What is the difference between a SMAS and MAS facelift?

Far more important than the technique is the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon. Choose your surgeon rather than the technique and let them explain why one technique may be better than another.  See the below link on some suggestions on finding the most qualified Plastic Surgeon for you.  Always insist on a board certified plastic surgeon.

Hi,
This is a very professional question. MACS lift is in face a more simple suspension facelift. SMAS facelift on the other hand incorporates lifting, tightening and correcting the underlying tissues of the face.
Take care,
Ali Rıza Öreroğlu, MD, FEBOPRASDouble Board Certified Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic SurgeonIstanbul - TURKEY

Thank you for your question.  A facelift is designed to tighten and even remove the loose and sagging skin from around the jawline, the neck, and midface.  During this procedure, the deeper tissues lying below the skin will be elevated and secured, as well.  A SMAS facelift (which stands for sub-musculoaponeurotic system) elevates this deep tissue which lies just below the skin.  The elevated tissue is then lifted, and suspended with sutures.  During a MACS facelift (or short incision facelift) the SMAS is only suspended with sutures.  In other words, the SMAS is not elevated and then suspended.  The main difference between these two face lifts is the longevity and the significance of the results.  A SMAS facelift should last longer and give more dramatic results over a MACS facelift.  The recovery time for a MACS facelift should be less extensive, although some would argue the recovery times are very similar.  I would suggest consulting with a board certified facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation for a full evaluation.  Here you will be able to discuss your goals for surgery, and be able to review before and after photographs. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin