At Kensington Medical, our GMC Specialist Register plastic surgeons are experienced in performing SMAS facelifts. We specialise exclusively in facial plastic surgery, offering a personalised approach to facial rejuvenation at our Harley Street and Wimbledon clinics.
The SMAS facelift, including variations such as SMAS Plication, SMASectomy, Extended SMAS and High SMAS, is an established surgical facelift technique. If you are looking for natural-looking results that address the visible signs of facial ageing, a SMAS facelift may be a suitable option. Results can be long-lasting, with some patients enjoying improvements for up to 10 years, although this varies between individuals.
SMAS stands for Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, a layer of muscle-associated and fibrous tissue beneath the skin that contributes to facial support. As we age, changes in these underlying tissues can contribute to sagging cheeks, jowls, reduced jawline definition and downturned corners of the mouth, often described as a “sad mouth look”. SMAS facelift surgery lifts and repositions these tissues to rejuvenate the mid and lower face, helping to soften the appearance of marionette lines and improve facial contours. It may also improve mild skin laxity in the upper neck.
At Kensington Medical, our specialist plastic surgeons adjust the SMAS facelift technique to your individual facial anatomy and goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will explain the expected results, recovery time and whether a SMAS facelift or an alternative technique would be most appropriate for you.
This page was medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), Medical Director, GMC number 2939470 on 30 October 2026 .
We focus exclusively on facial procedures
UK based GMC Specialist Register plastic surgeons
Over 90 years of combined surgical experience across our team
Hundreds of facelifts and neck lifts performed
Different techniques, personalised advice: SMAS, deep plane, mini and lower facelifts, with an explanation of which approach suits your face and why
Personal support: clear preparation advice, time for questions and follow-up appointments
Consultations in Harley Street and Wimbledon
Surgery in CQC registered hospitals in Central London and Wimbledon
A SMAS facelift is a surgical facial rejuvenation procedure that works on the underlying support layer of the face, rather than simply tightening the skin. By lifting and repositioning the SMAS tissue, your plastic surgeon can improve sagging cheeks, jowls and jawline definition while maintaining your natural facial expressions.
The SMAS layer lies beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat and is closely connected to the facial muscles. As we age, changes in skin elasticity, facial fat and the underlying supporting tissues contribute to facial sagging. By addressing these deeper structures, a SMAS facelift can create a more defined mid and lower face with natural-looking results.
There are different SMAS facelift techniques, including:
SMAS Plication
SMASectomy
Extended SMAS
High SMAS
We explain each of these four SMAS facelift techniques in more detail in our FAQs below, including how they differ and which patients may benefit from each approach.
At Kensington Medical, our specialist plastic surgeons assess which SMAS technique is most suitable for your facial structure. This includes examining skin laxity, facial tissue descent, loss of cheek volume, sagging jowls, prominent nasolabial folds and looseness in the neck.
Mr Tulley Consultant Plastic Surgeon explains,
"Understanding which SMAS method to use is based on many different factors and applied individually on each patient to get the optimal results".
A SMAS facelift can improve several visible signs of facial ageing, particularly in the cheeks, lower face and jawline. Depending on the technique used and your individual facial anatomy, it may help address:
Sagging jowls: Loose or descending facial tissues around the lower cheeks and jawline, which can reduce jawline definition.
Sad mouth lines or marionette lines: Lines running downwards from the corners of the mouth towards the chin, which can contribute to a sad or downturned mouth appearance.
Nasolabial folds: Prominent folds running from the sides of the nose towards the corners of the mouth, which may be softened by repositioning the facial tissues.
Sagging cheeks: Descending cheek tissues that contribute to a loss of youthful facial contours.
Neck laxity or turkey neck: Mild to moderate looseness in the upper neck may improve with certain SMAS facelift techniques. More significant neck ageing may require a separate neck lift.
Many patients choose a SMAS facelift because they want to look naturally refreshed without appearing noticeably different. Recovery varies depending on the technique and extent of surgery. Some patients feel comfortable returning to desk based work within one to two weeks, although swelling and bruising can take longer to settle.
At Kensington Medical, your plastic surgeon will assess your face and neck to recommend the most suitable facelift technique for your individual concerns.
A SMAS facelift offers several benefits for patients looking to improve the visible signs of facial ageing while maintaining a natural-looking appearance.
Natural-looking facelift results: By lifting and repositioning the underlying facial tissues, a SMAS facelift can create a refreshed appearance while preserving your natural facial expressions.
