Treatment Overview
The Contour Defining SMAS Lift is an advanced surgical facelift procedure in Korea, designed to lift and tighten the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) layer for sharper, more youthful facial contours. Unlike skin-only facelifts, the SMAS lift repositions deep tissue structures, ensuring natural, long-lasting results that restore balance to the jawline, cheeks, and neck.
Korean plastic surgery clinics are renowned for their precision incision techniques and contour-focused lifting protocols. The Contour Defining SMAS Lift is especially popular among patients who want to achieve a V-line jawline, defined cheekbones, and smoother facial harmony, making it one of the top choices for structural anti-aging surgery in Seoul.
Purpose & Benefits
- Facial Contouring: Sharpens jawline, chin, and midface definition.
- Deep Tissue Lift: Repositions SMAS layer for natural rejuvenation.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Smooths fine lines and deep folds.
- Sagging Correction: Lifts jowls, cheeks, and neck skin.
- Balanced Proportions: Enhances facial symmetry and harmony.
- Long-Lasting Results: Benefits typically last 8–12 years.
- Natural Finish: Avoids the “pulled” or artificial look of older facelift methods.
Ideal Candidates
The Contour Defining SMAS Lift is best for:
- Adults in their 40s–70s with sagging or loss of contour definition.
- Patients with jowls, double chin, or jawline laxity.
- Individuals with deep wrinkles or nasolabial folds.
- Men and women seeking structural facial lifting with contour refinement.
- Patients who want permanent alternatives to thread lifts or fillers.
Possible Risks & Complications
As a surgical procedure, risks exist, though minimized in top Korean clinics:
- Swelling or Bruising: Common, lasts 1–3 weeks.
- Temporary Numbness or Tightness: Expected during early healing.
- Scarring: Minimal, hidden along the hairline and ear creases.
- Rare Complications: Infection, hematoma, or nerve damage (rare with experienced surgeons).
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use advanced methods for natural contour definition:
- SMAS Layer Tightening & Repositioning: Ensures deeper, longer-lasting lift.
- High-SMAS or Deep Plane Approach: Provides stronger jawline and cheek definition.
- Customized Incision Mapping: Incisions hidden along hairline and ear curves.
- Facial Fat Grafting (Optional): Restores lost volume for balance.
- Combination Care: Can be paired with brow lift, eyelid surgery, or laser resurfacing for full rejuvenation.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately After: Bruising, swelling, and tightness expected.
- 1–2 Weeks: Stitches removed; swelling reduces.
- 3–4 Weeks: Normal activities may resume.
- 2–3 Months: Final contours settle into place.
- Downtime: Moderate—around 2 weeks off work recommended.
Aftercare Tips:
- Sleep with head elevated for faster swelling reduction.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 4 weeks.
- Keep incision areas clean and protected.
- Apply hydrating creams and sunscreen daily.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Noticeable jawline and midface lift.
- Short-Term (2–3 Months): Wrinkles reduce, contours sharpen.
- Medium-Term (1–2 Years): Skin continues improving as collagen rebuilds.
- Long-Term: Results last 8–12 years, with some enjoying longer benefits.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Analysis – Surgeon examines facial sagging, jawline structure, and aging patterns to design a tailored lift.
Preparation – Pre-surgical evaluation, anesthesia planning, and incision mapping.
Surgery – SMAS layer lifted and repositioned for sharper contours; excess skin removed.
Post-Surgery Care – Compression bandages, medications, and swelling control.
Follow-Up – Multiple check-ups within the first month for recovery monitoring.
Why Korea is a Top Destination –
- Experts in contour-focused facelifts for V-line definition.
- Advanced Korean incision techniques minimize visible scarring.
- Integration with fat grafting, threads, or laser therapy for enhanced contour.
- High safety and artistry standards, trusted by international patients.
- Seoul’s global reputation as a hub for facial contouring and anti-aging surgery.
Cost Range
The cost of a Contour Defining SMAS Lift in Korea varies by surgeon, clinic, and additional treatments:
- Lower Face & Jawline SMAS Lift: USD 7,500 – 11,000
- Full-Face SMAS Lift: USD 12,000 – 18,000
- Full-Face + Neck Contour Lift: USD 15,000 – 22,000
- Comprehensive Contour Package (SMAS + Fat Grafting + Thread Lift): USD 18,000 – 28,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 50 – 200
- Anesthesia fee: USD 1,000 – 2,500
- Post-surgery medications & care: USD 300 – 800
💡 With results lasting nearly a decade or more, the Contour Defining SMAS Lift is one of the most effective long-term anti-aging procedures for sharper facial definition.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in SMAS lifts with contour refinement.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Internationally acclaimed for advanced facelift surgeries.
- View Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Known for SMAS + fat grafting contour packages.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Experts in jawline and V-line structural correction.
- Chaum Wellness Center (Seoul): Luxury holistic surgical and anti-aging care.



