Deep Plane Versus SMAS Plication Facelift: A Prospective Cohort Study of Clinical Outcomes and Complication Rates

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Rejuvenation Surgery

Background:

• Facelift surgery is a common procedure for facial rejuvenation.
• Debate exists regarding the optimal facelift technique.
• This study compares deep plane and SMAS plication facelift outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare aesthetic outcomes and complication rates of deep plane versus SMAS plication facelifts.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction and recovery duration between the two techniques.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study of 166 patients undergoing primary facelift surgery.
• Patients were divided into deep plane (n=45) and SMAS plication (n=121) groups.
• Data collected included demographics, operative characteristics, aesthetic outcomes, satisfaction, recovery, and complications.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in overall complication rates (21.6% vs. 28.7%) or patient satisfaction (p=0.09) were observed.
• Facial rejuvenation ratings and recovery duration were similar between the deep plane and SMAS plication groups.
• Transient facial nerve weakness rates were comparable (11.1% vs. 12.4%).

Conclusions:

• Deep plane and SMAS plication facelifts demonstrate comparable early postoperative outcomes.
• Both techniques appear safe and effective in the short term.
• Surgical expertise and patient selection may be more influential than technique alone.