Improved jowls and jawline definition: Lifting sagging tissues in the lower face can reduce the appearance of jowls and restore a more defined jawline.
Lifted cheeks and improved midface contours: Certain SMAS techniques can reposition descended cheek tissues, helping to restore a fuller, more youthful-looking midface and soften prominent nasolabial folds.
Improvement in marionette lines and the sad mouth look: Repositioning the lower facial tissues may soften lines around the mouth and improve the appearance of downturned mouth corners, although it may not fully correct them.
Improved neck contours: Depending on the SMAS technique used, surgery may improve mild to moderate upper neck laxity. Patients with more significant neck ageing may benefit from combining their facelift with a neck lift.
Long-lasting facelift results: SMAS facelift results can last for many years, often around 8–10 years or longer, depending on the technique, individual ageing process and other factors. No facelift can permanently stop the natural ageing process.
Discreet scarring: Incisions are carefully positioned around the natural contours of the ears and, where appropriate, within the hairline to make scars less noticeable once healed. All surgery leaves some scarring.
A personalised surgical approach: SMAS Plication, SMASectomy, Extended SMAS and High SMAS offer different approaches to facial lifting. At Kensington Medical, our specialist plastic surgeons recommend the technique most appropriate for your facial anatomy, skin laxity and desired results.
At Kensington Medical, SMAS facelift surgery starts from £11,500. The final cost depends on the surgical technique recommended and your individual requirements. A personalised quotation will be provided following your consultation.
At Kensington Medical our patients generally come because they have many signs of ageing and want to look refreshed and naturally younger. We have patients who see us because their non surgical dermal fillers or non surgical treatments are no longer working. They feel they are spending a lot of money to maintain something that does not give them the natural look they want.
We see individuals in their 40s, 50s and 60s. However, a SMAS can also be offered to someone in their 70’s provided they do not have excessive skin laxity.
Younger patients in their 30s and early 40s may benefit from less invasive techniques, while older patients typically do require more extensive procedures.
Having a face to face consultation with our experienced plastic surgeon should help answer any questions and concerns you have.
There are a number of different types of facelifts. Mr Gateley and Mr Tulley are experts in the SMAS and will discuss what they can achieve for you in consultation.
|
SMAS Technique |
What happens | Reasons why it is chosen | Recovery time |
| SMAS Plication | The SMAS layer is folded and stitched down, nothing is cut or removed | Mild to moderate sagging, most simple technique, thinner tissue, a more limited lift | Great for working people, 7-10 days off work, back to work at 10 days to 2 weeks |
| SMASectomy | A strip of the SMAS layer is cut and the edges are stitched together | Thicker SMAS tissue, there is a more defined direct lift. It can avoid the bulk that plication can cause | 10 to 14 days |
| Extended SMAS | SMAS dissection is carried down further into the neck | Neck laxity and neck bands plus lower face ageing such as sagging jowls | 2 weeks up to 3 weeks |
| High SMAS | SMAS dissection extends to above the cheekbone | Midface has sagging, nasolabial folds are prominent, cheek hollowing | 2 weeks up to 3 weeks |
The SMAS facelift typically lasts 10 years. It does depend on what SMAS method that is used. The SMAS placation lasts 5-7 years. SMASectomy/Extended SMAS/ High SMAS last 8-10+ years.
During your consultation, Mr Gateley or Mr Tulley will assess your facial anatomy, jawline and neck to recommend the most suitable facelift technique. For patients with more significant facial sagging, a deep plane facelift may be considered.
You can learn more about the differences between SMAS and deep plane surgery on our Deep Plane Facelift treatment page.
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions when considering a SMAS facelift. Different facelift techniques require specialist knowledge of facial anatomy, and the most appropriate approach will depend on your individual facial structure, degree of ageing and desired results.
At Kensington Medical, we specialise exclusively in facial plastic surgery. Our GMC Specialist Register plastic surgeons have extensive experience in facial rejuvenation and will take the time to explain the different surgical options available to you.
During your consultation, your surgeon will show you examples of their SMAS facelift before-and-after photographs, discuss the results you can realistically expect and explain the recovery time for your recommended procedure.
In some cases, your surgeon may recommend an alternative approach, such as a High SMAS or Deep Plane Facelift, particularly where there is more extensive facial tissue descent or skin laxity. Our priority is to recommend the procedure most appropriate for your individual needs, rather than a particular facelift technique.
A Deep Plane Facelift is another established facial rejuvenation technique that may be recommended for patients with more significant facial tissue descent, particularly in the cheeks, jowls and lower face.
