The promise is a new appearance that would be comparable to a facelift. In this blog, we will delve into what SMAS actually is, whether the treatment delivers on its promises, and what other treatments are available to tighten the skin.
What is SMAS?
SMAS is the abbreviation for the Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System. This is an anatomical structure in the skin and underlying tissue of the face. It is a combination of connective tissue and muscles and is connected to both the superficial skin layers and the deeper structures. This may sound quite vague, so we will briefly explain the connection between SMAS and skin aging.
SMAS and skin aging
As we age, the SMAS loosens. This leads to the development of sagging cheeks, loss of jawline definition, laugh lines, and neck laxity. Because the SMAS is located throughout the entire skin, it is often treated in its entirety. We often see this in the form of facelifts.
The effect of SMAS lifting botox
SMAS lifting botox means that injections are given in the same places where the skin would be pulled back during a facelift. Along the hairline, above the ears, and down the neck. However, it has no direct effect on the SMAS. Botox is injected into the superficial muscles, causing the respective muscles to relax, whereas treatments aimed at the SMAS are intended to tighten the skin. Therefore, it has no effect on skin laxity caused by the SMAS. This layer is too deep to be reached by botox.
Facial treatments for skin tightening
Besides a facelift, there are no treatments that affect the tightening of the SMAS. However, there are other treatments you can undergo to improve overall skin texture, and these treatments also yield beautiful results. The added advantage is that they are much less invasive than a facelift. We list them for you:
- High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), which uses focused ultrasound energy to create heat in the skin. This stimulates collagen production and strengthens the tissue;
- Morpheus8, this treatment with radiofrequency energy heats the deeper skin layers with radiofrequency energy and microneedling. This tightens and lifts the skin;
- Collagen-stimulating injections, such as Sculptra or Radiesse. These ensure that the skin is nourished from within and collagen production is stimulated.
Curious about which treatment is suitable for your skin? Then schedule a non-binding consultation with one of our doctors.
Nicoline has been working in cosmetic medicine since 2015 and has performed over 30,000 Botox and filler treatments in recent years. Nicoline is registered with the Profile Register Cosmetic Medicine as a Cosmetic Doctor KNMG and is a member of the Dutch Association for Cosmetic Medicine (NVCG). In addition, she was an educator for a long time and, in that capacity, trained various cosmetic doctors and provided training sessions. To stay informed of the latest techniques and products, Nicoline regularly attends conferences at home and abroad. **Honesty and naturalness – that is my starting point** "For me, cosmetic medicine revolves around one thing: a beautiful, natural result where you recognize yourself, but look just a little fresher and more rested. I work carefully and safely, listen carefully to what you want and what you don't want, and give honest advice – even if something turns out not to be necessary. Not every wrinkle needs to be treated. Not every area needs extra volume. My role is to advise what *does* work and what is better left undone. Because 'less is more' is not just a nice saying – it is the core of my working method. Through my many years of experience, both as a practitioner and as an educator, I know exactly how to make subtle improvements that suit your natural face. It's not about nobody seeing that you've had a treatment – it's about everyone seeing how good you look," says Nicoline. **Experience & specializations** - Cosmetic Doctor KNMG since 2015 - 30,000+ Botox and filler treatments - Former educator of cosmetic doctors - Registered in the Profile Register Cosmetic Medicine - Member of the Dutch Association for Cosmetic Medicine (NVCG) - Internationally trained and up-to-date with the latest techniques
