# DEEPPLANE™ — /smas

> Machine-readable markdown summary. Full article: https://deepplane.com/smas
> Last built: 2026-10-18 · Editorial standard: DEEPPLANE™ Review Council.
> License: CC BY 4.0 — Source: DEEPPLANE™

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the difference between SMAS and deep plane facelift?

SMAS facelift tightens the SMAS layer with sutures from ABOVE. Deep plane facelift dissects BENEATH the SMAS to release retaining ligaments, then lifts skin + fat + SMAS as one composite flap. Practical differences: deep plane releases the ligaments and repositions the composite flap, costs more and takes longer; which technique lasts longer is still debated (Khoury 2025, PMID 40801931).

*Topics: comparison, smas*

### What's the cost difference between deep plane and SMAS facelift?

Deep plane facelift typically costs 30-50% more than SMAS facelift in the same market. USA: deep plane $35K-$75K vs SMAS $15K-$35K. UK: deep plane £18K-£35K vs SMAS £12K-£22K. Turkey: deep plane $10K-$12K (all-inclusive packages to $18K). The premium reflects (a) longer operative time (4-6h vs 2-3h), (b) surgeon training/scarcity. Which technique lasts longer is still debated (Khoury 2025, PMID 40801931), so there is no measured cost per year of result.

*Topics: cost, comparison, smas*

## Fact-checked claims on this page

- **Mixed** — All surgeons who claim to perform 'deep plane facelift' actually dissect in the sub-SMAS plane
  - Source: The term 'deep plane facelift' has been genericized by marketing; actual sub-SMAS dissection with ligament release is a specific surgical technique not all self-described 'deep plane' providers perform. Patients should ask the surgeon to specifically describe: (a) which retaining ligaments are released (zygomatic, masseteric, mandibular), (b) whether the SMAS is elevated as a composite flap or separately, (c) the vector of tissue repositioning (vertical vs oblique). A surgeon who can't answer all three in concrete terms may be performing extended SMAS or high-SMAS, not true deep plane

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