Unlike SMAS techniques that primarily lift or tighten the SMAS layer, a Deep Plane Facelift involves releasing specific retaining ligaments and repositioning the deeper facial tissues, including the SMAS and overlying skin, together. This can allow your surgeon to lift descended cheek tissues and improve facial contours without relying on excessive skin tension.
Both SMAS and Deep Plane Facelift techniques can achieve natural looking, long lasting results. The most suitable approach depends on your facial anatomy, degree of skin laxity, ageing concerns and your surgeon's clinical assessment.
At Kensington Medical, our specialist plastic surgeons are experienced in facial rejuvenation and will recommend the technique most appropriate for your individual needs.
For a detailed comparison of the techniques, benefits and recovery, read our SMAS vs Deep Plane Facelift guide.
A SMAS facelift involves lifting and repositioning the underlying facial tissues to improve sagging cheeks, jowls and jawline definition. The precise surgical approach will depend on the SMAS technique recommended by your plastic surgeon and your individual facial anatomy.
1. Anaesthesia and surgical markings
Before your operation, your plastic surgeon will carefully mark the areas to be treated and confirm the surgical plan with you. At Kensington Medical, SMAS facelifts are typically performed under general anaesthesia.
2. Incisions
Your surgeon will make carefully positioned incisions, typically around the natural contours of the ears and, where appropriate, within the hairline. The position and length of the incisions will depend on the extent of surgery required.
3. Lifting and repositioning the SMAS layer
Your surgeon will lift, tighten or reposition the SMAS layer using the technique most appropriate for your facial anatomy. This helps improve sagging facial tissues, restore jawline definition and create natural-looking facial contours.
4. Removing excess skin
Once the underlying tissues have been repositioned, any excess skin is carefully redraped and removed where necessary. The aim is to create a smoother facial contour without excessive tension on the skin.
5. Closing the incisions
The incisions are carefully closed using sutures. You will then be transferred to the recovery room, where the nursing team will monitor you as you recover from the anaesthetic.
At Kensington Medical, a SMAS facelift typically takes 2–3.5 hours, depending on the surgical technique and extent of the procedure.
For more information about preparing for surgery, recovery and our personalised aftercare, please see Your Journey with Kensington Medical below.
As with any surgical procedure, facelift surgery carries certain risks that patients should be aware of before proceeding. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, numbness, and mild discomfort, which last a few weeks. A potential complication is a hematoma, which usually requires prompt drainage. In very rare cases there is a risk of nerve injury that could result in temporary or, in very rare cases, permanent facial asymmetry or muscle weakness. Additionally, your overall health, skin quality, and the degree of facial ageing will play a role in determining your suitability for a facelift procedure. Open communication with your surgeon about your medical history and expectations will help ensure a safe and satisfying experience.
At Kensington Medical our team of plastic surgeons take great care to advise on the best facelft suited to your face, structure, skin laxity and muscle tone. Find out what facelft is best for you.
The results of a SMAS facelift are long lasting, typically around 8 to 10 years and longer. However, this varies depending on the SMAS technique used, skin quality, lifestyle and individual ageing process.
Of course we can't delay natural ageing. Following good lifestyle choices can certainly help. These include the following:
· Keeping a healthy lifestyle, eating well avoiding too much alcohol.
· Regular exercise to ensure circulation.
· Avoiding the direct sunlight, using high SPF sunblock and wearing a hat.
· Having enough sleep.
· Looking after your skin ensuring you use the right moisturisers and actives.
· Drinking plenty of water and avoiding too much sugar.
Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including how to care for your incisions, manage discomfort, and reduce swelling.
Knowing the potential risks and complications, such as facial nerve injury or delayed wound healing goes a long way to recovery. Attending your follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon is an opportunity to cover off any concerns you may have.
A SMAS facelift is often combined with other procedures associated with ageing such as an upper eyelid lift (upper blepharoplasty) or an eye bag removal (lower blepharoplasty). A brow lift can also be considered to elevate the eyebrows, smooth the forehead, and achieve facial harmony.
SMAS facelifts are often carried out with upper or lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and other facial cosmetic procedures to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
A blepharoplasty removes excess fat and tightens the skin in the areas around the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids or eye bags, or both. This is a popular combination and we do many procedures with both the facelift and eyes.
