Surgical facelifts are a popular choice among people longing to recapture a more youthful appearance. While there are numerous options available as far as the specific technique involved, one specialized method that has been gaining popularity is the deep plane facelift. This technique aims to produce remarkable, natural-looking results that could last up to 10 years or more.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
Deep plane lift is a technique described by Sam Hamra in 1990. “Deep plane” is the term used to describe the anatomic plane that lies between the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and the deeper layer of muscles responsible for facial expressions. It generally incorporates the release of ligaments attached to the deep plane layer to achieve more tension-free movement of the midface. This ligamentous release is closer to the facial nerve hence one of the increased risks with this procedure.
Dr. Elizabeth was trained in deep plane lifting during her fellowship as her director was an early adopter of this technique. Recently deep plane lifts have gained popularity. While not new or revolutionary as sometimes claimed, it does provide more mobility of the midface which can be desirable in certain patients. Of note, there have been no scientific studies showing better long term results with the deep plane despite frequent claims to that effect. Currently the trend is individualized variations and names for the original technique which can be confusing as a consumer. A private consultation with Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker at Atlanta Face & Body is the first step to helping you decide if a Signature lift with deep plane is best to meet your personal aesthetic goals.
How does the deep plane facelift compare to traditional facelifts?
The concept of the deep plane facelift is to operate beneath the supportive SMAS layer of the face by addressing this layer and releasing certain ligaments that tether it to the facial structure. The technique of a deep plane facelift lifts the skin and muscle (SMAS) as one whole unit. As far as results, both SMAS lifting and deep plane can provide significant improvement, but how long results last will depend on a number of factors, including a patient’s age, lifestyle, and individual skin structure.
What are the expected results of a deep plane facelift?
Once complete healing has taken place, a deep plane facelift often results in dramatic, yet natural-looking facial rejuvenation while also restoring volume to the cheek area. The midface, cheeks, jowls, and neck are lifted as a single unit, typically resulting in a more balanced, refreshed, youthful appearance.
Who is a candidate for a deep plane facelift?
Men and women who are showing signs of aging in the form of significant sagging skin on the face and neck may be candidates for a deep plane facelift. All surgical facelift patients should be in overall good physical health and have a clear understanding of the surgical outcome and potential risks. Dr. Elizabeth will discuss all the details with you to help you determine if a deep plane facelift is the right procedure for you during your private consultation.
How does the deep plane facelift compare to traditional facelifts?
The concept of the deep plane facelift is to operate beneath the supportive SMAS layer of the face by addressing this layer and releasing certain ligaments that tether it to the facial structure. With traditional facelift procedures, strategic incisions allow for the skin to be lifted and tightened, but the underlying SMAS layer is generally untouched. The technique of a deep plane facelift lifts the skin and muscle (SMAS) as one whole unit. As far as results, both procedures can provide significant improvement, but how long results last will depend on a number of factors, including a patient’s age, lifestyle, and individual skin structure. The deep plane facelift, however, is intended to provide more impactful, longer-lasting results by comparison.
How long does deep plane facelift surgery take?
While many deep plane facelifts can be completed in about two hours, more extreme cases could take anywhere from three to four hours depending on the significance of skin laxity. That doesn’t include the time needed for surgery prep and post-op recovery.
What is the recovery like following a deep plane facelift?
While the invasiveness of the deep plane facelift can offer dramatic results, it can also come with more recovery time and somewhat greater risk for side effects. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness around the re-positioned areas are common for the first several days, but these effects gradually diminish on their own. Pain medication may be prescribed to help you feel more comfortable during the healing process, and we’ll also recommend you apply cold compresses to help alleviate swelling and get plenty of rest. Though rare when performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon, a potentially serious complication from this procedure may include nerve damage of the face.
It can take up to three weeks before a deep plane facelift patient is comfortable resuming their regular activities. Full healing generally takes place over the course of several months on average. Dr. Elizabeth will discuss all the specifics regarding your recovery and make sure you have a clear understanding of what to expect during your private consultation.
What are the expected results of a deep plane facelift?
Once complete healing has taken place, a deep plane facelift often results in dramatic, yet natural-looking facial rejuvenation while also restoring volume to the cheek area. The midface, cheeks, jowls, and neck are lifted as a single unit, typically resulting in a more balanced, refreshed, youthful appearance.
