What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that defines and lifts the features by uniquely addressing the underlying muscle and connective tissue under the skin, called the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). This underlying network of tissues is located under the skin, but over the facial muscles, forming the framework and underlying structure of the face.
The Difference Between a Traditional Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift
Facelift procedures have evolved significantly in recent years, offering patients a range of choices for combating facial aging. Two popular options are traditional facelifts and deep plane facelifts, each with unique advantages and considerations.
Traditional facelifts, or SMAS facelifts, target the lower two-thirds of the face. This procedure involves incisions around the ears and hairline to access and lift the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer. Repositioning the SMAS tightens loose skin and muscles, reducing wrinkles, jowls, and neck sagging. This versatility makes traditional facelifts ideal for mild to moderate facial aging.
On the other hand, deep plane facelifts go further by addressing not only the SMAS but also deeper facial tissues. This technique lifts and repositions facial muscles and connective tissues typically untouched in traditional facelifts. Deep plane facelifts offer more dramatic and longer-lasting results, particularly in the midface and jowl areas.
A significant distinction lies in the extent of tissue dissection and repositioning. Traditional facelifts focus on superficial layers, while deep plane facelifts address deeper structures, yielding greater improvements in sagging and volume loss. However, deep plane facelifts are more complex, time-consuming, and may entail a slightly longer recovery period with a slightly elevated risk of temporary nerve damage. They are generally recommended for advanced aging or extensive rejuvenation.
Overall, traditional facelifts and deep plane facelifts effectively combat facial aging but vary in tissue involvement and enhancement level. Both options can achieve remarkable results, restoring a youthful appearance.
Results after a deep plane facelift
A deep plane facelift dramatically lifts, defines, and tightens the facial features to achieve a rejuvenated, not altered, youthful appearance.
This technique does not rely on tight sutures and tension to achieve results. This allows you get a dramatic and natural rejuvenation without look pulled or operated on.
Results from a deep plane facelift last longer than other types of facelifts, lasting for as long as 10-15 years.
Candidates for a deep plane facelift
Ideal candidates for a deep plane facelift are patients who want a natural, long lasting facial rejuvenation result that treats the root causes of facial aging instead of camouflaging them.
To determine if you’re an ideal candidate, Dr. Bryant will examine your skin and discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns. Candidates for a facelift should meet the following requirements:
- Are generally healthy
- Have no serious medical conditions
- Do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with a deep plane facelift
- Are not taking blood-thinning medications or can safely stop taking them before the procedure
Benefits of a deep plane facelift
The popular deep plane facelift achieves many benefits for patients who want to rejuvenate their appearance. Benefits include the following:
- Long-lasting facial rejuvenation
- Dramatic results
- Lifted, defined features
- Tighter skin
- Eliminated jowls and/or double chin
- Turns back the cloak as much as ten years
- Smooths and softens creases, lines and wrinkles
- Causes less skin trauma and results in a shorter recovery time than other facelift procedures
- Minimal, less-noticeable scarring
- Achieves a defined and contoured jawline, neck, and cheekbones
- Results appear rejuvenated, not altered
- Replenishes facial volume
- Boosts confidence
Why choose Refine Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics for a deep plane facelift?
Dr. Lucas Bryant is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon. As a specialist in facial procedures such as the deep plane facelift & traditional facelifts in Nashville, he customizes every procedure to the exact needs of his patients. He uses the most modern, advanced techniques to achieve a rejuvenated, not altered appearance.