Facial Surgery

SMAS Facelift

Restores a youthful, defined appearance by repositioning the deeper facial support layer rather than simply tightening the skin. Softens jowling, refines the jawline & restores natural facial contours

Procedure Time

2.5 - 3 Hours

Results Last

Approx. 10-15 Years

Hospital Stay

Not Required

Recovery Time

4-6 Weeks

Time Off Work

Around 2 Weeks

Anaesthesia

TIVA Anaesthesia

Exercise

4-6 Weeks

Price

Confirmed After Consultation

Procedure

What is a SMAS Facelift?

A SMAS Facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation procedure that lifts and repositions the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, the deeper support layer beneath the skin and facial fat. By restoring support at this deeper level rather than relying on skin tension alone, the procedure can create more youthful facial contours with a natural, refreshed appearance.

The procedure is particularly suited to patients experiencing moderate facial ageing, including jowling, loss of jawline definition, flattening through the cheeks and deepening facial folds. At 111 Harley St., Dr Yannis Alexandrides tailors the technique to your anatomy, tissue descent and desired result rather than taking a one-technique-fits-all approach.

Where appropriate, a SMAS Facelift can also be considered alongside Neck Lift, Blepharoplasty, Facial Fat Transfer, micrografting or advanced skin resurfacing as part of a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.

Expected Effects & Benefits

Repositions deeper facial support structures
Softens jowling and lower-face laxity
Restores jawline and cheek definition
Improves overall facial balance
Preserves natural movement and expression
Provides long-lasting structural rejuvenation

RESULTS

Before & After SMAS Facelift

Before

After

Facelift

Before

After

Facelift

Before

Facelift

y-Facelift

After

Facelift

Your Journey

The 360° Approach

Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr Yannis Alexandrides. He takes time to understand your concerns, medical history, lifestyle and desired result while assessing your facial anatomy, skin quality, tissue descent and jawline definition.

This detailed analysis determines whether a SMAS Facelift is right for you or whether another surgical, non-surgical or combined approach would better suit your needs. Your dedicated Patient Care Coordinator will be your first point of contact and guide you throughout your journey at 111 Harley St.

Ahead of surgery, eligible patients receive a Skin Diagnostic Scan alongside a comprehensive pre-operative medical assessment. This allows our team to understand your skin health and overall wellbeing and create a personalised preparation and recovery protocol.

Our specialist nursing team, led by Lead Nurse Zuzana Pavlovska, will guide you through your clinical preparation and what to expect before and after surgery.

Your pre-operative pathway includes medical screening and checks appropriate to your health, anaesthetic and surgical plan, alongside clear guidance on medication, supplements, smoking, nutrition and preparing for recovery.

Your individual protocol is designed to ensure you are appropriately prepared and supported before your procedure.

Skin health forms an important part of our 360° approach. As the founder of 111SKIN, Dr Yannis has long championed scientifically led skincare as part of the preparation and recovery process surrounding facial surgery.

Your personalised protocol may include 111SKIN homecare, Dramatic Healing Serum, selected supplements, LED light therapy and other treatments where appropriate to optimise skin condition and support recovery.

Our care continues well beyond your operation. Our specialist nursing team supports your recovery through regular clinical reviews, wound and scar care and personalised post-operative protocols.

Depending on your recovery, this may include ELIXIR, LED light therapy, Endermologie lymphatic drainage, 111SKIN skincare and nutritional support, with each element adapted to your individual healing.

As healing progresses, Dr Yannis and the clinical team continue to review your facial contours, scars and skin quality. Your personalised long-term care programme may incorporate 111SKIN, UltraClear laser resurfacing, regenerative treatments, injectables or advanced non-surgical treatments where appropriate.

With surgical, skin and non-surgical specialists under one roof, your care can continue to evolve with you and support the quality and longevity of your result.

Procedure

How does a SMAS Facelift work?

The SMAS is a fibromuscular support layer beneath the skin and facial fat. With ageing, this layer and the tissues connected to it can descend, contributing to jowling, flatter cheeks, deeper facial folds and reduced jawline definition.

