Deep Plane Facelift
Over time, sun exposure and the natural aging process can cause fine lines and wrinkles to develop on the face. As aging progresses, these changes may become more pronounced, leading to deeper facial folds, loss of definition, and sagging skin along the face and neck. For those seeking to restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance, a deep plane facelift may provide a natural-looking solution.
Why a Deep Plane Facelift?
When deciding on facial surgery, the biggest concern for most patients is ending up with an overdone "windswept" look or an undertreated result. A deep plane facelift is designed to prevent exactly that by restoring your facial architecture from within, rather than pulling on the surface layers. Facial tissues are held down to the underlying bone by strong bands called retaining ligaments—think of them like roots from a tree into the ground. “Standard facelifts” often pull against these anchors without releasing them, which tightens the jawline but leaves sunken cheeks and deep smile lines behind with superficial traction lines that can develop from pulling like a tug of war. In a deep plane facelift, the natural space beneath the muscle layer is utilized to safely release these tethering ligaments and maximally move tissue naturally. This also helps minimize skin tension because all the lifting and structural support happens deep beneath the muscle. The skin itself is never pulled tight to hold your face up. It simply redrapes smoothly and naturally over your newly restored contours. The result is not a stretched version of your face, but a rested, natural restoration that lets you age forward gracefully for 10 to 15 years or more. A deep plane facelift is often combined with a deep plane neck lift to make the facial aesthetic subunits more harmonious.
Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery offers deep plane facelift surgery performed by board-certified, and aesthetic fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Gianfranco Frojo. With extensive training and experience in facial aesthetic surgery, Dr. Frojo is dedicated to achieving natural-looking, refined results for his patients.
Ideal Candidates
The best candidates for a deep plane facelift are in good physical and emotional health and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.
A deep plane facelift may be appropriate for individuals looking to address common signs of facial aging, including:
- Creases between the cheeks and nose (nasolabial creases)
- Sagging jowls
- Loose skin of the neck
- Excess fat in the face and neck
- Marionette lines along the lower cheeks and jawline
- Flattened or less defined cheekbones
Procedure
Dr. Frojo performs deep plane facelift surgery on an outpatient basis with the patient under deep sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes between 4-5 hours to perform. A deep plane facelift is designed to address the effects of facial aging while maintaining a natural appearance and creating a refreshed, rejuvinated look.
Costs
There are several factors that determine the total cost of facelift surgery, including:
- Facility fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Surgical fees
- Prescriptions for medication
A deep plane facelift is not covered by insurance because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Feel free to contact the surgical coordinator for pricing and to request more information about this or other cosmetic procedures.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with a deep plane facelift, including injury to facial nerves, scars, infection, bleeding, asymmetries, postoperative discomfort, and adverse reaction to anesthesia. Although significant complications are uncommon, patients should understand that any surgery, performed for any reason, has risks and should not be taken lightly.
During your consultation and pre-operative appointment, Dr. Frojo will take the time to thoroughly explain your procedure, discuss potential risks, and answer any questions you may have so you can feel confident and well-informed about your decision.
Recovery
After a deep plane facelift, bandages will be applied, and a special tube will be inserted under the skin to drain any excess fluid. Prescribed medication will help alleviate any pain and discomfort that exists for the first few days after surgery. Most patients feel they can return to work after about 2-3 weeks, but any strenuous activities and exercises should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
Results
The results of a deep plane facelift will be immediately apparent, but due to swelling and bruising, it may take several months for the final contour to be revealed.
To ensure that the results of facelift surgery are long lasting, sun protection should always be worn when possible.
To find out more about deep plane facelift surgery, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gianfranco Frojo by calling Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery at (757) 305-9185 or filling out our online contact form.
