When the facial contour has begun to sag but there are no deep creases yet, a choice arises: a device-based lift or surgery. The key to the decision is the degree of ptosis (sagging) of the tissues.
What the SMAS is and why it matters
The SMAS is the musculo-aponeurotic layer between the skin and the facial muscles. It is precisely this layer that "holds" the contour. With age the SMAS stretches - jowls appear, the corners of the mouth drop and the jawline blurs. Both the surgeon and the HIFU device work on this very layer, but in different ways.
Non-surgical SMAS lifting (HIFU, Ultraformer MPT)
Focused ultrasound heats the SMAS at precise points to 60-70 °C without damaging the skin. At the heating points the tissue contracts immediately, and this is followed by the synthesis of new collagen - the effect builds over 2-3 months and lasts on average from several months up to a year. Ultraformer MPT, with its micro-pulsed delivery, makes the procedure noticeably more comfortable and faster than classic HIFU. The method works on the contours of both the face and the body.
- No incisions, no general anaesthesia, no recovery period - you can return to your day-to-day activities the same day.
- Suited to mild and moderate ptosis, and "as prevention" after the age of 30-35.
- The result is natural and cumulative, and needs topping up roughly once a year.
- It is important to have the procedure on an original, certified device - only this guarantees the stated treatment parameters and safety.
At SOLAR, SMAS lifting is performed on the Ultraformer MPT - with cartridges for different depths (4.5 mm for the SMAS, 3.0 and 1.5 mm for the dermis), in modes for lifting and for the double-chin area.
More about the SMAS lifting Ultraformer MPT procedureSurgical facelift
A plastic surgeon excises excess skin and tightens the SMAS mechanically. This is the only way to remove pronounced excess tissue. But it involves general anaesthesia, sutures, swelling for 2-3 weeks, recovery of up to 1-2 months, and a cost many times higher. The result lasts 7-10 years.
The essential comparison
| Criterion | HIFU / SMAS (Ultraformer) | Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Ptosis | mild-moderate | pronounced |
| Anaesthesia / incisions | no | yes |
| Recovery | 0-1 day | 2-6 weeks |
| Duration of effect | up to a year, top-up once a year | 7-10 years |
| Price | from a few thousand AED | tens to hundreds of thousands AED |
How to choose
If you are 30-50, the tissues have only just started to descend and you are not ready for surgery - start with HIFU. If there is a large excess of skin and "the device can no longer manage it", the doctor will tell you so directly and refer you to a surgeon. Often the optimal strategy is: device-based support now, surgery much later - or perhaps not needed at all.
Want to find out whether SMAS lifting is right for you?
At a consultation at SOLAR the doctor will assess your tissue ptosis and advise where Ultraformer MPT is enough and where surgery is needed.