During a SMAS Facelift, Dr Yannis carefully elevates and repositions this deeper layer before redraping the skin without excessive tension. By treating the structural changes beneath the skin rather than tightening the surface alone, the procedure restores facial support while maintaining natural expression and movement.

A SMAS Facelift is often selected for moderate facial ageing where deeper structural repositioning is required. Where more extensive tissue descent is present, Dr Yannis Alexandrides may recommend another technique, such as a Y Facelift or Deep Plane Facelift, following detailed facial assessment.

UNDERSTANDING THE SMAS LAYER:

The SMAS lies beneath the skin and facial fat
It contributes to facial shape, movement and structural support
With ageing, the SMAS and connected tissues can descend
Repositioning it allows the overlying skin to settle naturally

WHY DEEPER REPOSITIONING MATTERS:

The lift is created beneath the skin surface
Less tension is required at the skin
Facial movement and expression are preserved
Results are designed to appear refreshed and refined rather than tight

Procedure

Surgical Techniques & Technology

SMAS Repositioning

The deeper support layer is carefully elevated and secured to restore facial structure and definition without relying on excessive skin tension.

Skin Redraping

Once deeper support has been restored, the skin is smoothly redraped and excess skin is conservatively removed for a natural finish.

Discreet Incisions

Incisions are carefully planned around the natural contours of the ear and hairline to support discreet, refined healing.

Bespoke Vector Planning

The direction and degree of lift are personalised according to your facial anatomy, tissue descent and natural proportions.

General Anaesthesia

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia with an experienced surgical and anaesthetic team, including Head Anaesthetist Dr Hish Said.

Personalised Surgical Planning

No two SMAS Facelifts are identical. Dr Yannis adapts the surgical approach according to your facial structure, ageing pattern, and desired result.

Skin Diagnostic Scan

Eligible patients receive a detailed assessment of skin health to inform pre-operative preparation and longer-term skin care.

Recovery Support

Personalised aftercare may incorporate ELIXIR, LED light therapy, Endermologie and other clinically appropriate protocols to support recovery.

Long-Term Skin Strategy

111SKIN, UltraClear and selected non-surgical treatments may be incorporated into your long-term care programme where appropriate.

Your Journey

The 5-Step Process

Consultation

An in-depth facial assessment with Dr Yannis to understand your concerns, anatomy and desired result before selecting the most appropriate facelift technique.

1

Preparation

Medical assessment, skin analysis and a personalised pre-operative protocol supported by our specialist clinical team.

2

Surgery

The SMAS is carefully repositioned before the skin is naturally redraped and conservatively refined under general anaesthesia.

3

Recovery

Structured clinical reviews, scar and wound care and personalised aftercare support you throughout the initial healing period.

4

Long Term Care

Your personalised programme may include 111SKIN, advanced skin treatments and non-surgical procedures where appropriate to support your skin and optimise your result.

5

Your Journey

Recovery Timeline

1–2 Weeks

Initial swelling and bruising progressively subside during the first two weeks. Some patients feel comfortable returning to work and everyday activities towards the end of this period, depending on their individual recovery.

2–6 Weeks

The face continues to settle as residual swelling and bruising reduce and facial definition becomes clearer. By around six weeks, many patients feel confident returning to important social occasions and events.

6 Weeks–6 Months

Facial tissues continue to settle and contours become softer, more defined and increasingly natural. Subtle refinement continues throughout this period and may take longer for some patients.

6–12 Months

For some patients, subtle healing and refinement can continue for up to 12 months. Scars continue to soften and mature as the final result becomes established. Recovery varies between patients. Your progress will be reviewed by Dr Yannis Alexandrides and our clinical team throughout your post-operative journey.

Your Journey

Post surgery activity guidelines

Shower

48 HOURS

Following your surgical team’s instructions and keeping incisions protected.

Driving

1-2 WEEKS

Resume once you are no longer taking sedating medication & can comfortably and safely turn your head.

