2026-06-04
Types and Differences of Facelifts: A Guide to Choosing Between SMAS Volume Lift vs. Full Facelift
Facelifts to resolve sagging skin and wrinkles caused by aging require different methods depending on the individual's condition. At 345 Plastic Surgery, Chief Director Dr. Han Kyu-nam, with 19 years of experience, proposes customized solutions by age and symptom through the SMAS Volume Lift and FULL Facelift. Compare the dissection range, recovery period, and expected effects of each surgery in detail to find the perfect lifting method for you.
Customized Solutions Proposed by a Lifting Key Doctor with 19 Years of Experience
As the preference for a youthful appearance increases regardless of age or gender, the types of lifting surgeries are also diversifying. However, just because a surgery is popular does not mean the same method should be applied to everyone. This is because natural-looking results over time can only be expected when each individual's unique facial muscle distribution, fat volume, and degree of aging progression are accurately assessed.
Based on 19 years of clinical know-how, Chief Director Dr. Han Kyu-nam of 345 Plastic Surgery personally oversees the entire process from consultation to post-operative care, establishing a lifting plan optimized for each patient's facial structure.
SMAS Volume Lift: Simultaneous Elasticity Improvement and Volume Augmentation
The SMAS Volume Lift is a complex lifting solution that elevates sagging skin elasticity while simultaneously filling in volume in sunken areas. Unlike a general facelift, it is performed with minimal incisions only in the necessary areas, which has the advantage of a relatively quick recovery.
- Target Audience: Those in their 30s or older with concerns about early aging and localized sagging.
- Characteristics: Creates a three-dimensional effect by removing unnecessary fat and transplanting only pure fat.
- Advantages: Reduced scar burden due to minimal incisions, and a return to daily life is possible on the same day.
FULL Facelift: Precise Improvement of Deep Wrinkles and Neck Wrinkles
The FULL Facelift, as the name suggests, is a surgery that comprehensively improves aging phenomena across the entire face. The core of this surgery lies in 'dissection'. By delicately separating the skin tissue and muscle layer, it resolves the fundamental cause of wrinkles.
Wrinkles do not simply form on the surface of the skin but also occur in the muscle layer. Therefore, long-term stable lifting changes can only be expected when an appropriate range is dissected and the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer is firmly pulled and fixated.
345's Exclusive 4-Layer Fixation Lifting System
Both the SMAS Volume Lift and FULL Facelift are not simple methods that only pull the skin layer. 345 Plastic Surgery firmly pulls and fixates the following four layers:
- Epidermis (Skin)
- SMAS Layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)
- Retaining Ligament
- Temporal Fascia
By fixating in these four layers, the lifting effect is maintained for a longer period, and the overall facial line can be smoothly refined.
Choosing the Right Lifting for You (Comparison Table)
| Category | SMAS Volume Lift | FULL Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended Age | 30s and older | 50s and older |
| Incision Range | Minimal incision above or below the ear | Wide range including the front and back of the ear |
| Recovery Period | Return to daily life on the same day | Requires a recovery period of about 1 week |
| Main Effects | Elasticity improvement + Volume grafting | Distinct improvement of deep wrinkles and neck wrinkles |
※ The final surgical method is determined through a consultation with a specialist based on the individual's skin condition and aging progression.
345's Trust System for Safe Surgery
In plastic surgery, the safety of the process is just as important as the results. 345 Plastic Surgery operates a thorough safety system so that patients can undergo surgery with peace of mind.
- 3 Resident Anesthesiologists: Specialists who have worked closely with the Chief Director for a long time are in-house to conduct real-time monitoring.
- Recovery Center Operation: Provides systematic progress checks and recovery management in a separate, independent space.
- Dantrolene Always in Stock: Essential medications are stocked in preparation for rare emergency situations (malignant hyperthermia) that may occur during surgery.
As lifting surgery brings about a significant change in image with a single choice, we advise you to consult thoroughly with a specialist who has abundant clinical experience to establish a plan optimized for you.