The advantage of the SMAS lift is that as the SMAS is lifted vertically, there is excess that can be manipulated in several ways.  In the full face, this excess is removed so as not to add volume to an already round face.  In the thin or hollowed face, this tissue can be folded on itself to increase volume.  In my Santa Barbara plastic surgery practice, I feel the key to facial plastic surgery, particularly face lifts and rhinoplasty, is to individualize the operation to the patient.  The SMAS lift allow me to do just that.