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The Deep Plane versus SMAS Facelift: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Sami Khoury1, Zaid Almubarak1, Halema Khan1
1Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, London Health Science Centre, Victoria Hospital, University of Western Ontario, Room B3-431A, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, ON, Canada.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
|August 13, 2025
Summary
Deep plane facelifts show higher patient satisfaction (94.4%) compared to SMAS facelifts (87.8%), though deep plane techniques have a higher complication rate. Both methods offer robust, long-term facial rejuvenation outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Facial Rejuvenation
- Aesthetic Surgery
Background:
- Facelifts are common facial rejuvenation surgeries.
- SMAS and deep plane techniques are primary approaches.
- Debate exists regarding the longevity of outcomes between techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze patient satisfaction and complications of SMAS versus deep plane facelifts.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and one-arm meta-analysis.
- Searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science (2000-2024).
- Included controlled trials and cohort studies following PRISMA guidelines.
Main Results:
- Analyzed 21 studies with 2896 patients.
- Deep plane facelift patient satisfaction: 94.4%.
- SMAS facelift patient satisfaction: 87.8%.
- Deep plane complication rate: 17.2%.
- SMAS complication rate: 10.3%.
Conclusions:
- Both deep plane and SMAS facelifts yield high patient satisfaction.
- Both techniques provide robust and long-term facial rejuvenation results.
- Deep plane techniques may have a higher complication rate but also higher satisfaction.

