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A deep plane facelift is a facelift technique in which the layer beneath the SMAS, the face's musculo-aponeurotic layer, is entered, the tissues are released as a single unit, and they are repositioned upward and backward. Its difference from a classic facelift is that it repositions the underlying supporting tissue instead of pulling the skin. Sagging in the cheek, jawline and neck can be addressed this way. Which area will be planned is determined during the examination.
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a facelift technique in which the layer beneath the SMAS, the face's musculo-aponeurotic layer, is entered, the tissues are released as a single unit and repositioned upward and backward. This definition is enough to understand the logic of the method.
The goal of the technique is to correct sagging in the cheek, jawline and neck. It focuses on the supporting layer and ligaments beneath the skin, not the skin surface. For this reason it differs from methods that rely only on tightening the skin.
The SMAS is a layer that connects the facial muscles of expression and the superficial supporting tissues. As age advances, this layer can loosen and sagging can appear in the facial contour. The deep plane technique aims to release this layer and bring it to a more natural position.
For example, if sagging in the cheek area comes from loosening of the underlying supporting tissue rather than the skin surface, the deep plane approach directly addresses the source of the problem. Similarly, jawline laxity can be treated by repositioning this layer. Which layer and to what extent it will be treated is evaluated during the examination.
The platysma muscle is also part of the face and neck contour. During planning both the SMAS and the condition of this muscle are evaluated together. This way, sagging in the neck and under the chin can be part of the same plan.
How is a deep plane facelift performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in a fully equipped operating room. First, the areas to be treated are determined by examining the face and neck contour. The plan is built according to the person's tissue structure and expectations; a ready-made template is not used.
The surgeon enters beneath the skin and releases the SMAS layer and its ligaments. The tissues are repositioned upward and backward as a single unit. The skin is held in this position and tension is distributed in a controlled way. This step requires the most attention in the procedure.
Operating time varies depending on the number of areas treated and the person's anatomy. For example, if only the lower face contour is treated, the time may be longer when the neck and cheek are planned together. For this reason, the duration and necessary procedures should be planned individually for each patient.
In the first days after surgery, swelling and bruising may be seen. Recovery is followed through check-up examinations. Detailed follow-up information can be reached on the patient journey page: patient journey.
What is the difference from a classic facelift?
A classic facelift mostly produces results by pulling the skin. A deep plane facelift repositions the supporting tissue beneath the skin. This difference stands out in terms of how long the results last and how natural they look.
A deep plane facelift does not change skin quality. It has no direct effect on spots, fine lines or pore structure. Other treatments may be needed for these concerns.
It is stated that, compared with traditional methods, because it focuses on deeper tissues, the results are more lasting and natural. The reason is that the source of sagging is directly treated. A structural correction is targeted rather than superficial tension.
| Feature | Classic facelift | Deep plane facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Skin surface | SMAS and underlying supporting tissue |
| Approach | Pulling the skin | Releasing and repositioning the tissues |
| Skin quality | Not directly affected | Not changed, separate treatment may be needed |
| Durability of result | More limited | Stated to be more lasting |
Which method is suitable is determined during the examination. The detailed medical information form of the clinic can be reached here.
Who is a suitable candidate for a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a procedure performed by entering beneath the superficial musculo-aponeurotic layer. It works on the supporting layer of the face rather than a superficial facelift. It aims to correct sagging in the cheek, jawline and neck by repositioning the underlying supporting tissue rather than pulling the skin.
It is a surgical procedure. It is performed by going into the anatomical plane beneath the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system and the platysma muscle of the neck. Therefore it requires good knowledge of the tissues and nerve structures beneath the skin. The clinic plans this procedure after the examination, according to the person's tissue structure and expectations.
Skin quality does not change with this procedure. It repositions displaced tissue, but features of the skin surface such as spots, fine lines and pore structure remain the same. A separate treatment may be needed for these concerns.
For example, a person with only a sagging jawline and a person with clear laxity in the cheek too are not treated with the same plan. In the first, the chin area may take priority; in the second, the midface and cheek may. The area and method of treatment are not the same for everyone; which area will be treated is determined during the examination. For detailed information you can see the Deep Plane Facelift page.
How does the process proceed before and after surgery?
Before surgery, the structure of the face and neck is evaluated through an examination. Smoking, some medication use, clotting status and similar topics are discussed in the preliminary consultation. This preparation is important so that the procedure is performed safely and as planned.
Some swelling and bruising around the face is normal after surgery. In the first few days, keep your head elevated, you may apply cold compresses, and attend your follow-up appointments regularly. The medications to be used and points to watch out for will be explained separately after the procedure.
Sutures and dressings are removed under the supervision of your physician. The time to return to daily activities varies from person to person; you will be advised to avoid heavy physical exertion for a while. It takes a few weeks for facial expression and tissues to settle.
Monitoring of results is carried out together with follow-up examinations. For details of each stage of the process, you may visit the Patient Journey page.
Frequently asked questions
Is deep plane facelift painful?
Since the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, you will not feel pain during surgery. Swelling, tightness and tenderness may occur after surgery. The pain relievers to be used during this period are determined by your physician.
How long do the results last?
The results of deep plane facelift are expected to last longer than those of classic methods. However, the duration varies depending on age, skin structure and daily habits. A precise timeframe is evaluated individually during your examination.
Is general anesthesia required?
Yes. Deep plane facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a fully equipped operating room. The anesthesia method is determined together with the anesthesiologist according to the patient's health condition.
