What Is A Deep Plane Face Lift? The Gold Standard in Lifting
INTRODUCTION
Deep plane facelift
Facial ageing is an inevitable part of life, marked by sagging skin and deepening wrinkles, both of which may be undesirable, but they’re also unavoidable.
For many, these changes can impact self-esteem, leading them to explore rejuvenation options. While cosmetic treatments like fillers and less invasive surgeries can provide temporary improvements, the deep plane facelift stands out as the gold standard in achieving long-lasting, natural-looking results.
But, what is a deep plane facelift, and what sets it apart from other facelifting techniques?
This procedure represents a transformative approach to facial rejuvenation, targeting not just the surface but the deeper structural layers of the face. It combines cutting-edge surgical precision with an understanding of facial anatomy to restore youthful contours without sacrificing a natural appearance.
Stick around while we explore the technique, its benefits and why it’s considered a breakthrough in the world of cosmetic surgery.
The Anatomy of Ageing
To understand the importance of the deep plane facelift, it’s helpful to know why our faces age.
As we grow older, our skin loses elasticity, collagen production decreases and, in the most basic sense, gravity takes its toll.
But it’s more than just what you see on the surface. Beneath the skin, fat pads shift downward, muscles weaken and ligaments loosen. These changes result in sagging cheeks, jowls deep nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth) and a less defined jawline.
Indeed, traditional facelift techniques often focus on tightening the skin, which can lead to an overstretched appearance if overdone. However, the deep plane facelift goes a few steps further, addressing the structural layers beneath the skin and delivering more comprehensive and natural results than any other solution.
So, What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
The deep plane facelift is a surgical technique designed to reposition the deeper layers of the face, specifically the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer. The SMAS is a connective tissue layer that lies beneath the skin and fat but above the facial muscles. It’s responsible for much of the face’s contour and shape even though you probably didn’t even know it was there.
By releasing specific anchor points and repositioning this layer, the deep plane facelift lifts and recontours the face in a way that looks natural and youthful.
Unlike traditional facelifts, which primarily pull the skin, the deep plane facelift works within the natural anatomical planes of the face. This avoids the tell-tale “pulled” look and ensures that the results are both durable and natural looking, especially in the long run.
How a Deep Plane Facelift Differs From Traditional Facelifts
In a traditional facelift (the one we’re always hearing about), the surgeon separates the skin from the underlying tissue and tightens it, often removing excess skin too.
While this certainly can smooth out wrinkles and tighten sagging areas, it doesn’t address the root cause of ageing in the deeper tissues. As a result, the improvements may not last as long, and the appearance can sometimes seem artificial.
The deep plane facelift, on the other hand, works on the SMAS layer and even deeper structures, which allows for more effective lifting of the midface, jawline and neck.
By releasing the tethering points of the SMAS layer, the surgeon allows the tissue to move naturally to its youthful position.
Because the skin isn’t overly pulled, the result looks softer and more natural. And with the deeper tissues repositioned, the results last significantly longer – often up to a decade or more.
The Surgical Process
The deep plane facelift is a meticulous and technically advanced procedure, typically performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation.
The surgeon makes incisions around the ears, often extending into the hairline to minimise visible scarring. These incisions are carefully placed to blend seamlessly with natural creases.
Once the skin is lifted, the surgeon works within the deep plane, releasing key ligaments and tension points in the SMAS layer.
The underlying tissues, including the SMAS, are lifted and repositioned to their youthful state. This may involve lifting the cheeks, smoothing nasolabial folds, and redefining the jawline.
Excess skin is removed, and the incisions are closed with fine stiches.
The entire procedure typically takes several hours, depending on the extent of the lift and any additional procedures, such as a neck lift or fat grafting, performed simultaneously.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from a deep plane facelift is typically more involved than less invasive procedures, but the results are well worth the downtime, and as alwyas, they tend to be a little different from one person to the next.
Patients can expect swelling and bruising for the first two weeks, with most returning to normal activities within two to three weeks. Complete healing and the final results may take several months as the tissues settle.
The results of a deep plane facelift are remarkable, providing a natural and youthful appearance that can last 10-15 years or more. Patients often report looking not only younger but also more refreshed and well-rested.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
The deep plane facelift is ideal for individuals in their 40s to 60s who are experiencing significant signs of facial ageing, such as sagging cheeks, jowls and deep wrinkles. It’s particularly suited for those who want long-lasting, natural-looking results and are willing to undergo surgery to achieve them.
That said, it’s not suitable for everyone. Factors such as overall health, skin elasticity and facial anatomy will determine whether you’re a good candidate. Consulting with an experienced facial plastic surgeon is essential to ensure the procedure aligns with your goals and expectations.
Why Is It Called the Gold Standard?
The deep plane facelift has earned its reputation as the gold standard in facial lifting because it delivers results that are both comprehensive and natural. By addressing the underlying causes of ageing, it provides a level of rejuvenation that is unmatched by other techniques. Patients often say that they look like a younger version of themselves rather than someone who has had “work done.”
Additionally, because the procedure doesn’t rely solely on tightening the skin, the results age gracefully over time. This makes it a more worthwhile investment for those seeking lasting rejuvenation.
Innovations in Deep Plane Facelifting
As surgical techniques continue to evolve, the deep plane facelift has become even more refined. Many surgeons now combine it with complementary procedures, such as fat grafting, laser resurfacing and neck lifting.
Fat grafting restores lost volume to areas like the cheeks and temples, enhancing the overall result.
Laser resurfacing improves skin texture and reduces fine lines, complementing the structural changes achieved by the lift.
Neck lifting addresses sagging and banding in the neck for a cohesive rejuvenation.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
The success of a deep plane facelift depends heavily on the skill and experience of the surgeon. It’s a complex procedure that requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy and advanced surgical expertise.
At ivogwanmesia.com, Dr. Ivo Gwanmesia is renowned for his artistry and precision in facial plastic surgery. His personalised approach ensures that each patient’s unique features and goals are respected, resulting in great outcomes that look natural.
Final Thoughts Deep Plan Facelifts
So, what is a deep plane facelift? It’s a revolutionary approach to facial rejuvenation that offers unmatched results. By lifting and repositioning the deeper tissues, this procedure restores youthful contours, smooths wrinkles and it completely redefines the face in a way that looks entirely natural.
If you’re considering facial rejuvenation, a deep plane facelift could be the transformative solution you’re looking for. Schedule a consultation with a trusted expert like Dr. Gwanmesia to explore how this gold-standard procedure can help you look and feel your best.
