As cosmetic surgery techniques continue to evolve, one procedure that has gained significant attention in recent years is the deep plane facelift. The deep plane facelift offers natural-looking results and long-lasting effects, so it’s worth exploring if you’re looking for surgery that will help you regain a more youthful appearance.
A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique designed to lift and tighten the deeper structures of the face, rather than pulling the skin tighter. The term ‘deep plane’ refers to the layers of tissue that lie beneath the skin and above the muscle. In this procedure, the surgeon works in the deeper facial structures, allowing for a more thorough repositioning of facial tissues.
Unlike traditional facelifts, which primarily address sagging skin by tightening it, the deep plane facelift targets the structural layers beneath the skin. This results in more natural-looking and longer-lasting improvements to the midface, jowls, and neck areas.
Results from a deep plane facelift tend to be long-lasting, offering results for 10-15 years or more due to its more comprehensive tissue repositioning (though it won’t stop the ageing process, of course). It’s particularly effective for addressing sagging in the cheek area, the nasolabial folds, jowls, and the neck. The aim is to smooth out deep wrinkles, redefine the jawline, and lift sagging cheeks, making it ideal for patients with moderate to severe ageing concerns.
While facelifts are typically performed on people in their 50s or 60s, there is no exact age limit for those considering a deep plane facelift. Instead, ideal candidates are determined by the degree of facial ageing and skin elasticity. If you have moderate to severe facial sagging, particularly in the midface, jowls, and neck, you’ll benefit most from the deep plane technique.
While the procedure lifts the deeper structures, good skin elasticity enhances the final result, so to be a good candidate for this technique, we’ll also look for good skin elasticity, and overall good health with no underlying conditions that might complicate recovery.
This facelift is performed under general anaesthetic and takes around 4 – 6 hours depending on the complexity and whether other cosmetic procedures (such as eyelid surgery or fat grafting) are performed at the same time.
Your surgeon will make incisions typically starting in the hairline near the temples, continuing around the ear, and ending in the lower scalp. These incisions are carefully placed to minimise visible scarring.
Your skin will then be lifted and the underlying tissues, including the muscles, fat, and skin will be repositioned. This allows for a more thorough elevation of the cheeks, jawline, and neck without placing tension on the skin.
Afterwards, patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort for the first few weeks though most can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, with full results visible in 3-6 months.
We’ll give you specific instructions to help you enjoy a smooth recovery. Keeping your head elevated, even when sleeping, will help to reduce swelling. We’ll also prescribe pain relief to help you stay comfortable.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with deep plane facelifts. These include infection, hematoma, scarring, and nerve injury. However, when performed by an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon, the risks are minimised, and the outcomes are generally highly successful.
Ready to find out more?
If you’re considering a facelift and desire results that look natural and youthful, the deep plane facelift may be the ideal solution. Get in touch to arrange an initial consultation to find out more.