For longer-lasting results and a more intensive approach, a deep plane facelift works beneath the skin to adjust the deeper layers of the face.
Unlike other facelift techniques that mainly tighten the skin or reposition the more superficial layers, a deep plane facelift involves releasing and repositioning the muscle and connective tissue.
As with any procedure, there are various aspects to consider, including how it’s performed, what the recovery process is like, and what patients can expect in terms of healing.
Why is it called a “deep plane” facelift?
The term “deep plane” refers to the layer beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculo Aponeurotic System), which is a fibrous layer that supports both the skin and deeper facial structures.
In a traditional facelift (rhytidectomy/meloplasty), the SMAS layer is tightened, but in a deep plane facelift, the attachments between the SMAS and the deeper layers are released. The more deeply-targeted approach allows for a more extensive repositioning of the underlying tissues, without placing added tension on the skin.
How is a deep plane facelift performed?
A deep plane facelift is performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours to perform. The length of the procedure depends on various factors, including whether additional procedures are being performed at the same time.
Since the technique involves working on the deeper layers of the face, the surgical approach needs to be planned based on individual anatomy and the specific focus areas that will be adjusted. Like a standard facelift, the procedure can include the removal of excess skin and fat, if necessary.
Incisions are most often placed at the hairline, around the natural contour of the face. To access the deep plane, the overlying skin is lifted by about 3cm, before excess skin is removed and the deeper tissues are adjusted. The overlying skin is then repositioned and and sutured back in place, without any added tension.
The deep plane technique essentially focuses on the skin, tissue and SMAS layer as a single or composite unit, which can improve the result, and reduce the level of swelling and bruising.
What is the recovery process like after a deep plane facelift?
While the deep plane approach can reduce the amount of swelling and bruising when compared to a standard facelift, since the procedure is still extensive and works on the deeper layers of the face, recovery will still involve some downtime.
In the first few days, resting with the head elevated can help manage swelling, but gentle movement, such as short walks around the house, is encouraged to promote circulation. Most patients will typically need to take one to two weeks off work, and wait about six weeks to resume their normal daily routine, including exercise.
To encourage swelling to subside and prevent complications like haematoma formation, you’ll typically need to wear a compression garment for about six weeks. As for the normal level of discomfort that can be experienced, you will typically be able to take prescribed pain medication, and apply a cold compress to help soothe the area.
An important step of the recovery process will also be to quit smoking. Smoking can interfere with your body’s healing process, which can not only slow down the speed of your healing after a facelift, but can also raise the risk of encountering complications like infection. You can expect to be advised to quit for several weeks before your procedure to prepare, and after your procedure to support your body’s recovery.
To monitor the progress of your healing, you’ll have some follow-up appointments scheduled with your surgeon. These check-ups can allow for any adjustments to be made to your recovery instructions, any possible issues to be identified early – and helpful treatments like LED Light Therapy to be performed.
Post-operative LED Light Therapy after a deep plane facelift: How can it help?
After a facelift, our team may highly recommend LED Light Therapy, as it can help to decrease your downtime and support your healing process.
These 13-minute, convenient, comfortable and non-invasive treatments can be performed during your follow-up appointments.
The treatment works by using specialised LED light to encourage the tissues to heal. When it is performed after surgery, it has been proven to significantly reduce swelling and bruising, minimise the visibility of scarring, and generally help to support overall healing.
Healing and results in the longer term after a deep plane facelift
The deeper adjustments that are made during a deep plane facelift will take some time to heal, so while some changes will be visible as swelling subsides, the full results will typically continue to develop over the several months after your procedure.
The tissues will need time to fully integrate into their new position, which can sometimes mean that subtle changes can continue to show for up to a year after surgery.
Since the deep plane technique involves repositioning the deeper structures rather than simply pulling the skin, the effects tend to last longer compared to more superficially-focused facelift techniques.
While the natural ageing process will still make changes to the facial tissues over time, adopting a good skincare routine and protecting your skin from UV rays can help to maintain your facelift results.
Find out if you are a suitable candidate for a deep plane facelift with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Laniewski
Meeting with a plastic surgeon will provide you with more important and helpful things to know about the deep plane facelift procedure – including whether or not it may be the right procedure for you.
Dr Peter Laniewski is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, who offers a variety of surgical procedures using refined techniques and advanced technologies.
He has thorough training and experience, including advanced surgical training, fellowships in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, an international fellowship at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, and training with plastic surgeons at the respected Harley Street in London.
To learn more about the deep plane facelift and discuss the finer details of what your personalised procedure process may involve, please get in touch with our team to book your consultation in Sydney.
