The deep plane facelift and SMAS facelift both address facial aging, but they work at different tissue levels and produce distinct results. The deep plane technique repositions deeper facial structures for longer-lasting, more natural outcomes, while the SMAS approach primarily tightens the superficial muscular layer. Dr. George Moynihan, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with nearly two decades of experience, is widely recognized as one of Chicago's leading experts in deep plane facelift surgery—delivering results that look refreshed and natural, never pulled or surgical.
In this blog, we will discuss: how each facelift technique works, the key differences between deep plane and SMAS facelifts, recovery considerations, and why Dr. Moynihan's expertise makes him an ideal choice for your facial rejuvenation.
Understanding the SMAS Facelift
The SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) facelift has been a standard technique in facial plastic surgery for decades. This approach targets the fibrous tissue layer that lies beneath the skin and above the deeper facial muscles.
- Tissue layer addressed: The surgeon lifts and tightens the SMAS layer, which sits just beneath the skin.
- Skin tension: Results rely partly on pulling the skin tighter, which can create a more "done" appearance over time.
- Longevity: Results typically last 5-10 years, depending on the patient's skin quality and lifestyle factors.
- Recovery: Generally involves 1-2 weeks of initial recovery with moderate swelling and bruising.
- Best candidates: Patients with mild to moderate facial laxity who desire subtle improvement.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facelift techniques have evolved significantly over the past several decades, with surgeons now able to address deeper tissue layers for more comprehensive rejuvenation.
What Makes the Deep Plane Facelift Different?
The deep plane facelift represents a more advanced surgical approach that goes beneath the SMAS layer to reposition the deeper facial structures. Rather than simply pulling skin tight, this technique lifts and repositions the underlying muscles and connective tissues as a single unit.
- Deeper tissue repositioning: The surgeon releases and lifts tissues below the SMAS, including the deep facial ligaments.
- Natural movement preservation: Because deeper structures move together, facial expressions remain natural and fluid.
- Low-tension closure: Less tension is placed on the skin itself, reducing the risk of a "pulled" or "windswept" appearance.
- Longer-lasting results: Patients often enjoy results lasting 10-15 years or more.
- Comprehensive correction: Effectively addresses midface sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds, and neck laxity in one procedure.
Dr. Moynihan uses a modified deep plane technique with low-tension closure, creating results so natural they are virtually undetectable as being the result of surgery. His patients frequently report looking 10-15 years younger while still looking like themselves.
Comparing Results: Deep Plane vs. SMAS
When evaluating which technique may be right for you, understanding the difference in outcomes is essential. Both procedures can deliver meaningful improvement, but the depth and longevity of results vary.
- Natural appearance: Deep plane facelifts produce softer, more natural-looking results because the skin is not stretched tightly.
- Midface improvement: The deep plane approach more effectively lifts the midface and cheeks, addressing nasolabial folds comprehensively.
- Neck definition: Deep plane facelifts typically deliver superior neck and jawline definition.
- Scar visibility: Both techniques use similar incision patterns, but the low-tension closure in deep plane surgery often results in finer, less visible scars.
- Durability: Deep plane results generally outlast SMAS results by several years due to the structural repositioning of deeper tissues.
Real Results: Deep Plane Facelift Before and After
Dr. Moynihan's expertise in the deep plane technique is evident in his before-and-after gallery. One recent patient, a 57-year-old woman, underwent a modified deep plane facelift with a neck lift and platysmaplasty to achieve a more rested, rejuvenated appearance without looking "surgical."
Her comprehensive treatment included:
- Modified deep plane facelift: Reversed natural aging and restored a more youthful resting expression.
- Neck lift with platysmaplasty: Created a smooth, defined neck contour.
- Upper and lower blepharoplasty: Restored youthful lid position and eliminated under-eye hollowing.
- Surgical lip lift: Feminized her smile and enhanced facial harmony.
- CO2 laser resurfacing: Refined skin texture for a polished final result.
The transformation demonstrates Dr. Moynihan's ability to address multiple signs of aging while preserving natural facial movement and expression.
Dr. Moynihan's Expertise and Credentials
Selecting the right surgeon for a deep plane facelift is critical, as the technique requires advanced training, extensive experience, and an artist's eye for natural results. Dr. George Moynihan brings unmatched credentials and a reputation for excellence to every procedure.
- Double board certification: Certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
- Nearly 20 years of experience: Specializing exclusively in facial plastic surgery.
- Elite training: Educated at Villanova, Loyola, and the prestigious Rousso Facial Plastic Surgery Center.
- Academic leadership: Serves as Clinical Assistant Professor at Loyola University Medical Center and Rush University Medical Center.
- AAAASF-accredited surgical suite: All procedures are performed in a state-of-the-art, private onsite facility.
- Signature technique: Uses a modified deep plane approach with low-tension closure for undetectable, natural results.
His patients consistently describe their outcomes as looking like themselves—just 10 or 15 years younger. That natural, refreshed appearance, combined with his warm demeanor and personalized care, has made Dr. Moynihan one of Chicago's most sought-after facial plastic surgeons.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Moynihan Today
Understanding the key differences between deep plane and SMAS facelifts empowers you to make an informed decision about your facial rejuvenation. Dr. George Moynihan's expertise, double board certification, and mastery of the deep plane technique position him as one of Chicago's premier facelift specialists. His commitment to natural, long-lasting results, combined with personalized care in a private, elegant setting, ensures every patient receives the elevated experience they deserve.
Ready to discover which facelift technique is right for you? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Moynihan today.
