SMAS Facelift
Repositions the deep SMAS layer for durable, natural results. Our signature technique.
Face · BodyCode Aesthetics
Facelift (SMAS)
Timeless. Tightened. Natural.
Reverse the visible signs of facial aging — repositioning descended tissues and redefining the jawline. A SMAS facelift at BodyCode Aesthetics delivers refreshed, natural results that last a decade or more.
3–5 hrs
Surgery Time
GA
Anaesthesia
2 wks
Recovery
10+ years
Results
Abuja, Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria
What is a SMAS Facelift?
Refreshed. Not Reinvented.
A SMAS facelift (rhytidectomy) treats age-related laxity in the lower face, jawline and upper neck by repositioning the deeper structural layer of the face — the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) — and re-draping the skin without tension.
At BodyCode Aesthetics our signature SMAS technique delivers refreshed, naturally beautiful results — never the "windswept" look of older facelift techniques.
- Repositions descended cheek and jowl tissue
- Sharpens the jawline definitively
- Improves upper neck laxity and banding
- Hidden incisions — at the hairline and behind the ear
- Durable result lasting 10+ years
- Natural movement preserved — no "tight" look
Techniques We Offer
Tailored to your anatomy & goals
Deep Plane Facelift
Releases ligaments deeper than standard SMAS — for the most powerful and long-lasting result.
Facelift + Necklift
Combined to address upper face and neck together — the most commonly requested option.
Facelift + Fat Transfer
Adds natural volume to cheeks and tear troughs alongside the lift.
Is It Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
A facelift is best for patients with visible laxity of the lower face, jowls and upper neck.
Visible Lower-Face Laxity
Jowling, descent of cheek tissue, blurring of the jawline.
Realistic Expectations
You want to look refreshed — not different. We do not change facial identity.
Good General Health
You are a non-smoker with no uncontrolled medical conditions affecting healing.
Skin Quality
Reasonably elastic skin supports a durable, smooth result.
Time for Recovery
You can take 2 weeks of social downtime — visible bruising peaks at 7–10 days.
Not Suitable If…
Facelift is not recommended in smokers (until smoking stops 6+ weeks), in patients with uncontrolled blood pressure, or for patients seeking a substitute for non-surgical treatment of fine lines.
Step by Step
The Procedure at BodyCode Aesthetics
Every facelift is bespoke. The procedure follows a careful sequence designed to maximise lift and minimise scarring.
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01
Consultation & Planning
Detailed facial assessment, photographs and discussion of expected outcome. Incision plan tailored to your hairline.
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02
Pre-Operative Preparation
Blood tests, medical clearance, smoking cessation, blood pressure optimisation.
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03
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia with experienced anaesthetic team.
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04
Hidden Incisions
Incisions placed at the hairline, in front of and behind the ear — concealed by hair and natural skin folds.
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05
SMAS Elevation & Repositioning
The deep SMAS layer is mobilised and repositioned upward and inward for a natural, durable lift.
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06
Skin Re-draping
Skin is re-draped over the lifted SMAS without tension — preserving natural movement.
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07
Optional Adjuncts
Necklift, fat transfer or eyelid surgery can be performed in the same session for comprehensive rejuvenation.
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08
Closing & Recovery
Multi-layer suturing; soft head bandage; aftercare instructions for the first 48 hours.
Flexible financing & payment plans available — confirmed at your consultation.
See financing options
Why Choose Us
Why BodyCode Aesthetics?
Specialist Facial Surgeons
All facelifts performed by board-certified surgeons with extensive facial rejuvenation experience.
SMAS Technique Mastery
Repositioning the deep structural layer — not just pulling skin — delivers natural, lasting results.
Hidden Incision Planning
Carefully placed incisions hide in your hairline and natural skin folds.
Combined Procedure Expertise
Routine combination with necklift, eyelid surgery or fat transfer for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Two Premium Clinics
Performed in Abuja and Lagos with full overnight facilities.
Healing Journey
Recovery Timeline
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01Day 1 – 3 Immediately Post-Surgery
Initial Rest
Head bandage in place; significant swelling and some bruising. Sleep elevated. Cold compresses help.
