Facelift: The Latest Facial Rejuvenation Technologies

Modern facelift: the evolution of techniques over the last decade

Over the last 10 years, plastic surgery has made significant progress, and facelifts are no longer procedures that leave the face looking like a “mask.”

Modern facelifts are a harmonious rejuvenation that takes into account the natural contours of the face and the individual characteristics of the patient, and has long-lasting results.

Compared to facelifts performed 10 or more years ago, modern facelift techniques have many advantages, including:

• Minimal trauma. Previously, operations involved significant incisions and a long rehabilitation period. Now, procedures have become less invasive, and modern methods allow for a shorter recovery period.
• Focus on deep structures. In the past, facelifts were limited to the skin, which led to artificial tightening and short-term results. Today, top plastic surgeons work with deep tissues, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which gives a more natural and long-lasting result.
• Combination with minimally invasive methods. Surgical facelifts are now often complemented by laser resurfacing and fat injections (lipofilling), which contribute to comprehensive rejuvenation.

Thanks to new approaches and the use of modern technologies, the risk of postoperative complications is significantly reduced.

SMAS lifting: a real alternative to surgery or a marketing ploy?

SMAS lifting is one of the most effective methods of facial rejuvenation, during which the plastic surgeon works not only on the skin but also on deeper tissues. This method is an excellent alternative to a classic facelift.

SMAS is a superficial muscular aponeurotic system formed by the facial fascia, subcutaneous connective tissue, and facial muscles. Age-related changes affect not only the surface layer but also the SMAS, so a classic skin lift only provides a short-term effect or can give the operated face a “mask effect.”

SMAS lifting, on the other hand, makes it possible to correct age-related changes on many levels and achieve natural results.

There are different types of modern SMAS lifting:

1. Classic SMAS lifting. This is a surgical procedure in which the SMAS layer is separated, moved, and secured, giving a long-lasting and natural result.
2. Minimally invasive SMAS lifting. There are techniques that involve micro-incisions and endoscopic intervention, which minimizes scarring and shortens recovery time.
3. Hardware lifting methods. For example, ultrasonic SMAS lifting promises a facelift without surgery. However, such techniques can only produce moderate results that are incomparable to those of a real surgical facelift. Hardware SMAS lifting methods can be a good preventive measure against age-related changes in young patients, but they cannot completely replace surgical facelifts in more mature patients.

What will the results of a facelift be in 5–10 years?

The actual results of a facelift depend on several factors: the technique used, the experience and professionalism of the surgeon, the genetic characteristics of the patient's skin, lifestyle, and facial care after the operation.

The plastic surgeon will definitely recommend that the patient use sunscreen, lead a healthy lifestyle, and completely give up bad habits after the end of rehabilitation.

After 1 year, the face looks significantly younger compared to its pre-operative appearance, nasolabial folds disappear, the oval is tightened, and the skin becomes smoother and more elastic.

If the facelift is done correctly, the effect lasts for 5-10 years, and the face does not look “overdone”; aging occurs gradually and naturally.

After 10 years, the patient may be advised to repeat the procedure if desired. However, the face will still look younger than people who have not had a facelift.

Today, a facelift is not just “smoothing out wrinkles,” but a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. Thanks to modern techniques, we can achieve a natural effect where the face looks young and supple, but not artificial.

If you are planning to have a facelift, it is worth consulting with leading Ukrainian plastic surgeon Dmytro Slosser, who will select the optimal technique for you.