Background and Objectives: According to the PRISMA guidelines, this meta-analysis evaluates the outcomes of deep Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) lift versus Minimal Access Cranial Suspension (MACS) lift techniques in facelift surgery. Materials and Methods: We reviewed literature that included 20 studies involving a total of 7716 patients, of which four studies met our inclusion criteria, focusing on 286 patients (MACS n: 186 and SMAS n: 100). Our analysis assessed surgical duration, complications, pain levels, and aesthetic results. Results: Although both techniques yielded comparable aesthetic outcomes and postoperative complications, the MACS lift demonstrated a significantly shorter surgical duration (SMD = 2.05; 95% CI 1.61–2.48; p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%) which has high impact on patient recovery, risk of complications and cost-effectiveness. Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for further research into varying techniques to solidify their efficacy and safety profiles.
Pandkhahi et al. (Sun,) studied this question.