What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Navigating the different facelift techniques can be a bit daunting for women and men considering facial plastic surgery. Some names have more to do with marketing than results, which can create additional confusion. Among the several options available, the deep plane facelift is the technique that can produce the most dramatic, natural-looking results when performed by a plastic surgeon with extensive training.

In this blog post, I’ll explain what distinguishes a deep plane facelift from other techniques and point out that not everyone is a good candidate for the procedure. Some patients can benefit from less invasive facelift techniques, and choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who knows which procedure is right for you is essential.

Is the Deep Plane Facelift a New Technique?

A deep plane facelift is modern facial plastic surgery’s most contemporary and popular facelift. The modern facelift developed as plastic surgeons realized that facial aging involved the loss of volume below the skin. More aesthetically pleasing and longer-lasting results required a different approach than the skin-only techniques that created the “wind-blown” appearance.

The SMAS Facelift

One of the most significant developments in facial plastic surgery emerged when surgeons recognized the importance of the layer of muscle, fibrous tissue, and fat below the skin—called the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). The SMAS facelift elevated this layer, creating results that looked more natural. The SMAS technique remains a popular option for younger facelift patients who have early signs of facial aging.

The Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift started gaining popularity in the early 1990s and has continued to evolve to produce even more significant midface, jawline, and neck rejuvenation. Patients who undergo deep plane facelifts get results that include a contoured jawline, tightened neck skin, minimal wrinkles, and firmer skin that add up to a more youthful appearance.

Deep Plane Facelift Before and After Photos

Deep Plane vs SMAS Facelift: What’s the Difference?

As we age, the SMAS loses its elasticity and sags while attached to the bone and skin with tough, flexible bands of connective tissue called ligaments. In a SMAS facelift, the surgeon elevates and tightens the layer of muscle and tissue by folding it over itself without releasing the ligaments.

This approach improves the appearance of the lower face and neck but isn’t adequate for patients with sagging cheeks and aging in the midface.

A deep plane facelift restores a more youthful appearance to the midface, jawline, and neck by elevating the deeper foundation of facial and neck muscles. During a deep plane facelift, the surgeon releases the 4 ligaments that anchor the connective tissue and muscle and then lifts the SMAS without putting unwanted tension on the skin.

Who Is a Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

During the consultation, I assess the patient’s facial anatomy and the degree of sagging and discuss their concerns. Evaluating a patient is essential to determining the best facelift technique for each patient. The SMAS facelift is better suited for patients experiencing early signs of aging, like jowls and mild to moderate sagging. A deep plane lift is better for more advanced aging, such as significant skin laxity and deep creases and folds.

Many patients will also benefit from contouring the neck’s soft tissues and muscles through a deep neck lift with your deep plane facelift. You can learn more about the differences between a facelift and a neck lift in an earlier blog post. I may recommend combining a deep plane facelift with a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or laser resurfacing for the most youthful and natural results.

What About Deep Plane Facelift Scars?

The incisions needed for a deep plane facelift are smaller than those for a traditional, or SMAS, facelift. I take care to conceal the incisions for both techniques within the natural creases around the ears and the hairline. In general, a deep plane facelift results in less visible scarring.

Start With a Consultation

Our board-certified plastic surgeons have extensive experience performing facial plastic surgery at Reveal Plastic Surgery. We can discuss your best options if you’re weighing the benefits of a deep plane facelift at our San Jose practice against the advantages of a SMAS facelift. Please request a consultation using our online form or call us at (408) 356-4241 with your questions. We offer complimentary cosmetic consultations.