A SMAS facelift can help the neck. However if the neck has a lot of skin laxity , or neck bands our plastic surgeon might suggest a neck lift. Sometimes the neck can age sooner than the face. To obtain a natural look so the face and neck both look natural, our plastic surgeon may suggest a SMAS facelift with a neck lift.
Patients often have skin laxity around the mouth as well as the cheek, mid face and jowls. This lip area of ageing may result in a slightly drooping upper lip which can give an ageing effect on the face. A lip lift with the SMAS facelift can address this surgically.
A SMAS facelift targets the superficial muscular aponeurotic system to lift and tighten the face, and combining it with fat transfer can help restore volume and create a more youthful look. A liposuction procedure will take the fat from other parts of your body, for example the stomach or thigh area.
Fat transfer into areas such as the cheeks or under-eye area adds volume, creating more youthful contours. It increases fullness in the cheek area, nasolabial lines or marionette lines, and the areas around the eyes.
The advantages of fat transfer over dermal fillers include:
There is no rejection issue because the fat comes from the patient
Between 50% and 70% of the amounts injected stay in place permanently
A SMAS facelift tightens the muscle and skin of the face. It will not however help with skin texture. If this is a concern our plastic surgeon can discuss combining a laser treatment with SMAS for smoother skin after surgery. Lasers can increase collagen production, reduce sunspots, or brown spots, resurface the skin to make scars less visible.
In some instances a smash facelift does not help with the brow and outer brow area. A lateral brow lift can help to rejuvenate and open up the eye area.
If you have had a prior facelift and are looking for advice on whether a SMAS surgery or an extended SMAS may help please follwing this link to read about Revision facelift surgery.
At Kensington Medical, we specialise exclusively in facial plastic surgery, offering a personal and supportive experience from your first consultation through to your recovery. Our experienced plastic surgeons take the time to understand your concerns, explain your surgical options and recommend the most suitable approach for your facial anatomy and desired results. With consultations at Harley Street and Wimbledon, we aim to ensure you feel informed, confident and supported throughout your SMAS facelift journey.
Consultation
Your journey begins with a dialogue between you and your surgeon: the pre-operative consultation, which is central to the success of your surgery. At Kensington Medical, patients interested in surgery undergo several consultations with their surgeon. We are keen for our patients to be fully informed before deciding whether to proceed with surgery. Therefore, we encourage them to see their surgeon more than once and ask as many questions as they wish. Typically, our patients have two pre-operative consultations.
The first consultation tends to be face-to-face. During this consultation, your surgeon will:
Listen to your concerns and understand what you would like to achieve.
Examine your face and assess your facial anatomy.
Show you examples of their work in the form of before-and-after photographs.
Suggest a personalised treatment plan.
Following your first consultation, we will:
Write to you summarising your surgeon's recommendations.
Provide a quotation for the treatment plan suggested by your surgeon.
Send you extensive information about the procedure, the risks involved and the precautions you should take before and after surgery.
A second consultation is often necessary for the following reasons:
After your first pre-operative consultation, and once you have reviewed the information sent to you, you may have further questions for your surgeon.
Your surgeon may wish to speak with you again to ensure you fully understand the risks of surgery and know what to expect.
Several treatment options may have been discussed during your first consultation, and a further meeting can help determine which is most appropriate for you.
Your second consultation can also take place face-to-face or, alternatively, via video call.
Following your consultations, our medical team is always available should you have any further questions before your surgery.
Pre-Operative Care
Once you have decided to go ahead with surgery, we will book your operation at one of our specialist cosmetic surgery hospitals.
Before your operation, you will be sent a health questionnaire. This will be reviewed by your anaesthetist, who may contact you to discuss specific aspects of your medical history. In certain cases, you may be required to attend the clinic for blood tests. One of our medical team members will discuss this with you before your scheduled surgery.
We will also provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions. In particular:
Smoking: You will be advised to stop smoking for several weeks before your facelift, as smoking can increase the risk of complications and delayed wound healing.
Medication: Your surgeon and anaesthetist will review your current medications and supplements, including aspirin and other blood-thinning medications. They will advise whether any adjustments are necessary before surgery. You should never stop taking prescribed medication unless instructed by your medical team.
Eating and drinking: You will receive specific fasting instructions from your hospital and anaesthetist, including when to stop eating and drinking before surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully.
On The Day Of The Procedure
You will arrive at least one hour before the time of your procedure. The nursing staff at the hospital will monitor your blood pressure and other relevant essentials. You will then meet your anaesthetist and surgeon for a final markup.
