Facelift guide
Deep plane vs SMAS facelift in Seoul, Korea
Both techniques lift the SMAS, the muscle layer under the skin. A SMAS facelift tightens or folds the SMAS from above, while a deep plane facelift goes beneath it and releases the retaining ligaments, so the cheek and jowl move up as one unit. The deep plane approach usually gives a more natural mid-face and jawline result that lasts longer.
Side-by-side
| SMAS facelift | Deep plane facelift | |
|---|---|---|
| Layer lifted | SMAS tightened (plication or SMASectomy) | Skin + SMAS lifted together below the SMAS |
| Ligaments | Usually left in place | Retaining ligaments released |
| Mid-face / nasolabial folds | Limited improvement | Better improvement |
| Skin tension | Moderate | Low; skin is not stretched |
| Surgeon skill needed | High | Very high |
Why Grand uses the deep plane
Grand lifts the ligaments, SMAS and skin together to treat the cause of sagging rather than the surface. The clinic's deep plane facelift and deep plane mini lift both use this principle.
Is it more risky?
Working in the deep plane requires precise knowledge of facial nerve anatomy. Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive facelift experience, and ask how many deep plane lifts they perform.
Frequently asked questions
Which facelift lasts the longest?
Deep plane facelifts generally last longer than skin-only or SMAS plication lifts because the lift is anchored in deeper, stronger tissue.
Is a deep plane facelift better for Asian faces?
Many Asian patients have heavier soft tissue and a wide mid-face. Releasing the ligaments allows this tissue to move upward, which is why Grand prefers the deep plane approach.
About this page. Procedure details on this page come from Grand Plastic Surgery's published clinical information. Individual plans, surgery time and recovery vary and are confirmed only after an in-person examination with the operating surgeon. Last updated 2026-09-27.
Send your photos for a free facelift assessment
Reply within 24 hours in English. Interpreters available for Chinese, Russian, Japanese, Mongolian, Vietnamese and Thai.