Work

AROUND 2 WEEKS

Many patients return to desk-based work after around two weeks, depending on their individual recovery and role.

Exercise

2–6 WEEKS

Exercise can be gradually reintroduced, with more strenuous activity resumed once approved by your surgical team.

Suitability & Safety

Am I suitable for a SMAS Facelift?

Ideal Candidate Profile

A SMAS Facelift may be suitable if you have moderate facial laxity, jowling, loss of jawline definition, flattening or descent through the cheeks, deeper facial folds, or lower-face ageing that requires more structural support.
Suitability depends on your facial anatomy, tissue descent, skin quality, health and desired result rather than age alone.
During consultation, Dr Yannis will determine whether a SMAS Facelift or an alternative Mini, Y or Deep Plane Facelift approach is most appropriate for you.

Risks & Complications

As with any surgery, risks may include bleeding, infection, bruising, swelling, fluid collection, delayed healing, scarring, asymmetry, altered sensation, nerve injury, hairline changes, skin compromise, anaesthetic complications and the possibility of revision surgery.
Your individual risk profile will be discussed during consultation, alongside the steps taken to reduce risk through careful medical screening, surgical planning and structured aftercare.

Your Surgeon

Dr Yannis Alexandrides

Dr Yannis Alexandrides is an American Board-certified Plastic Surgeon with more than 30 years of surgical experience and specialist training at the University of Miami and Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Internationally recognised for advanced facelift and facial rejuvenation surgery, Dr Yannis is a founding faculty member of the NYC Facelift Master Course and takes a highly individualised approach to selecting and adapting surgical techniques to create transformative yet natural-looking results.

Pricing

Overview

Every patient and procedure at 111 Harley St. is unique, which is why surgical pricing is tailored to your individual case rather than based on a one-size-fits-all approach.

The cost of your procedure will depend on factors such as your anatomy, the complexity of surgery, the technique required and your personalised treatment plan.

Following your consultation and assessment, our team will provide a clear, individualised quotation based on the surgery recommended for you.

Finance Calculator

Loan Amount: £5,000

£5,000 £7,500 £10,000 £12,500 £15,000

Term: 12 months

12 months 24 months 36 months 48 months

First Payment

0 Monthly Payment

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*Interest rates are subject to status and individual credit score.

Resources

Reviews

     
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ellie Hook 
 3 September 2026
 
 
  I came to the 111 Harley Street for UltraClear laser treatment with Claudia Brand. She was absolutely incredible, talking me through the process and made me feel very safe. She was also brilliant throughout the process. I cannot wait to see my result! Thank you Claudia!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jenna Nicholls 
 2 September 2026
 
 
  Really lovely team - thank you Anna and Jamy for looking after me during treatment! Can’t wait for the results 🥰
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Edward Smith 
 31 August 2026
 
 
  Very Impressed With My Rhinoplasty I had been unhappy with the shape of my nose for years and finally decided to look into rhinoplasty. Choosing the right surgeon and clinic was extremely important to me, so I spent a lot of time researching before booking my consultation at 111 Harley St. The consultation was detailed and reassuring, and I appreciated the focus on achieving a result that suited my face rather than simply changing my nose. The whole process was handled professionally, from the initial consultation through to the follow-up appointments. My nose now looks much more balanced with the rest of my face, and the improvement is significant without looking artificial.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Louise F 
 28 August 2026
 
 
  I had my consultation with Anna and honestly couldn’t have been happier with the experience. She took the time to really listen to all of my concerns and went through everything with me in so much detail, including the different treatment options. I really appreciated how thorough and attentive she was, and the whole consultation felt very personal and tailored specifically to me rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. I felt really comfortable and well looked after. I’m really happy with the experience and will definitely be coming back for my treatment. Thank you so much, Anna!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mily Barnett 
 27 August 2026
 
 
  Spoke to Anna about all my skin concerns over a consultation - she was super helpful, knowledgeable and can’t wait to start my journey with 111 Skin. Thank you Anna.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mia Raggett 
 25 August 2026
 
