beneath the surface layer of the facial skin. Rather than simply removing excess skin, the SMAS technique involves targeting the underlying facial structures.
The surgery addresses the lower two-thirds of the face, which is prone to signs of ageing. Dr Rastogi makes incisions carefully along the hairline then targets the underlying facial tissue and structures. He repositions the skin and connective tissue beneath, specifically the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), the thin, muscular layer that covers the cheek area.
By targeting this underlying connective tissue as well as the skin above, Dr Rastogi is able to make strategic adjustments to the facial contours. This, in turn, helps to address concerns about jowls, descent of facial fat, and excess or loose skin.
How does it differ from traditional meloplasty or rhytidectomy?
The SMAS meloplasty may sound similar to the traditional facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) procedure. But there are key differences.
Until recent years, facelifts only addressed the surface layer of facial skin. Sometimes, this could lead to a pulled or unwanted appearance. But facial ageing is not just skin deep – it also affects the facial fat, muscles, and other tissues that experience the effects of gravity and natural ageing. Therefore, in modern times, many cosmetic doctors prefer to use techniques that also address the deeper tissues of the face to help achieve the desired results.
In other words, the SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) does not simply adjust the facial skin, as in the traditional method. Instead, Dr Rastogi adjusts the SMAS facial structure beneath (or simply, a facial muscle lift). This aids the longevity of results and allows for a more thorough adjustment of the facial tissue.
Candidates for SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy)
There are a few requirements to be a candidate for an SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy).
Goals and expectations
It should go without saying that cosmetic surgery isn’t for everyone. A suitable candidate is someone who has cosmetic concerns that can be addressed with an SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy), such as loose skin in the lower and mid-face. In addition, they should have reasonable, achievable goals and expectations.
The procedure is generally most appropriate for people who have moderate or significant signs of ageing. This means if you are younger or only have mild ageing signs, it may be better to explore other cosmetic options such as wrinkle treatment or volume treatment.
General health
One reason it’s important to consult with a professional before undergoing surgery is that patients need to be deemed physically healthy. Often, this means they should be at a healthy weight and have a balanced and nutritious diet.
If you are taking any medications, Dr Rastogi will need to know about them. Certain medications, such as blood thinners like aspirin, should not be taken before surgery because they can increase surgical risks.
Smoking status
A factor that can increase a person’s risk of complications is their smoking status. Smoking takes a toll on the body over time, affecting oxygen levels and the body’s ability to heal after surgery. It can also affect your skin elasticity, which can impact whether or not you are a candidate. Therefore, candidates should be willing to quit smoking, at least for a period of time before and after the procedure.
What to know about risks and recovery
Future patients should also be aware of the risks involved and what to expect after their SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy). There will be a recovery period during which you will have to get plenty of rest, sleep with your head elevated, and take good care of your incision sites.
Some levels of discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common. But less commonly, the possible complications of SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery can include:
- Infection
- Large or visible scars
- Poor or slow healing
- Bleeding
- Seroma
- Cosmetic issues
- Reactions to anaesthesia
- Other surgical risks
Although the procedure is considered long-lasting and more thorough than a traditional meloplasty or rhytidectomy, the results won’t stop the ageing process. Since each person has a slightly different anatomy and an individualised procedure, many factors can affect the results and how long they last. However, generally, practising good skincare and having a healthy lifestyle can help maintain the outcomes of an SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy).
Book your consultation with Dr Rastogi for SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) in Sydney
Deciding to undergo an SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery should be preceded by extensive research and deliberation. Interested patients should seek the advice of a cosmetic doctor who prioritises their needs and surgical goals.
Dr Rastogi is committed to the well-being, comfort, and satisfaction of his patients. With his knowledge of cosmetic treatments, he can advise a treatment plan that accommodates your skin condition, motivations, and aesthetic goals. Dr Rastogi can also answer any questions to help ensure you approach your surgery well-informed and prepared.
If you are interested in this cosmetic procedure, get in touch with Dr Rastogi’s team in Sydney for a consultation about SMAS facelift (meloplasty or rhytidectomy) surgery.
