A SMAS facelift (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System facelift) offers dramatic and natural-looking rejuvenation by lifting deeper facial structures, not just the skin. While the results can last 10 years or longer, how well you maintain your facelift plays a critical role in the longevity of your refreshed appearance.
In this post, we’ll walk you through proven, practical tips to help extend the results of your SMAS facelift—so you can continue to look your best for years to come.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Post-Operative Instructions
Your journey to long-lasting results begins immediately after surgery. Carefully following your surgeon’s post-op guidelines ensures proper healing and reduces the risk of complications that can affect your outcome.
Key tips:
- Take all prescribed medications as directed.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until cleared.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging. UV rays can damage collagen and elastin, which are crucial for skin firmness and elasticity.
What you can do:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
- Avoid sunbathing and tanning beds.
3. Maintain a Healthy Skincare Routine
Consistent skincare supports your facelift by enhancing skin tone and texture. It also helps prevent new signs of aging from developing.
Best practices:
- Use medical-grade skincare products, especially those with retinoids, peptides, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid.
- Cleanse gently and moisturize daily.
- Consider periodic professional treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet
Nutrition affects your skin from the inside out. A diet rich in antioxidants and hydration helps preserve collagen and elasticity.
Eat more of:
- Fruits and vegetables (especially berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts)
- Lean protein (for collagen synthesis)
Avoid: Excess sugar, processed foods, and excessive alcohol—all of which contribute to skin aging.
5. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Use
Smoking accelerates facial aging by narrowing blood vessels and reducing oxygen to the skin, which breaks down collagen faster. Excess alcohol dehydrates the skin and robs it of vital nutrients.
Pro tip: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your facelift results and overall health.
6. Keep a Stable Weight
Significant weight fluctuations can stretch the skin and affect your facelift results. Gaining or losing large amounts of weight may reverse some of the contouring achieved through surgery.
Maintain your results by:
- Following a regular exercise routine.
- Eating balanced meals with portion control.
- Avoiding yo-yo dieting.
7. Consider Periodic Non-Surgical Touch-Ups
While a SMAS facelift addresses deep facial aging, the aging process continues. Non-surgical treatments can help preserve and enhance your results over time.
Popular options:
- Botox: Smooths dynamic wrinkles like crow’s feet or forehead lines.
- Dermal Fillers: Restore volume to cheeks, temples, and lips.
- Laser Treatments: Improve skin tone, texture, and pigmentation.
8. Get Regular Sleep and Manage Stress
Chronic stress and poor sleep can speed up aging. When you sleep, your body repairs tissue—including skin cells.
Healthy habits:
- Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
- Limit screen time before bed to support better sleep.
9. Schedule Annual Check-Ins with Your Facial Plastic Surgeon
Regular visits allow your surgeon to monitor how your face is aging and recommend adjustments or treatments if needed. They can tailor ongoing care to your evolving needs.
Final Thoughts
A SMAS facelift offers transformative and lasting results—but it’s not a one-and-done solution. With the right care and lifestyle, you can maximize the longevity of your facelift and continue to look naturally youthful for years. Think of your facelift as a foundation, and your daily habits as the maintenance that preserves your investment.
If you’re considering a facelift or want advice on post-op care, consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to personalize your long-term anti-aging strategy.
