If you are familiar with cosmetic surgery, you have probably heard of a facelift procedure before. However, have you ever heard of a deep plane facelift? As an effective way to help patients look like their younger selves, this procedure is a great choice for many. Read on to learn more about the deep plane facelift procedure and if it is right for you.

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a procedure to smooth wrinkles in the mid-to-lower face, tighten jowls, and address laxity in the neck area. The deep plane facelift is the gold standard for rejuvenating the lower and mid portions of the face. This procedure can be done under general anesthesia or IV sedation, and the approach is similar to many facelifts in that incisions are created under the chin and around the ears, which allow the surgeon access to tissue that needs to be removed, tightened, or lifted. This advanced facelift technique repositions and tightens the facial tissues in the deepest layer of the face, located below the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). Ligaments that attach the deep tissues to the SMAS will be released and elevated to lift the mid-face. Fat pads may also be re-sculpted and lifted vertically to address hollowed cheeks and jowls.

Who is a Deep Plane Facelift Candidate?

Generally, patients anywhere from 45 to 80 years old with moderate to severe skin laxity or jowling can benefit from a deep plane facelift. However, some people may not be ideal candidates, including those with poorly controlled hypertension, major or significant clotting or bleeding disorder, significant cardiac or pulmonary disease, or who are active smokers.

To ensure that this procedure is right for you, be sure to have an open discussion with your surgeon regarding your health history and expectations.

Deep Plane Facelift Recovery

Because a deep plane facelift addresses the deeper layers of the face, swelling may not be as noticeable as it would be following a traditional facelift. One to two weeks of rest is recommended following this procedure, and some patients may be able to return to a desk job after one week. By the end of the second week, some mild bruising may still be apparent, which can easily be covered with makeup. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions for a smooth recovery.

Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift

There are many benefits to undergoing a deep place facelift procedure. One significant benefit is that results tend to be more natural-looking and longer-lasting than those of a traditional facelift. Because the surgeon can manipulate the underlying tissue and work with greater precision, they do not need to pull tissues as tightly as a traditional facelift requires. The result is a more natural-looking facelift that’s just as effective.

This procedure can also reshape the face for more definition, as there is an opportunity to also move cheek fat pads to achieve a greater lift in the middle of the face. Paired with a tighter upper neck and smoother skin, patients can look and feel years younger!

Schedule a Consultation

While a deep plane facelift improves the jawline, upper neck, and cheek areas there are also an array of cosmetic procedures to complement these results. Many people find that a lip lift nicely balances the results of a facelift, while other nonsurgical procedures can also be beneficial.

To learn more about the deep plane facelift procedure and if it is right for you, please contact FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery in Lone Tree and Denver, CO today. Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons, Christopher Cote, MD & Nicolette Picerno, MD, are dedicated to helping you meet your aesthetic goals.