"I've started noticing sagging in my face," "My nasolabial folds have deepened," "My jawline has lost its definition" — these concerns are caused by age-related laxity in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. A facelift is a surgical procedure that addresses this sagging at its root.
This article provides a clear overview of the differences between surgical lifts (SMAS technique and Deep Plane technique) and thread lifts performed at Zethis Beauty Clinic, including the characteristics, downtime, and risks of each.
Areas That Can Be Improved With a Facelift
改善できる部位
A facelift goes beyond simply "cutting" and "lifting" — by lifting the facial support tissue (SMAS fascia) that has loosened with age, it achieves a natural, long-lasting rejuvenating effect.
Surgical Lift vs. Thread Lift: What's the Difference?
切開リフト vs スレッドリフト
切開リフト
持続 5〜10年
スレッドリフト
持続 1〜2年
Facelifts fall broadly into two categories: "surgical lifts" and "thread lifts." Which is more suitable depends on the degree of sagging, the desired strength of the result, and the amount of downtime a patient can afford.
Thread lifts involve smaller incisions and shorter downtime, but their effects gradually fade over one to two years. Surgical lifts offer reliable, long-lasting results, but come with approximately two to four weeks of downtime.
Surgical Lift Techniques: SMAS and Deep Plane
SMAS Technique
SMAS stands for Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System — the fascial layer beneath the facial skin. Rather than simply pulling the skin, manipulating the SMAS achieves a natural lifting effect with long-term durability.
The technique is further subdivided based on the depth and method of manipulation, including SMAS fixation, SMAS plication, and SMAS flap approaches.
Deep Plane Technique
This technique involves extensive dissection at a level deeper than the SMAS layer. Its greatest advantage is the ability to comprehensively lift the mid-face (around the cheekbones) and neck, making it particularly effective for cases of significant sagging or marked mid-face descent.
This is a technique in which Dr. Wang of Zethis excels, and the advantages of Deep Plane Facelift and its safe implementation have been presented at domestic academic conferences.
Although the Deep Plane technique operates at a greater depth and may appear to carry higher risks, the literature indicates that the incidence of permanent facial nerve injury is comparable to that of other SMAS-based techniques. It is important that the procedure be performed by an experienced surgeon.
Post-Operative Recovery Schedule
術後の回復スケジュール（目安）
術直後〜3日
安静期
1〜2週間
回復期
1か月〜
仕上がり
Individual results vary, but swelling and bruising typically peak around three days after surgery. Sutures are removed seven to ten days later, and most patients are able to return to their social activities within approximately two weeks. The final result settles gradually over six to twelve months.
Risks and Complications
A facelift is a highly safe procedure, but like all surgical operations, it carries inherent risks.
Hematoma: The most common complication, requiring particular attention in procedures involving extensive dissection. It is prevented through post-operative rest and compression management.
Transient facial nerve palsy: Procedures involving manipulation near the facial nerve may cause temporary changes in sensation or movement, but in most cases these resolve naturally within several weeks to several months.
Scarring: Incisions are made along the hairline and around the ears to minimize visibility; however, scarring may remain depending on individual constitution.
Detailed risk explanations are provided during the pre-operative consultation, so please feel free to ask if you have any questions.
Facelifts at Zethis
At Zethis Beauty Clinic, procedures are performed by a specialist with a track record of academic presentations at the Japanese Society of Aesthetic Surgery and the Japan Society for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. We propose either a surgical lift (SMAS technique / Deep Plane technique) or a thread lift tailored to each patient's degree of sagging, bone structure, and individual goals.
We welcome consultations whether you'd like to "start with a thread lift to see how it goes" or "achieve a more dramatic change." Your first consultation is free of charge.