Working with the SMAS This muscle work prepares us to engage the SMAS: Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System —The scaffold of the face ⸻ SMAS Composition SMAS is made of: • Collagen-rich fascia • Elastic fibers • Aponeurotic (sheet-like) connective tissue • Interconnected with facial expression muscles • Lies between the skin and deeper facial muscles • Just beneath the subcutaneous fat, above the muscle layer • Most developed in the midface, cheeks, and jawline • Extends from the platysma in the neck to the temporal fascia above the cheekbones • In the forehead, it blends into the epicranial aponeurosis • Connects facial and neck fascia—supporting lift and structure in the lower and midface SMAS Function What SMAS does: • Transfers facial muscle movement to the skin • Maintains facial tone and contour • Supports soft tissue lift and structure ⸻ Risks of Applying Too Much Pressure Why gentle touch matters: • Overstretching weakens the SMAS • Disrupts alignment between muscle ...