Deep Plane Facelift Glossary

American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The certifying board for surgeons specializing in facial plastic surgery.

American Board of Plastic Surgery. The certifying board for plastic surgeons who may perform facial procedures among other plastic surgery procedures.

Eyelid surgery to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. Often combined with facelift procedures for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

A credential earned by physicians who complete additional training and pass rigorous examinations in their specialty. For facial plastic surgery, look for certification from ABFPRS or ABPS.

An injectable treatment that temporarily relaxes facial muscles to reduce wrinkles. Often used to complement surgical results.

A surgical procedure to raise the eyebrows and reduce forehead wrinkles. Can be performed endoscopically or through traditional incisions.

A skin treatment using chemical solutions to remove damaged outer layers of skin, revealing smoother, younger-looking skin beneath.

A specialized bandage or garment worn after surgery to reduce swelling and support healing tissues. Typically worn for 1-2 weeks after a facelift.

An advanced facelift technique that releases and repositions the deeper layers of facial tissue (SMAS and facial ligaments) to achieve more natural, longer-lasting results. Unlike traditional facelifts, it addresses the underlying structural support of the face.

Injectable substances (such as hyaluronic acid) used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Can complement or delay the need for surgery.

The period of recovery after surgery during which patients may experience swelling, bruising, and limited activity. Deep plane facelift downtime is typically 2-3 weeks.

A variation of the deep plane technique that extends the dissection further to address the midface and nasolabial folds more comprehensively.

Fibrous structures that connect the facial skin to underlying bone and muscle. Key ligaments include the zygomatic, masseteric, and mandibular ligaments.

A medically induced state of unconsciousness used during surgery. Deep plane facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia.

A collection of blood outside blood vessels, which can occur as a complication after surgery. One of the most common complications of facelift surgery.

Sagging skin and fat along the jawline that creates a drooping appearance. One of the primary concerns addressed by facelift surgery.

A skin treatment using laser technology to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and address sun damage. Often combined with facelift surgery.

Medication that numbs a specific area of the body while the patient remains awake. May be used for minor procedures or in combination with sedation.

Vertical lines that extend from the corners of the mouth downward toward the chin. Named after marionette puppets, these lines can create a sad or aged appearance.

The area of the face between the lower eyelids and the upper lip, including the cheeks. Midface descent is a common sign of aging.

A less invasive facelift procedure with shorter incisions, typically addressing mild to moderate facial aging. Recovery time is shorter but results may be less dramatic than a full facelift.

The lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Also known as 'smile lines' or 'laugh lines.' Deep plane facelifts can significantly improve their appearance.

A surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the neck by tightening loose skin and muscles. Often performed in conjunction with a facelift.

A thin, sheet-like muscle that extends from the chest to the lower face. Laxity of the platysma contributes to neck banding and the 'turkey neck' appearance.

The process by which surgical scars heal and fade over time. Facelift scars typically take 6-12 months to fully mature and become less visible.

A collection of clear fluid that can accumulate under the skin after surgery. Usually resolves on its own or can be drained.

A layer of tissue that covers the deeper structures of the cheek and connects the facial muscles to the dermis. Manipulation of the SMAS is key to achieving natural facelift results.

Stitches used to close surgical incisions. May be absorbable (dissolve on their own) or non-absorbable (require removal).

A minimally invasive procedure using dissolvable threads to lift sagging skin. Results are temporary and less dramatic than surgical facelifts.