Dr. Tyler McElwee, FACS

Dr. McElwee performs the deep plane facelift by releasing and repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face rather than tightening skin alone. This distinction is central to how the technique produces natural, lasting rejuvenation.

The foundation of the procedure is the SMAS — the superficial muscular aponeurotic system — a supportive sheet of tissue that lies between the skin and the facial muscles. In a deep plane approach, this layer is not simply folded or stitched; it is surgically released.

Dr. McElwee is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS), a certification that reflects specialized training in the structures of the face, head, and neck.

He has also reported earning a second board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This dual credentialing is meaningful for deep plane facelift surgery, where a detailed command of facial anatomy directly affects safety and outcome.

According to 44 Google reviews, Dr. McElwee holds a 5.0 out of 5 rating, a consistently strong score across the feedback gathered for his practice.

The available reviews are written in English, reflecting a primarily domestic patient base. Among the cached samples, several describe comprehensive facial procedures performed together — deep plane facelift, deep plane neck lift, brow lift, lip lift, and CO2 laser resurfacing — pointing to patients who chose full facial rejuvenation.

Dr. McElwee ranks among the higher-rated deep plane facelift surgeons in Portland's competitive market. Against a local field of seven surgeons in this specialty, his profile stands out for its concentrated focus on facial and neck rejuvenation.

Portland surgeons in this area carry a high average experience level, and the local field maintains a strong average rating overall. Within that context, Dr. McElwee's more than 12 years of practice places him as an established rather than early-career surgeon, while his dual board focus on facial procedures adds further definition.

The cost of a deep plane facelift in Portland reflects surgeon experience, facility standards, anesthesia, and the scope of procedures combined in a single operation. Across the local market, prices for facial rejuvenation range widely, from roughly $8,000 at the lower end to approximately $77,500 for the most comprehensive multi-procedure surgical plans.

This broad range is typical of a mature market. A standalone deep plane facelift generally sits toward the lower and middle portion of that spectrum, while adding a neck lift, brow lift, lip lift, or CO2 laser resurfacing increases both surgical time and total cost.

Portland offers a considered, unhurried setting for patients pursuing a deep plane facelift. The city is known for its walkable neighborhoods, tree-lined districts, and calm pace — qualities that align well with the privacy many facial surgery patients prefer during recovery.

The local market for facial rejuvenation is established. Portland is home to seven deep plane facelift surgeons, a group with substantial collective experience, which gives prospective patients a genuine basis for comparison and consultation.

Recovery from a deep plane facelift with Dr. McElwee typically unfolds over several months, with the most visible changes occurring in the first few weeks. Understanding this timeline helps patients plan realistically.

During the first one to two weeks, swelling and bruising are most pronounced. Patients generally rest, keep the head elevated, and limit activity, and many feel comfortable being seen in public toward the end of this period as bruising begins to fade.

International patients considering Dr. McElwee in Portland should begin with a remote consultation to establish candidacy before committing to travel. Early planning is essential for a smooth surgical experience across borders.

Visitors from abroad should confirm entry requirements for the United States well in advance, as visa and documentation timelines can affect scheduling. Coordinating these steps early prevents delays close to a planned surgery date.

A consultation with Dr. McElwee typically begins with a discussion of your goals, medical history, and the specific pattern of facial aging you wish to address. This conversation shapes whether a deep plane facelift, alone or combined with other procedures, is the right path.

Prepare by noting your priorities, any prior surgeries, and questions you want answered. Useful questions include how the deep plane technique suits your anatomy, what recovery will realistically involve, which complementary procedures may help, and what results are achievable.