What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Facial aging is a natural process that, over time, leads to sagging skin, loss of volume, and the development of wrinkles. While numerous cosmetic procedures combat these signs of aging, the deep plane facelift is one of the most advanced and effective procedures for improving the aging face. This surgical procedure has gained popularity for its ability to provide natural, long-lasting results by addressing the deeper structures of the face, not just the superficial layers. But what exactly is a deep plane facelift, and how does it differ from other facelift techniques?

Understanding the Anatomy of Facial Aging

To appreciate the benefits of a deep plane facelift, you must understand how facial aging occurs. The skin loses elasticity as we age, causing the underlying fat pads and muscles to sag. This sagging leads to the formation of jowls, deep nasolabial folds (the lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth), and a general loss of youthful facial contours.

Traditional facelift techniques focus on lifting and tightening the skin and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), a tissue layer covering the deeper facial structures. While this approach can be effective, it often results in a “pulled” or overly tight appearance and may not fully address the deeper causes of facial aging.

What Sets the Deep Plane Facelift Apart?

The deep plane facelift goes beyond the superficial layers of the face to address the deeper structures, including the muscles and fat pads that contribute to facial sagging. Unlike the traditional SMAS facelift, which lifts the skin and SMAS layer separately, the deep plane facelift involves releasing and repositioning these deeper layers together. This technique allows the surgeon to lift and restore the natural contours of the face, providing a more youthful and harmonious appearance.

Key Features of the Deep Plane Facelift:

• Deeper Lift: By targeting the deeper layers of the face, the deep plane facelift provides a more comprehensive lift, particularly in the midface area, including the cheeks and nasolabial folds.
• Natural-Looking Results: The deep plane facelift avoids the “pulled” look that can sometimes occur with traditional facelifts, resulting in a more natural and refreshed appearance.
• Longer-Lasting Outcomes: Because the procedure addresses the root causes of facial sagging, the results of a deep plane facelift are typically longer-lasting than those of traditional facelift techniques.
• Less Damage to the Skin: Because of the design of the procedure, less skin needs to be mobilized. This means that there is less damage to the blood supply to the skin which leads to better healing.

The Deep Plane Facelift Procedure

A deep plane facelift is a more complex procedure than a traditional facelift, requiring a high level of skill and expertise. During the surgery, the surgeon makes incisions similar to those in a traditional facelift, usually along the hairline and around the ears. However, instead of simply lifting the skin, the surgeon releases the deeper layers of the face and repositions them to restore youthful contours.

Steps in the Deep Plane Facelift:

• Incisions: The procedure begins with incisions made along the hairline and around the ears, carefully placed to minimize visible scarring.
• Release and Repositioning: The surgeon releases the SMAS layer and the deeper facial muscles and fat pads. These structures are then repositioned to lift the cheeks, reduce nasolabial folds, and restore a youthful jawline.
• Skin Redraping: Once the deeper layers have been repositioned, the skin is gently redraped over the newly lifted facial structures. Any excess skin is trimmed away, and the incisions are closed with sutures.
• Final Adjustments: The surgeon makes final adjustments to ensure symmetry and balance, resulting in a natural and rejuvenated appearance.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is ideal for individuals who are experiencing significant facial sagging, particularly in the midface and lower face. It is also suitable for those who desire a more natural-looking result without the overly tight appearance that can sometimes result from traditional facelifts.

Ideal Deep Plane Facelift Candidates Include:

• Individuals with moderate to severe facial sagging: Those with deep nasolabial folds, jowls, and sagging cheeks are excellent candidates for this procedure.
• Patients seeking long-lasting results: The deep plane facelift offers results that can last for 10-15 years, making it a great option for those looking for a lasting solution to facial aging.
• Those seeking natural-looking rejuvenation: If you want to look younger without appearing “overdone,” the deep plane facelift provides subtle, natural-looking results.

Recovery and Aftercare

As with any surgical procedure, recovery from a deep plane facelift requires time and care. Because the deep plane facelift involves more extensive work on the deeper layers of the face, the recovery period may be slightly longer than that of a traditional facelift. However, most patients find that the results are well worth the additional downtime.

Typical Risks of Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

While the deep plane facelift is highly effective and generally safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Understanding these risks is essential for making an informed decision.

1. Swelling and Bruising: These are common and expected after surgery. They typically peak in the first week and gradually subside over the next few weeks. However, in some cases, bruising can be more extensive and last longer.
2. Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites. Surgeons typically prescribe antibiotics to minimize this risk, and following post-operative care instructions is crucial.
3. Nerve Injury: One of the more serious risks is temporary or permanent nerve injury. This can result in numbness, weakness, or even loss of movement in certain areas of the face. While most nerve issues resolve over time, some may be permanent in rare cases.
4. Scarring: Although incisions are carefully placed to minimize visible scarring, some patients may develop more noticeable scars, especially if they have a predisposition to keloid or hypertrophic scars.
5. Hematoma: This is a collection of blood under the skin that can occur after surgery. It may require drainage or additional surgery to correct. Hematomas are more common in patients with high blood pressure or those who take certain medications.
6. Asymmetry: Achieving perfect facial symmetry can be challenging, and there is a risk of minor asymmetries post-surgery. Skilled surgeons work meticulously to minimize this risk, but slight variations can occur.
7. Hair Loss: Temporary or permanent hair loss can occur around the incision sites, particularly near the temples or behind the ears. This is usually temporary, but in some cases, it may be permanent.
8. Prolonged Swelling: Some patients may experience prolonged swelling that lasts several months. This can delay the final results of the surgery, requiring patience during the healing process.

What to Expect During Facelift Recovery:

• Downtime: Patients should plan for about three to four weeks of recovery time before returning to their normal activities. Patients can resume light activities after about two weeks, but patients should avoid strenuous exercise for at least six weeks.
• Final Results: While some improvements may be visible immediately, the final results of the deep plane facelift can take several months to become fully apparent as the swelling continues to subside.

Why Choose a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is considered the gold standard in facial rejuvenation for those seeking comprehensive and long-lasting results. Addressing the deeper structures of the face provides a more natural and youthful appearance that can last for many years.

If you’re considering a facelift and want to achieve the best possible results, the deep plane facelift may be the ideal choice. However, choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon specializing in this advanced technique is crucial to ensure the best outcome.

Choosing Dr. Manish Shah for Your Deep Plane Facelift

Dr. Manish Shah, based in Englewood, Colorado, is one of the most experienced facelift surgeons in the Denver area, with over 4,000 facelifts performed since 2005. His extensive experience, particularly with deep plane facelifts, ensures you receive the highest level of care and achieve natural, long-lasting results. If you’re considering a deep plane facelift, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah to discuss your goals and learn more about how this advanced procedure can help you achieve a youthful, rejuvenated appearance. Contact us today to book your appointment.