 
  Had a lovely consultation with Anna, helped me so much with my questions and was very friendly. Thanks!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Yasmine Rabah 
 20 August 2026
 
 
  Just did the thermale treatment and the whole experience with the staff and the treatment and care has been superb. I highly recommend. Will let you know how it goes with the other treatments that I will do:)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kat M 
 19 August 2026
 
 
  Fantastic facial with Jamy and consultation with Anna. Would 100% recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Rosie Walker 
 17 August 2026
 
 
  A Wonderful Experience I decided to explore a Y Facelift after becoming increasingly unhappy with the loss of definition around my lower face. I was initially quite nervous about having facial surgery, so having a detailed consultation was really important to me. Everything was explained clearly and I felt comfortable asking lots of questions. I’m so pleased with the outcome my face looks fresher and more defined, but it still looks completely like me.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anna 
 10 August 2026
 
 
  Amazing experience with Claudia. I was really nervous but she put me at ease and explained the process to me. I would definitely recommend coming here for all aesthetic treatments!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Altay Ali 
 7 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia Is always amazing, and I would highly recommend her services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Robert White 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia was amazing! Really friendly, polite and professional. Will 100% be coming back.
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Jessica Thomas 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  The Best Decision I Made I had a facelift at 111 Harley Street. From my very first consultation, I felt completely comfortable and confident that I was in safe hands. The surgeon took the time to understand what I wanted to achieve and explained every stage of the process clearly, from the operation itself to the recovery and expected results. The care I received was outstanding from start to finish. Every member of the team was kind, professional, and incredibly supportive. They were always available to answer any questions, and I felt genuinely looked after throughout my entire journey. Now that I've fully recovered, I am absolutely delighted with the results. I look refreshed, younger, and far more confident, while still looking completely natural. The best compliment I've received is that people keep telling me I look really well without realising I've had surgery. It's exactly the subtle, natural result I was hoping for. Choosing 111 Harley Street was one of the best decisions I've made. The expertise, attention to detail, and exceptional aftercare exceeded all of my expectations. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone considering a facelift.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hannah Lucy 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  I had a consultation with Anna who was so knowledgeable and extremely friendly. The team were welcoming and I look forward to starting treatment.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aashika Balaji 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  Claudia is excellent and incredibly intuitive
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   William Julian Taranu-Lee 
 29 July 2026
 
 
  Had such a lovely consultation at 111 Harley St. I felt so welcomed and comfortable in their hands, and really appreciated their honest cosmetic advice. Would absolutely recommend having a consultation at 111 Harley St. You won’t regret it :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bilgi P 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  +0
I had plastic surgery from doctor Ashvani in 2019 and he messed up my tummy completely. I lost all my sensation in my tummy area and after 7 years, I still regret of having tummy tuck with him. He stitched my whole tummy tuck area without leaving drainage after the operation. I ended up having this massive hole in my tummy area. I have the most horrible scars and I don’t wear bikini for not showing my belly button. You can see how bad his stitches are from the photo. Please do your research before you trust him so you don’t regret like I did. My friend had similar operation in Turkey and you would not even notice she had plastic surgery.my advice is  go to Turkey to have proper plastic surgery with surgeons who knows how do operate.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Georgia Westley 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  Had a consultation with Anna who helped with my skin concerns, she helped advice on treatments and products to support on my hyper pigmentation and dryness. Would highly recommend
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chloe L 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Really pleased with my consultation with Anna. She explained everything clearly, and the skin scanning was very insightful. Everyone was warm and friendly – I’d highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Zara Walsh 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Thank you so much, great experience!
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 856 reviews,showing our latest reviews

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SMAS layer?

The Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, or SMAS, is a fibromuscular support layer beneath the skin and facial fat. It connects with the muscles of facial expression and plays an important role in facial shape, movement and structural support.

As facial tissues descend with age, repositioning the SMAS can restore deeper support more effectively than relying on skin tightening alone.

