Table of Contents

Comprehensive Rejuvenation for a More Youthful Appearance

As the face ages, it’s not just the skin that changes. The underlying SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) also sags and shifts, pulling your features downward and creating jowls, deep folds, and a tired appearance. A surface-level lift won’t solve that, but a SMAS facelift will. At Accents Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Mark Berkowitz specializes in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques, including the SMAS facelift. This surgical procedure targets deep facial structures, lifting and repositioning them for long-lasting, elegant results. You'll still look like yourself, just years younger and far more refreshed.

woman smiling and crossing her arms

What Is a SMAS Facelift?

A SMAS facelift is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the SMAS layer, the deep tissues and muscles beneath the skin, rather than just pulling the surface skin tight. Correcting these foundational structures restores more natural mid-face, jawline, and neck contours without the overdone, "windblown" look.

The SMAS facelift is often considered the gold standard for moderate to advanced facial aging. It offers more dramatic and durable improvements than a mini lift or skin-only facelift.

Half flower

Book Your Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media

The Benefits of a SMAS Facelift

  • Comprehensive Rejuvenation: It corrects sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and neck for full lower-face improvement.
  • Natural Movement: Lifting deeper structures preserves facial expression and avoids an overly tight appearance.
  • Long-Lasting Results: With proper skincare and healthy habits, improvements from an SMAS facelift typically last 10–15 years.
  • Customized to You: The procedure is tailored to your specific aging patterns and anatomy for the most harmonious results.
  • Improved Facial Contours: It restores a more defined jawline, smoother neckline, and youthful cheek volume.
  • Boosted Confidence: Patients often report increased self-assurance in both professional and social settings.
Background media

Is a SMAS Facelift Right for Me?

You may be a strong candidate for a SMAS facelift if:

  • You’re experiencing significant sagging in the lower face or neck
  • You want more dramatic, long-term results than a mini lift can offer
  • You are in good overall health and a non-smoker
  • You’re emotionally and mentally prepared for surgery and recovery
  • You desire rejuvenation that looks natural, not overdone

During a consultation, Dr. Berkowitz will evaluate your skin elasticity, facial structure, and aesthetic goals to determine whether the SMAS facelift or a different technique is your best option.

What to Expect Your SMAS Facelift

Private Consultation

Dr. Berkowitz will assess your facial anatomy, review your goals, and determine if the SMAS facelift is the right technique for you.

Surgical Planning

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia in our accredited surgical facility. Incisions are discreetly made around the ears and possibly into the hairline.

Precision Lifting

Dr. Berkowitz lifts and repositions the SMAS layer, then re-drapes the overlying skin for smooth, natural contours. Excess skin is trimmed.

Closing and Recovery

Incisions are meticulously closed with fine sutures to minimize scarring. You’ll be monitored closely and receive detailed aftercare instructions.

Post-Surgical Follow-Up

You’ll return for scheduled follow-ups to ensure optimal healing and beautiful, lasting results.

Background media

SMAS Facelift Results & Recovery

Initial recovery takes 10–14 days, during which swelling, bruising, and tightness are expected. Most patients return to social activities within 2 to 3 weeks, with full results improving over the following months.

Your outcome? A rested, defined, and more youthful version of yourself, with results that can last a decade or more.

Logo media

Why Choose Accents Cosmetic Surgery?

Dr. Mark Berkowitz is one of Michigan’s leading facial rejuvenation experts. As a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, he brings unparalleled skill, safety, and artistry to every SMAS facelift procedure. He combines surgical precision with an aesthetic eye to deliver results that never look tight, pulled, or artificial. At Accents, you’ll also experience:

  • A supportive, highly trained team
  • A calm, accredited surgical environment
  • Honest expectations and personalized planning
  • Natural-looking outcomes that reflect your unique beauty

Let’s Rewind the Clock

Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Berkowitz at Accents today so we can determine if a SMAS facelift is right for you.

Banner media

Frequently Asked Questions SMAS Facelift

What makes a SMAS facelift different from a traditional facelift?

The SMAS facelift goes deeper than a skin-only lift, addressing the muscle and connective tissue for longer-lasting, more natural results.

Will I have scars?

Incisions are placed discreetly around the ears and into the hairline. Once healed, they’re typically very difficult to see.

How long do results last?

Most patients enjoy their SMAS facelift results for 10–15 years, depending on genetics and lifestyle.

When can I return to work?

Many patients return to work or light activity within 2 weeks. Full healing and final results take several months.

Can a SMAS facelift be combined with other procedures?

Yes—Dr. Berkowitz often combines it with eyelid surgery, a neck lift, or laser treatments for even more comprehensive rejuvenation.

Book Your Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (866) 853-5674.
Contact Us