Last updated on January 26, 2026
In this video, Dr Mrinal Supriya explains the different types of facelift procedures available, from non-surgical treatments to surgical techniques. He outlines how skin lifts, SMAS lifts, and deep plane facelifts differ, who each approach may be suitable for, and why understanding these distinctions is important when considering treatment.
Transcript:
What are the different types of facelifts? Can you tell us more about that?
Broadly, facelifts can be divided into non-surgical and surgical varieties. Non-surgical options include treatments such as fillers or thread lifts. The issue with these non-surgical techniques is that they provide a subtle and short-lasting impact, and they are generally more suitable for people in their twenties or early thirties.
Once you move beyond that age group, surgical techniques are usually required. Surgical facelifts are broadly divided into three types. The first, and most commonly offered, is a skin lift, where the surgeon pulls the skin back. The problem with this approach is that it often results in an artificial, tight appearance that does not look natural, and many patients are not satisfied with the outcome. This type of facelift is commonly offered because it is quicker and can be done under local anaesthesia, but the results do not last long.
The second type is known as a SMAS lift. This involves lifting the underlying tissue slightly, which is better than a skin-only lift, but it still does not provide optimal results because the deeper muscles and ligaments are not fully addressed. This approach may be suitable for people in their thirties who have subtle signs of ageing and do not want extensive surgery.
The third type, and the most comprehensive option for many patients over the age of forty, is the deep plane facelift. This technique differs from the other two because it addresses the underlying muscles and ligaments in their entirety. These structures are the main contributors to facial sagging over time. In a deep plane facelift, the surgeon works beneath the muscles, releases and repositions the ligaments, and secures them in an elevated position. This allows for a more natural lift, longer-lasting results, and avoids an artificial or pulled appearance.
In simple terms, non-surgical options may be suitable for younger individuals, a SMAS lift may help those with mild ageing changes, but for patients with more significant facial ageing, a deep plane face and neck lift is more likely to provide the best outcome.
There is often confusion around facelift terminology online, as different surgeons and websites may use the same terms to describe very different procedures. It is important not to rely solely on online information, but to speak directly with a surgeon and ask specific questions about what layers will be treated and how the procedure will be performed, particularly for patients over midlife who are seeking optimal results.
We have a quiz below that will help you understand whether a deep plane facelift or other techniques surrounding the face might be right for you. Take a moment, have some fun, and take the quiz below.
About The Author
Mr Mrinal Supriya
Mr Mrinal Supriya is the Divisional Director of Surgery. He is highly experienced Head and Neck Surgeon, specialising in facial cosmetic surgery. He is the clinical director for head and neck service in Northamptonshire and works as an ENT Consultant. He is the lead head and neck robotic surgeon at the University hospital of Northamptonshire (2023). Previously, he held the post of ENT, Head and Neck consultant at St.George’s University Hospital, London and at Ninewells University Hospital, Dundee.
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