What is the difference between a SMAS and Deep Plane Facelift?

Both techniques address deeper facial structures but work differently. A SMAS Facelift elevates and secures the SMAS layer, while a Deep Plane Facelift involves releasing deeper retaining ligaments to allow the facial tissues to be repositioned together.

A SMAS Facelift can be appropriate for moderate facial ageing, while a Deep Plane approach may be considered where more extensive tissue descent requires greater release. Dr Yannis Alexandrides will recommend the technique most appropriate for your anatomy and goals.

Will a SMAS Facelift look natural?

A SMAS Facelift is designed to restore support beneath the skin rather than create a tight surface pull. By repositioning the deeper layer before naturally redraping the skin, facial movement, expression and individuality can be preserved.

The aim is for you to look refreshed, more defined and rejuvenated, while still looking unmistakably like yourself.

How long do SMAS Facelift results last?

Results can remain visible for approximately 10–15 years, although longevity varies according to anatomy, skin quality, lifestyle, sun exposure and the natural ageing process.

A facelift cannot stop ageing, but it creates a rejuvenated starting point. Personalised skincare and selected non-surgical treatments may also form part of your long-term care programme where appropriate.

Will the scars be visible?

Incisions are usually positioned around the natural contours of the ear and, where necessary, within the hairline. Scars are visible during early healing but typically soften and become less noticeable over time.

Your 360° aftercare plan includes clinical follow-up and personalised scar and skin support to help optimise the healing process.

How long before I can return to work?

Many patients plan around two weeks away from work, although this varies according to individual healing and the nature of their role. Those in public-facing positions may prefer additional time while the face continues to settle.

By around six weeks, many patients feel confident returning to important social occasions and events.

Can a SMAS Facelift be combined with eyelid surgery?

Yes. Where appropriate, a SMAS Facelift may be combined with upper or lower Blepharoplasty, Brow Lift, Facial Fat Transfer, micrografting or selected neck procedures to create more balanced facial rejuvenation.

Dr Yannis will determine whether a combined or staged approach is most appropriate based on your anatomy, health and desired result.

Am I suitable for a SMAS Facelift?

You may be suitable if you have moderate facial laxity, jowling, cheek descent or loss of jawline definition and are in good general health. The decision is based on your anatomy and degree of tissue descent rather than a specific age.

During consultation, Dr Yannis Alexandrides will determine whether a SMAS, Mini, Y or Deep Plane Facelift is most appropriate, or whether a non-surgical approach could better address your concerns.

How is a SMAS Facelift different from a Mini Facelift?

A Mini Facelift generally provides more targeted correction for earlier lower-face ageing. A SMAS Facelift addresses the deeper support layer more comprehensively and may be selected when moderate laxity or jowling requires greater structural repositioning.

The appropriate technique depends on your individual anatomy and ageing pattern rather than the name of the procedure alone.

When will I see the final result?

An improvement in facial and jawline definition may be visible relatively early, although initial swelling can obscure the finer details. The face continues to settle over the first six weeks, with further refinement developing over the following months.

Subtle healing, scar maturation and refinement may continue for six to twelve months depending on the individual.

What happens during the procedure?

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. Incisions are carefully positioned around the ear and, where required, within the hairline. Dr Yannis elevates and repositions the SMAS before naturally redraping the skin and conservatively removing any excess.

The exact direction and degree of lift are personalised to your facial anatomy and desired result.

How painful is recovery?

Most patients describe tightness, swelling, tenderness and altered sensation rather than severe pain. Prescribed medication and our structured aftercare programme are used to support comfort throughout the initial recovery period.

Pain that suddenly worsens or is accompanied by unexpected swelling, bleeding or other concerning symptoms should be reported to the clinic promptly.

When can I exercise again?

Gentle walking is encouraged during early recovery. Exercise can then be gradually reintroduced from around two weeks depending on your healing and the intensity of the activity.

More strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and high-impact activity should only resume once your surgical team confirms it is appropriate.