The actual operation involves carefully sculpting and repositioning underlying tissue and fat within the face to create a more youthful contour around the eyes, chin, neckline, and jawline area. The result is smoother skin texture while preserving natural facial expressions throughout different movements. The incisions are then closed using sutures. This will leave small scars hidden along areas such as the hairline or scalp, which can fade over time depending on how well they are cared for.
At Kensington Medical, SMAS facelifts are typically performed under general anaesthesia, with the operation taking approximately 2–3.5 hours, depending on the technique used and the extent of surgery.
Post-Operative Care
Aftercare following a SMAS facelift is an important part of your recovery and achieving the best possible results.
Following your surgery, you will be transferred to the hospital's recovery room, where the nursing team will monitor you closely. You will usually remain there for two to four hours, depending on your procedure and recovery. Once the nursing team is satisfied that you are ready to be discharged, you can return home accompanied by a friend or family member. You should also arrange for someone to stay with you overnight following your operation.
Post-operative discomfort is generally manageable, and you will be provided with appropriate pain relief and instructions on how to take your medication.
Once you have been discharged from hospital, our nursing team will be available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have during your recovery.
Your follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon
Your surgeon will see you at several appointments during the weeks following your SMAS facelift to assess your healing, monitor your incisions and provide ongoing support.
The day after surgery: Your surgeon will check your wounds and dressings and remove any drains, where applicable.
One week after surgery: You will attend a further consultation to assess your healing. Depending on your progress, your surgeon may remove some of your sutures.
Two weeks after surgery: Your surgeon will review your recovery, remove any remaining sutures where appropriate and check your healing.
Six weeks after surgery: You will have a further follow-up consultation to assess your progress. Depending on your recovery, your surgeon may discharge you from routine follow-up care at this stage.
Bruising and swelling are normal following a SMAS facelift and can take several weeks to settle. Some residual swelling, tightness or numbness may persist for longer as the tissues continue to heal.
At Kensington Medical, we believe that attentive aftercare is an essential part of your surgical journey. Our medical team is here to support you throughout your recovery.
Post-Operative Instructions
Our medical team will provide detailed aftercare instructions. These will include advice on caring for your incisions, managing swelling and when it is appropriate to resume normal activities, such as exercising, wearing make-up and returning to your usual daily routine. Following these instructions carefully is important for reducing the risk of complications and supporting your recovery.
Protecting your face from sun exposure is particularly important following facelift surgery, as UV exposure can contribute to scar discolouration and pigmentation changes. Your surgeon will advise when it is appropriate to apply sunscreen to the healing areas. In the meantime, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and avoiding direct sunlight can help protect your skin. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided until your surgeon confirms that it is safe to resume these activities.
Following your surgeon's advice, attending your follow-up appointments and allowing yourself sufficient time to recover will support the healing process and help you achieve the best possible results from your SMAS facelift. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including sufficient rest, balanced nutrition and hydration, is also beneficial during recovery. Smoking should be avoided, and alcohol consumption should be restricted in accordance with your surgeon's instructions.
At Kensington Medical, our experienced GMC Specialist Register plastic surgeons specialise in facial rejuvenation, including SMAS facelift surgery. Each surgeon takes a personalised approach, assessing your facial anatomy, skin laxity and individual concerns before recommending the most suitable facelift technique.
Our surgeons consult at Harley Street and Wimbledon, offering patients expert advice on SMAS facelifts and alternative facial rejuvenation procedures where appropriate.
Mr David Gateley
Mr Amir Sadri
Mr Paul Tulley
What are the risks associated with a SMAS facelift?
As with any surgical procedure, a SMAS facelift carries certain risks and potential complications. During your consultation at Kensington Medical, your plastic surgeon will explain these in detail, discuss your individual risk factors and answer any concerns you may have.
Common side effects following a SMAS facelift include bruising, swelling, temporary numbness and discomfort. These generally improve over the following weeks, although some symptoms may take longer to resolve.
A haematoma (a collection of blood beneath the skin) is one of the more common complications associated with facelift surgery and may require prompt surgical treatment.
General surgical risks include:
Bleeding or haematoma
Infection
Blood clots
Pain or prolonged discomfort
Unfavourable scarring
Less common complications associated with SMAS facelift surgery include:
Temporary or, rarely, permanent facial nerve injury, which may cause facial weakness or asymmetry
Hair loss around the incision sites
Changes in skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation)
Delayed wound healing or loss of skin near the incisions
Facial asymmetry or an unsatisfactory cosmetic result
Persistent numbness or altered skin sensation
At Kensington Medical, our GMC Specialist Register plastic surgeons carefully assess each patient's medical history, facial anatomy and suitability for surgery. Your surgeon will explain the potential benefits, limitations and risks to help you make an informed decision.
