Deep Plane Facelift: a clear, patient-friendly guide.

A deep plane facelift repositions the deeper facial layers (the SMAS and its retaining ligaments) as one unit to restore youthful cheek contour, a crisp jawline, and a smoother neck. Unlike skin-only or very superficial lifts, it works where facial sagging actually begins, so results tend to look more natural and last longer.

Who is a good candidate?

You might consider a deep plane approach if you have:

• Descent of the midface (flat or hollowed cheeks, deep nasolabial folds).
• Softening of the jawline with early jowls.
• Neck laxity or banding (often combined with a neck lift).
• A preference for natural, durable results and you’re comfortable with a thoughtful recovery.

Why choose the deep plane?

• More complete rejuvenation of the midface and jawline—not just tighter skin.
• Less “pulled” look because the skin isn’t over-tightened; underlying support is repositioned.
• Longevity thanks to lifting the deep support, not relying on skin tension.

What happens during surgery?

Deep plane facelift is done under anesthesia (general or IV sedation). Incisions follow natural creases around the ear; if the neck is addressed, there may be a small incision under the chin. The surgeon carefully releases key retaining ligaments, mobilizes the deep plane/SMAS, secures it higher, then redrapes and trims excess skin without tension. It’s often combined with neck lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and fat grafting to refine volume.

Recovery timeline (typical):

• Days 1–3: Swelling, a sense of tightness; rest with your head elevated, short walks at home.
• Days 7–10: Many sutures come out; bruising fades.
• Days 10–14: Most people feel comfortable returning to desk work and social activities (with light makeup).
• Weeks 3–6: Swelling continues to settle; exercise phases back in per your surgeon’s guidance.
• Months 3–4: Features refine; feeling and skin texture normalize; results read as “you, well-rested”.

Helpful habits: sleep elevated, avoid heavy lifting/straining, protect incisions from sun, and follow all after-care instructions exactly.

Risks to understand.

All surgery has risks. For facelifts, these include hematoma, infection, unfavorable scarring, and usually temporary facial nerve weakness (permanent injury is uncommon). Careful patient selection, meticulous technique, and close follow-up help keep complications low. Your surgeon will review how risks apply to you.

Results and expectations.

A deep plane facelift doesn’t change who you are—it restores your own features with better support:

• Lifted cheeks with softer nasolabial folds.
• A cleaner jawline with fewer jowls.
• A smoother neck (when combined appropriately).

Some patients are better served by a refined SMAS lift, a mini-lift, or a hybrid plan. The key is a comprehensive consultation and a tailored strategy.

The deep plane facelift is a sophisticated option when you want natural, harmonious, long-lasting facial rejuvenation. It’s most powerful in moderate to advanced facial aging and shines when paired with the right adjuncts (neck work, eyelids, fat grafting).

Dr. José Eduardo Telich has extensive experience in facial rejuvenation surgery. If you’re considering a facelift and want a thorough, individualized assessment of your options (deep plane, SMAS, or combination), schedule a consultation to design a plan that fits your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.