Deep Plane Facelift vs Regular Facelift: What is the Difference?

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, facelifts are among the most popular surgical options for those seeking to turn back the clock on aging. However, not all facelifts are the same. While the traditional facelift has been a staple in cosmetic surgery for decades, a newer, more advanced technique—the deep plane facelift—has emerged, offering a more comprehensive and long-lasting solution. If you’re considering a facelift, it’s important to understand the differences between these two procedures to determine which one best suits your needs. 

What is a Regular Facelift?

A traditional facelift, also known as a SMAS facelift (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System), is a cosmetic surgery that targets the skin and the tissue directly beneath it to tighten the face and reduce visible signs of aging. In a regular facelift, the surgeon makes incisions along the hairline and around the ears to lift the skin, remove excess skin, and smooth out sagging areas. The result is a more youthful appearance with reduced wrinkles and less sagging.

A regular facelift focuses primarily on lifting and tightening the skin, and although it may involve repositioning the superficial layers of muscle and tissue, it does not address the deeper structures of the face. The procedure is typically recommended for individuals experiencing mild to moderate signs of aging, such as sagging cheeks, jowls, and loose skin around the neck.

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift, on the other hand, is a more advanced surgical technique that goes beyond just tightening the skin. It involves lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of tissue, including the SMAS, muscles, and connective tissue beneath the skin. By addressing the underlying structures of the face, the deep plane facelift offers a more comprehensive, long-lasting rejuvenation.

During the procedure, the surgeon lifts and repositions the muscles and connective tissue, along with the skin, to create a more natural and youthful appearance. This technique allows for a more dramatic lift in areas like the jowls, neck, and midface, resulting in a smoother, tighter, and more youthful contour. The deep plane facelift also offers the benefit of lasting longer than a regular facelift, making it ideal for those seeking more permanent results.

Key Differences Between a Deep Plane Facelift and a Regular Facelift

1. Depth of the Procedure

The most significant difference between a deep plane facelift and a regular facelift is the depth at which the surgeon works.

• Regular Facelift: Primarily focuses on the skin and the superficial layers of muscle and tissue. The surgeon tightens and lifts the skin to reduce sagging, but the deeper structures of the face are not addressed.
• Deep Plane Facelift: Focuses on lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of tissue, including the muscles and connective tissues beneath the skin. This approach provides a more comprehensive lift, addressing multiple layers of the face and ensuring a more natural, long-lasting result.

2. Surgical Technique

In a regular facelift, the surgeon typically creates incisions along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin. The skin is then lifted, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned to smooth out wrinkles and tighten the face.

• Regular Facelift: The procedure primarily involves lifting the skin, with the option of addressing the superficial layers of muscle (SMAS). It’s less invasive and requires fewer incisions.
• Deep Plane Facelift: The surgeon makes similar incisions but works deeper into the facial tissues. The deep plane facelift involves releasing the SMAS layer and repositioning the deeper tissues and muscles, creating a more comprehensive lift. This allows for more dramatic results in areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and neck.

3. Recovery Time

Because the deep plane facelift is a more extensive procedure that targets the deeper layers of tissue, it generally requires a longer recovery time compared to a regular facelift.

• Regular Facelift: Recovery time typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks. Swelling and bruising subside relatively quickly, and patients can usually return to their normal activities within a few weeks.
• Deep Plane Facelift: Recovery time can be slightly longer, with most patients taking 2 to 3 weeks off from work and other activities. While the swelling and bruising may take longer to resolve, the results are often more lasting and natural-looking, making the recovery time worth it for many patients.

4. Results and Longevity

One of the major advantages of a deep plane facelift is its long-lasting results. Because it addresses the underlying muscle and tissue layers, the deep plane facelift offers a more permanent solution to sagging and facial aging. The results can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on individual factors such as age, skin quality, and lifestyle.

• Regular Facelift: While a traditional facelift provides a noticeable improvement in the appearance of sagging skin and wrinkles, the results tend to be less long-lasting. Typically, a regular facelift lasts between 5 and 10 years before further signs of aging begin to appear.
• Deep Plane Facelift: Due to its comprehensive approach, a deep plane facelift tends to have longer-lasting results. The lift achieved by repositioning the deeper tissues ensures that the improvements last longer, providing a youthful appearance for many years.

5. Risk of “Pulled” Appearance

In some cases, a traditional facelift may result in a “pulled” or overly tight appearance, especially if the skin is pulled too tightly. This is often a result of the procedure focusing primarily on the skin without addressing the deeper layers of tissue.

• Regular Facelift: If performed improperly, a traditional facelift may cause the skin to appear overly stretched or unnatural, which can detract from the results.
• Deep Plane Facelift: The deep plane facelift offers a more natural and subtle result by lifting the deeper layers of tissue. This helps to avoid the “pulled” look, giving the patient a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance that looks natural and refreshed.

6. Suitability for Different Age Groups

Both procedures can be beneficial, but they may be better suited for different age groups or those with specific concerns.

• Regular Facelift: A regular facelift is often recommended for individuals who have mild to moderate signs of aging, such as sagging cheeks, jowls, or loose skin around the neck. It is ideal for patients looking for a less invasive procedure and a more subtle improvement.
• Deep Plane Facelift: A deep plane facelift is recommended for patients who have more significant signs of aging, such as deep jowls, pronounced neck sagging, and hollow cheeks. It is also ideal for individuals seeking longer-lasting and more dramatic results.

Which Facelift is Right for You?

Deciding between a deep plane facelift and a regular facelift depends on your individual concerns, goals, and the extent of facial aging you’re experiencing. If you’re seeking more dramatic and long-lasting results with a natural look, the deep plane facelift might be the better option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a less invasive procedure with a quicker recovery, a regular facelift may be a more appropriate choice.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon to assess your unique needs and determine which procedure is best suited for you. Your surgeon will take into account factors such as your facial anatomy, the severity of aging, and your overall health to recommend the right approach for achieving the results you desire.

Both the deep plane facelift and the regular facelift offer significant benefits when it comes to facial rejuvenation, but they differ in technique, results, and recovery time. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive, natural, and long-lasting solution to facial aging, a deep plane facelift may be the right choice for you. For those who seek more subtle results with a quicker recovery, a regular facelift might be the ideal option. By working closely with a skilled surgeon like Dr. Deon, you can determine which procedure will best help you achieve your aesthetic goals and restore a youthful, refreshed appearance. Contact Dr. Deon today to schedule your consultation and learn more about this advanced facial rejuvenation procedure.