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What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure to create a tighter, more youthful-looking face, jawline, and neck. Unlike a traditional facelift, a deep plane facelift addresses the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS), which is a layer of fibrous connective tissue located between the facial muscles and skin. This allows the procedure to adjust the face's underlying structure, leading to more effective, natural-looking results.

Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift can offer various benefits to anyone unsatisfied with their facial wrinkles and sagging skin. Some of the most common benefits of the procedure include:

  • More youthful facial appearance
  • Smoother, tighter skin around the face, jawline, and neck
  • Tightens loose, sagging skin
  • Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and folds
  • More defined jawline
  • Natural-looking results
  • Eliminates jowls or double chin
  • Restores volume to the cheeks
  • Lifts the brows and corrects drooping eyes
brunette woman with clear skin and blush

Deep Plane Facelift vs. SMAS Facelift

Many people confuse the deep plane facelift with the SMAS facelift, but the two are distinctly different procedures. Both surgeries address the SMAS layer of tissue, but there are differences in how each type of facelift is performed. In a SMAS facelift, the SMAS layer is pulled and stretched using stitches to achieve the desired effect. In a deep plane facelift, the SMAS is carefully elevated from the muscles underneath, releasing the ligaments that anchor the SMAS. As a result, the SMAS layer is lifted without tension, which helps to avoid the “stretched” appearance that some facelifts are known for.

What Should I Expect During My Deep Plane Facelift?

If you believe that a deep plane facelift in Houston may be the right choice for you, the best way to begin the process is by consulting with Dr. Courtney. During this meeting, he will examine your face and neck and discuss your different facelift options. He’ll also have questions about what you want to achieve with the procedure. This will be your chance to ask any questions and voice any concerns that you may have about the surgery. If you choose to move forward with the deep plane facelift, Dr. Courtney will work closely with you to devise a personalized treatment plan. He’ll also give detailed instructions to ensure you’re adequately prepared for the procedure.

Your deep plane facelift will likely be performed as an outpatient procedure. The surgery may be done using local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia. To begin, Dr. Courtney will make small incisions around the ears and hairline. He will then tighten and secure the SMAS layer beneath the skin and release the deeper ligaments. This will allow him to lift and reposition the SMAS, tissue, and skin to achieve the desired results. Once everything has been secured, the doctor will close the incisions and apply bandages to finish the procedure. On average, a deep plane facelift will take around three to five hours.

What Is the Recovery Like After a Deep Plane Facelift?

You should be able to return home within a few hours of your deep plane facelift, but you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you. Dr. Courtney will give detailed instructions to ensure the healing process goes smoothly. These instructions may include:

  • Regularly using a cold compress
  • Sleeping with your head elevated
  • Resting frequently
  • Taking light walks once you feel up to it

Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort during recovery, but these symptoms should gradually subside independently. You should be able to return to work and your routine after approximately 10 to 14 days. However, you should wait about three weeks to resume moderate exercise and four to six weeks to resume strenuous exercise.

Am I a Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

Adults who want a tighter, more youthful face, neck, and jawline could be good candidates for a deep plane facelift. You could also be a good candidate if you’re concerned that a traditional or SMAS facelift will not provide natural-looking results. Ideal candidates for the surgery should meet the following requirements:

  • Be in good physical health
  • Have loose, sagging skin around the face and/or neck
  • Have the desire to be rid of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Have realistic expectations for the procedure
  • Be a non-smoker or willing to quit temporarily
  • Have the desire for tighter facial skin without the “stretched” appearance

How Long Will It Take To See Results After a Deep Plane Facelift?

The full results of your deep plane facelift will become visible gradually. As the bruising and swelling disappear, you’ll see more and more of your tighter, youthful-looking face and neck. On average, it takes around six months for the final results to be revealed. The effects of the procedure typically last for approximately 10 to 15 years.

blonde woman in colorful sweater

Why Choose Dr. Courtney for Your Deep Plane Facelift?

Dr. Courtney El-Zokm, a top plastic surgeon in Houston and board-certified expert, is passionate about helping patients become the best versions of themselves. He takes great pride in getting to know his patients, carefully listening to their unique needs and goals. Using this information, Dr. Courtney creates custom-tailored treatment plans that deliver beautiful, personalized results. With extensive experience in performing numerous successful facelift surgeries, he knows exactly how to help you achieve the youthful, natural-looking facial appearance you desire.

Deep Plane Facelift FAQ's

Can a deep plane facelift address aging in the neck as well as the face?

Yes, a deep plane facelift can be tailored to address both the face and the neck. The procedure allows for significant improvement in the jawline and neck contour by lifting and tightening the deeper tissues, providing a smoother transition between the face and neck.

What role does skin quality play in the success of a deep plane facelift?

While the deep plane facelift primarily targets the underlying muscles and tissues, skin quality still plays a role in the overall result. Patients with good skin elasticity will typically see the best outcomes, though the procedure can still deliver impressive results even for those with less elastic skin.

What is the ideal age range for someone considering a deep plane facelift?

While a deep plane facelift is often performed on individuals in their 50s and 60s, it can also be suitable for younger patients in their 40s who are beginning to see significant signs of aging. The technique is adaptable to various stages of facial aging.

Real People. Real Results.

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