What is the recovery time from a SMAS facelift?
Recovery following a SMAS facelift typically takes around 2–3 weeks, although this varies depending on the surgical technique used and your individual healing.
Most patients can return home on the day of surgery, provided they are medically fit for discharge. Some patients who work from home may feel comfortable resuming light, desk-based work during the second week. However, if you need to commute or work in an office environment, we generally recommend allowing 2–3 weeks before returning to work.
Bruising, swelling and tightness are normal following a SMAS facelift and gradually improve over the following weeks. Some residual swelling and numbness can take several months to resolve.
Light walking is encouraged during recovery, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided until your surgeon advises that it is safe to resume these activities, usually around 4–6 weeks after surgery.
At Kensington Medical, your plastic surgeon will provide personalised recovery advice and follow-up care to support your healing.
What scarring can be expected from a SMAS facelift?
Scars from a SMAS facelift are permanent, but your plastic surgeon will carefully position the incisions around the natural contours of the ears and, where appropriate, within the hairline to make them as discreet as possible. Scars generally fade and become less noticeable over time, although their final appearance varies between patients.
For more information about all types of facelift scars visit our facelift scar page.
How soon will I see the results of a SMAS facelift, and how long do they last?
You may begin to notice improvements in your facial contours within the first few weeks following your SMAS facelift, although the final results take longer to develop as swelling gradually settles.
During the first few days, your face will be swollen, and you may need to wear a supportive facial band as advised by your surgeon. Swelling and bruising are normal and generally improve significantly during the first 2–4 weeks. Sutures are usually removed during the first or second week, depending on your healing.
Most of the visible swelling should have settled within the first few months, although residual swelling, tightness and numbness can take 6 months or longer to resolve. Your final results may continue to develop for up to 12 months.
During your recovery, it is important to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions. This includes avoiding strenuous exercise, contact sports and heavy lifting until advised otherwise. Protect your face from direct sunlight by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and applying sunscreen once your surgeon confirms it is appropriate. Eating a balanced diet, including fruit, vegetables and protein, and staying well hydrated can also support healing.
Your surgeon will advise when to start using silicone scar gel, usually once the incisions have healed sufficiently.
How long do SMAS facelift results last?
SMAS facelift results can be long-lasting, often around 8–10 years or longer, depending on the technique used, your facial anatomy, skin quality and natural ageing process.
No facelift can permanently stop ageing. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure can help preserve your skin's condition and appearance over time.
How much does a SMAS facelift cost?
At Kensington Medical, an advanced SMAS facelift starts from £11,500. The final cost depends on the SMAS technique recommended by your surgeon, the complexity of your procedure and whether you choose to combine your facelift with other facial surgery, such as a neck lift or eyelid surgery.
During your face-to-face consultation at Harley Street or Wimbledon, your specialist plastic surgeon will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your concerns and recommend the most suitable surgical approach.
Following your consultation, we will provide a personalised quotation outlining the cost of your recommended procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision before proceeding.
For more details see our comprehensive facelift cost page.
How should I prepare for a SMAS facelift?
Your plastic surgeon will give you specific advice on how to prepare for your facelift. This will be based on your pre-operative medical at Kensington Medical. It may include:
All the information will be provided and a 24 hour helpline is available. Your pre and post operative appointments will ensure you feel confident with the exciting journey ahead.
When will I see before and after images of a SMAS facelift?
During your consultation, your surgeon will share before and after images of previous SMAS facelifts that they have performed so that you can see the types of results you should expect.
At Kensington Medical, the journey to a fresher you can start today. The starting point of this journey is a consultation with your facelift surgeon. They will discuss the areas on your face that you are considering for cosmetic surgery. You may have another consultation to decide if there are any other procedures you may want such as an eyelift.
During the face to face consultation, your plastic surgeon will discuss facial structure, skin and muscle laxity. Photos of you when you were younger are helpful and we encourage you to bring them to the consultation. You will see our facelift SMAS before and after pictures so that we can create a plan for achieving your goals.
If you decide to have further procedures done at once, this plan will combine all aspects into one personalised program.
To find out if you are suitable book a consultation in our Harley street, London or Wimbledon clinic. Deciding to talk to an experienced plastic surgeon is the exciting first step to feeling and looking your best.
