SMAS plication
The SMAS layer is folded and sutured to itself to tighten it. Less dissection, shorter surgery, suits mild-to-moderate laxity.
SMAS facelift in Turkey: cost, technique, results
A SMAS facelift in Turkey costs $13,000–$15,000 all-inclusive with experienced surgeons in 2026, and $19,000–$20,000 with the most credentialed names. It is the established gold-standard facelift for moderate facial laxity and jowling — and the benchmark every newer technique is measured against.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Safa Manav, MD, FEBOPRAS, Facial Rejuvenation Plastic Surgeon · Last reviewed August 2026
8–12 years
Typical longevity2–3 weeks
Back to presentable10–14 days
Fit to fly home
The technique
What the SMAS layer is — and why it matters
The SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) is the fibromuscular layer beneath the skin that gives your face its structure. Skin-only lifts pull the surface and tend to look tight and fade quickly. A SMAS facelift lifts and repositions this deeper layer, so the skin simply follows — which is why results look natural and last 8–12 years.
It is the technique of choice for moderate facial laxity and jowling: enough correction to be genuinely transformative, without the deeper dissection a deep plane lift requires.
Variations
Three ways surgeons work with the SMAS
SMASectomy
A strip of the SMAS is removed and the edges sutured together, tightening the layer in a controlled vector. A middle ground between plication and elevation.
High SMAS elevation
The SMAS is lifted as a flap and repositioned higher, giving stronger midface and jawline correction for moderate laxity.
Comparing approaches? Read the deep plane facelift guide, the mini facelift guide, or overall facelift prices in Turkey.
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FAQ
SMAS facelift questions, answered
How much does a SMAS facelift cost in Turkey in 2026?+
SMAS facelift estimates through the Medolea calculator typically land between $13,000 and $15,000 all-inclusive with experienced facial surgeons, and $19,000–$20,000 with internationally certified, award-recognised surgeons. The price includes surgeon, accredited hospital, anesthesia, medication, VIP transfers and aftercare.
What does SMAS actually mean?+
SMAS stands for superficial musculoaponeurotic system — the fibromuscular layer beneath the skin that gives the face its structure. A SMAS facelift lifts and repositions this layer rather than just pulling skin, which is why results look natural and last longer than skin-only lifts.
SMAS vs deep plane facelift — which is better?+
Neither is universally better. SMAS techniques are the established choice for moderate facial laxity and jowling; deep plane techniques release and reposition deeper structures as one unit and excel for midface descent. The right answer depends on your anatomy — a surgeon confirms it from photographs.
How long does a SMAS facelift last?+
Typically 8–12 years. Longevity depends on skin quality, age, lifestyle and how thoroughly the SMAS layer is repositioned. Because the deeper layer is tightened rather than the skin alone, results outlast mini and skin-only techniques.
What is recovery like after a SMAS facelift?+
Most patients are presentable in 2–3 weeks and cleared to fly home around day 10–14. Swelling and bruising peak in the first week and settle steadily; stitches are removed before you fly.
Important: figures on this page are for planning only. Final pricing and suitability are confirmed after a surgeon reviews your photographs and health history. Message us on WhatsApp.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Safa Manav, MD, FEBOPRAS, Facial Rejuvenation Plastic Surgeon · Last reviewed August 2026