- Rest with head elevated
- Cold compresses
- Take medication on schedule
- No bending forward
- No straining
- No driving
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02Days 4 – 10 Early Recovery
Bruising Peaks Then Fades
Bruising typically peaks at days 3–5 and fades from days 7–10. Sutures removed around day 7. First follow-up review.
- Gentle activity
- Use camouflage makeup once cleared
- Attend follow-up
- No exercise
- No heavy lifting
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03Weeks 2 – 3 Social Return
Look Yourself in Public
Bruising essentially resolved. Some residual swelling — but you look yourself in public. Many patients return to work at 2 weeks.
- Return to non-physical work
- Resume light social life
- Begin scar massage
- No gym yet
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04Weeks 4 – 8 Activity Resumes
Exercise Returns
Cardio cleared. Strength training gradually reintroduced. Swelling continues to subside revealing the final shape.
- Cardio cleared
- Gradual strength training
- Scar care continues
- Avoid sun on incisions
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053 – 6 Months Final Results
Refreshed, Not Reinvented
Final shape visible. Scars maturing to fine pale lines hidden in hairline. Most patients describe a deeply satisfying, natural-looking rejuvenation.
- Maintain SPF daily
- Continued scar care
- Annual review
Compression
- Head bandage day 1
- Soft support sleeping for 2 weeks
- Sleep elevated for 2 weeks
Diet & Hydration
- High protein for healing
- Hydrate well
- Anti-inflammatory foods
- Avoid alcohol 4 weeks
Activity Guide
- Walk from day 2
- Cardio from week 4
- Full activity from week 6+
- No straining/bending for 3 weeks
Scar & Skin Care
- Silicone gel from week 3
- SPF daily on healed incisions
- Massage when cleared
- No direct sun for 3 months
Transparency First
Risks & Considerations
Every patient deserves complete honesty. These risks are rare when surgery is performed by BodyCode Aesthetics' expert team.
Bruising & Swelling
Expected and substantial in the first 2 weeks. Resolves predictably with rest and cold compresses.
Haematoma
Small risk of post-operative bleeding requiring early review. Minimised by blood pressure control.
Scar Visibility
Hidden in hairline and behind ear. Fade significantly over 6–12 months.
Sensation Changes
Temporary numbness or tingling around the ear is common; resolves over weeks to months.
Asymmetry
Minor side-to-side differences can occur; revision is rarely needed.
Nerve Injury
Very rare temporary or permanent weakness of facial nerve branches. Minimised by precise dissection.
Our Commitment to Safety
BodyCode Aesthetics performs facelift surgery exclusively with experienced surgical and anaesthetic teams in fully-equipped surgical facilities.
When is the right age for a facelift?
There is no fixed age — what matters is the presence of visible laxity. Most patients are in their late 40s to 60s, but earlier and later are both possible.
Will it make me look different?
No — a well-performed facelift makes you look refreshed, not different. We preserve your facial identity.
How long do results last?
10 years or more is typical. You will continue to age — but always from a younger starting point than if you had not had the lift.
Will I have visible scars?
Scars are placed in the hairline, in front of the ear (in the natural tragal fold) and behind the ear. They are hidden by hair and natural skin folds and fade significantly over 6–12 months.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes — common combinations include necklift, eyelid surgery, brow lift and fat transfer. Combined procedures share one anaesthetic and one recovery.
What's the difference between facelift and "thread lift"?
Threads are a non-surgical temporary alternative — they tighten skin briefly but do not address the deep SMAS layer or excess skin. A surgical facelift gives durable, comprehensive results.
When can I return to work?
Most patients with non-physical jobs return at 2 weeks. Some residual swelling persists but is concealable with makeup.
Is the surgery painful?
Discomfort is mild to moderate — most patients describe tightness rather than sharp pain. Well-managed with prescribed medication.
Will I need someone at home?
Yes — for the first 24–72 hours. You will not be able to drive or perform certain self-care activities initially.
How do I book a consultation?
Click "Book Consultation" or WhatsApp us. Facelift consultations are extended to allow detailed planning.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on the procedure, the time required and any combined treatments. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Do you offer financing?
We offer flexible payment options. Contact us for current arrangements.
Facelift (SMAS)
Book a private consultation with our board-certified surgeons. We typically respond within one working day.