What is the difference between a SMART facelift and a traditional facelift and the downtime?

Question

Konstantin Vasyukevich, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The SMART Facelift™ is a procedure performed by a doctor in Baltimore.  This procedure is not a true facelift, but rather a variation of a thread lift.  A typical thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is designed to elevate the sagging skin of the face.  It utilizes several barb wired threads that are inserted through a small incision close to the temple, passed under the skin towards the jawline and then tightened up to elevate facial skin.  The recovery after this procedure is typically quite short and bruising and swelling are minimal.  The biggest downside to this type of a lift is a very short longevity of the results.  The effects of a thread lift would typically last for about 6-12 month (compare to 10-15 years after a traditional facelift).Hope this helps,Dr. K.

Arthur Dean Jabs, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Facelift techniques vary but all share basic components. Various surgeons will “brand” their technique with a name for marketing purposes. Medically there are very few of these that are recognized by surgeons. SMART lift, QUICKLIFT, S lift, MINI lift, Q lift etc. do not convey what they actually are doing. You want the surgery to address your areas of concern and not be a “cookie cutter” approach. Be sure to discuss with your surgeon what exactly will be done and why. Also review pre and post op photos to see if you like what the surgeon has done with others.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

The SMART facelift is a minimally invasive procedure using barbed threads to pull the face tighter. I am biased against them. They were the rage in the 90's and were found not to work for very long (past 3-6 months). There has not really been much change to the threads nnor the theory behind using them. I believe it is really just a renewed marketing by inexperienced "surgeons". It is of course very appealing to the public because it is marketed as a 1 hour procedure with little to no down time. I believe that it is just another scam. Buyer beware.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

cgross140.   If you are referring to the procedure using barbed threads, it is not a true facelift. These threads are passed under the skin and claim to lift the skin as good as a facelift. This particular procedure has been fraught with many complications including dimpling of the skin and very short longevity. Also, if they need to be removed, a facelift approach with facelift incisions must be done to remove the threads causing the problems. The gold standard for a facial rejuvenation is still a facelift. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your region. Good luck.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

A smart facelift is performed with a smart lipo laser to help elevate the facelift flaps. It really doesn't have any major impact on the result of the facelift, it is strictly a preference of the surgeon. Traditional facelifts are great, so I'd recommend you consider the importance of your surgeon's experience and results over the technology of a laser. It's the surgeon that will give you a great result, not a device.Andrew Campbell, M.D.
Facial Rejuvenation Specialist
Quintessa Aesthetic Centers

What is the difference between a SMART facelift and a traditional facelift and the downtime?

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Answer: Not A Facelift

Answer: Not A Facelift

Answer: Smart vs. traditional facelift

Answer: Smart vs. traditional facelift

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What is the difference between a SMART facelift and a traditional facelift and the downtime?

Answers (9)

Answer: Not A Facelift

Answer: Not A Facelift

Answer: Smart vs. traditional facelift

Answer: Smart vs. traditional facelift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.