Deep Plane FaceLift

Facial aging might be associated with wrinkles, but there’s a lot more to the aging process than these fairly minor surface changes. In fact, it’s the changes that occur in the deeper soft tissues of the face that are responsible for the more pronounced signs of aging that would necessitate a facelift. Collagen production declines, causing the skin to lose elasticity and firmness and begin to sag. The constant pull of gravity only exacerbates this downward migration. Over time, this causes laxity and softening in the skin itself that leads to droopiness and deep wrinkles.

A deep plane facelift smooths away loose skin folds and creates a firmer texture while simultaneously tightening the underlying supportive layers of the facial structure for long-lasting results.

The deep plane facelift is a more advanced surgical technique that targets deeper facial structures than traditional facelift methods. By repositioning the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and underlying connective tissues rather than pulling only at the surface, this approach allows for a more natural-looking rejuvenation. It provides long-lasting results that resist the “pulled” appearance often associated with older techniques.

One of the key benefits is its ability to lift the midface vertically, which adds volume to the cheeks and improves definition without the need for fillers. The deep plane method lifts the face and neck together as a continuous unit, restoring youthful contours in a balanced, proportional way. Many patients also enjoy a smoother recovery with less swelling and bruising, as the deeper tissue repositioning reduces trauma to the skin. Additionally, incisions are typically well-hidden and heal with minimal visible scarring.

The deep plane technique offers several unique advantages over older facelift methods:

• More natural-looking results. The deep plane facelift lifts and repositions the deeper facial tissues – including the SMAS and the connective tissue beneath it – as one unit, rather than pulling just the skin or the SMAS layer alone. This allows for smoother, more natural-looking results and avoids the “windswept” look that can be characteristic of older techniques.
• Improved midface rejuvenation. Traditional facelifts primarily address the lower face and jowls, but the deep plane facelift technique effectively lifts and restores volume to the cheeks and midface area, restoring younger-looking facial contours without the need for additional procedures or fillers.
• Shorter recovery. Although it involves deeper tissues, the deep plane facelift tends to result in a shorter recovery. Since the skin and deeper tissues are lifted together in one layer, less tension is placed on the skin, reducing swelling, bruising and the risk of complications like skin rippling or poor healing.
• Less bruising and swelling. Additionally, the deep plane method protects superficial blood vessels and lymphatic drainage, leading to reduced bruising and swelling compared to traditional methods that create more extensive skin flaps.
• Longer-lasting results. Because deep plane facelifts address the underlying facial structures, the results tend to be longer-lasting than with skin-only or SMAS-only facelift techniques, which focus on more superficial layers.

A facelift is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, which is why our doctors begin every treatment plan with a thorough, one-on-one consultation. During this visit, your surgeon will take time to understand your specific concerns, goals and expectations.

He will also perform a comprehensive physical evaluation, including an assessment of your skin quality, underlying facial structure and the extent of aging. This allows the doctor to determine which surgical technique will be most effective, whether a deep plane facelift alone or in combination with other procedures.

Your surgeon will also walk you through what to expect before, during and after surgery, including details about anesthesia, recovery time and when you can expect to see your results. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss complementary treatments if desired.

One benefit of the deep plane facelift method is that recovery tends to be shorter than with traditional facelifts. During your initial facelift recovery period, your surgeon may recommend wearing a supportive bandage to help you stay more comfortable and reduce any fluid buildup. By about 1 week after your surgery, swelling should be greatly decreased and you should be able to cover any residual bruising with makeup. 

Most people are able to return to work, social activities and light exercise within 1 to 2 weeks after their facelift, though you will need to limit vigorous physical activity for several weeks as you continue to recover. By around the 6-week mark, you should be able to resume your normal exercise routine.