SMAS Facelift in Thousand Oaks
Natural-Looking Facial Rejuvenation that Lasts
At Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery, the SMAS facelift is an advanced procedure designed to restore the deeper support structures of the face that have led to sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and jawline. Customized by board-certified plastic surgeon and facelift specialist, Dr. Zol Kryger, this technique is well suited for patients experiencing moderate facial aging who want meaningful improvement without the extended recovery associated with more aggressive facelift approaches.
Patients from Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Calabasas, and surrounding communities choose the SMAS facelift for balanced, yet transformative rejuvenation results that are natural-looking. still looks like them.
Real Patient Experiences
At the Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery, we have experience in a vast array of surgical and non-surgical procedures. Click to see some before and after photos of face and neck lifts.
Meet the Surgical Team at Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery
Dr. Gil Kryger and Dr. Zol Kryger are board-certified plastic surgeons with over two decades of experience. Trained at Stanford and Northwestern, they are published authors, textbook editors, and national presenters in the field of cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
The SMAS facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), a supportive layer beneath the skin that plays a major role in facial aging. As this layer loosens over time, it contributes to sagging cheeks, jowls, and loss of jawline definition.
During a SMAS facelift procedure, this deeper layer is carefully repositioned and secured before the skin is redraped smoothly over it. By addressing structure rather than just tightening skin, the SMAS technique creates more natural-looking, longer-lasting results.
This approach is often ideal for patients who need more correction than a mini facelift but do not require a deep plane facelift.
Benefits of a SMAS Facelift
A SMAS facelift offers meaningful rejuvenation while maintaining facial softness and expression. Key benefits include:
- Soft, natural-looking facial improvement
- Better jawline definition and reduced jowling
- Improved contour in the midface and lower face
- Shorter recovery compared to deeper facelift techniques
- Customizable correction for mild to moderate facial aging
Because the SMAS layer is addressed directly, results tend to age more gracefully over time.
SMAS Facelift vs. Deep Plane Facelift
Many patients ask about the difference between a SMAS facelift and a deep plane facelift. While both techniques address deeper facial structures, they are used for different degrees of aging.
A SMAS facelift may be appropriate if:
- Facial aging is moderate rather than advanced
- Jowls and jawline changes are the primary concern
- Midface sagging is present but not severe
- You want reliable results with a more straightforward recovery
During consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and goals to determine which approach best fits your needs.
What to Expect: Surgery, Recovery, and Results
A SMAS facelift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in the institute’s fully accredited surgical facility. Patient comfort and safety are prioritized throughout surgery.
After a SMAS facelift, patients can generally expect:
- Mild to moderate swelling and bruising
- Return to non-strenuous activities within 1–2 weeks
- Gradual refinement of results as swelling resolves
- Continued improvement in facial contours over several months
Results reveal a smoother jawline, lifted cheeks, and a more youthful facial balance without an over-tightened appearance.
FAQs About SMAS Facelift Surgery in Thousand Oaks
Who is a good candidate for a SMAS facelift?
You may be a good candidate if you are in good overall health and experiencing sagging in the cheeks, jowls, or jawline that cannot be corrected with non-surgical treatments alone.
How is a SMAS facelift different from a mini facelift?
A SMAS facelift addresses deeper facial support structures, providing more comprehensive and longer-lasting correction than a mini facelift.
Will a SMAS facelift look natural?
Yes. By repositioning the underlying SMAS layer, the facelift enhances facial structure rather than simply tightening skin, helping preserve natural facial expression.
What is the recovery time after a SMAS facelift?
Most patients return to normal daily activities within two weeks. Full healing and refinement continue over several months.
Can a SMAS facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. SMAS facelift surgery is often combined with a neck lift, eyelid surgery, or other facial procedures when appropriate.
How much does a SMAS facelift cost?
Cost varies based on surgical complexity and whether additional procedures are performed. Financing options may be available, and detailed pricing is provided during consultation.
Why Choose Kryger Institute for a SMAS Facelift in Thousand Oaks?
A SMAS facelift requires a precise understanding of facial anatomy and aging patterns. Patients choose Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery for SMAS facial rejuvenation because of:
- Board-certified surgical expertise: Dr. Zol Kryger and Dr. Gil Kryger have extensive experience in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques.
- Customized surgical planning: Each SMAS facelift is tailored to facial anatomy, degree of aging, and aesthetic goals.
- On-site, accredited surgical facility: Procedures are performed in a fully accredited outpatient surgical suite for safety and convenience.
- Continuity of care: Patients receive attentive care from consultation through recovery from a dedicated surgical team.
- Additional patient protection through CosmetAssure: Kryger Institute participates in CosmetAssure, which provides added financial protection for certain unexpected medical costs related to cosmetic surgery, offering patients greater peace of mind.
Patients are encouraged to learn more about our surgeons and to explore our Facelift Before & After Gallery and Testimonials to see the expert care every patient receives.
Schedule Your SMAS Facelift Consultation
If you are considering a SMAS facelift in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or Calabasas, a personalized consultation is the first step. During your visit, you’ll discuss your concerns, review treatment options, and receive a surgical plan tailored to your facial anatomy and goals. Contact us to Schedule a Consultation with Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery to learn whether a SMAS facelift is right for you.



