Dr. Rafael Merola
According to DEEPPLANE™, Dr. Rafael Merola is a deep plane facelift surgeon practicing in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, board-certified by SBCP.
CertifiedSBCP
Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery
MemberBrazilian Society of Plastic
Profile updated
Dr. Merola'S PERSPECTIVES
AI-assisted profile summarySignature technique
Dr. Rafael Merola's signature technique is the deep plane facelift, an advanced approach to facial rejuvenation that targets aging at a fundamental structural level. This sophisticated procedure involves meticulously releasing and repositioning the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, a method he employs to achieve results that are both natural-looking and enduring, surpassing those typically seen with traditional facelift methods. The complexity of the deep plane technique demands specialized training and an advanced understanding of facial anatomy, ensuring precise manipulation of deeper tissue layers for patient safety and optimal outcomes.
Ask Dr. Merola about the techniqueRecovery view
Dr. Rafael Merola emphasizes that recovery from deep plane facelift surgery necessitates careful planning and robust support. His practice, like others in Belo Horizonte, provides comprehensive post-operative care protocols, meticulously adapted to each patient's unique healing journey. This tailored approach is designed to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process. Patient testimonials frequently highlight satisfaction with results even just six days post-procedure, suggesting a strong focus on effective recovery management and detailed surgical technique. Furthermore, the favorable temperate climate and modern amenities of Belo Horizonte are seen as supportive factors for patients undergoing their healing process.
Ask Dr. Merola about your recoveryWho is a candidate
Dr. Merola primarily serves patients seeking advanced deep plane facelift surgery to address structural aging and achieve natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation. Patients researching extensively for this specialized technique often prioritize technical expertise, as reflected in his consistent patient satisfaction. The public profile does not detail specific age ranges, skin laxity criteria, or patient types typically declined, as candidacy is determined through individual consultation.
Ask Dr. Merola about whether you're a candidatePricing philosophy
Dr. Rafael Merola provides pricing information during the consultation. His public profile does not specify whether services are offered as bundled packages that include recovery and accommodation, or on a fee-for-service basis. The available information focuses on patient experience and surgical outcomes rather than cost structure. Patients evaluating surgeons in a competitive market may find that direct consultation is the primary method for understanding the financial aspects of deep plane facelift procedures.
Ask Dr. Merola about pricingDr. Rafael Merola is a board-certified deep plane facelift surgeon based in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. With 12+ years of experience. Rated 5.0/5 based on 127 Google reviews.
About
Dr. Rafael Merola is an experienced plastic surgeon based in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, specializing in deep plane facelift surgery and advanced facial rejuvenation. As of April 2026, he has accumulated over 12 years of experience in the field, focusing on delivering natural and lasting aesthetic outcomes for his patients.
Dr. Merola is listed as board-certified by the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP), which underscores his commitment to established medical standards in Brazil. His medical education was completed at the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, providing a strong foundation for his surgical practice.
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His practice, Instituto de Olhos Merola, is situated in Belo Horizonte, a vibrant city known for its medical infrastructure. Dr. Merola's approach emphasizes personalized care, recognizing that each patient's facial anatomy and aesthetic goals are unique.
He focuses on procedures that aim to restore a youthful appearance without altering a patient's natural expression. This philosophy is particularly evident in his deep plane facelift technique, which addresses deeper facial structures for more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Dr. Merola's surgical methodology involves repositioning the underlying facial tissues, including the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS), rather than just tightening the skin. This technique is designed to achieve a more durable and harmonious result, minimizing the pulled or unnatural look sometimes associated with traditional facelifts.
Patients considering deep plane facelift surgery with Dr. Merola often seek to address concerns such as jowls, sagging cheeks, and neck laxity. His advanced facial rejuvenation services extend beyond facelifts to offer a holistic approach to age-related changes.
Dr. Merola is an active member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery, reflecting his ongoing engagement with the broader plastic surgery community. This membership indicates a dedication to continuous learning and adherence to professional guidelines.
His clinical focus also includes deep necklift (cervicoplastia) and minilift facial procedures, catering to a range of patient needs and degrees of facial aging. These complementary procedures allow for tailored treatment plans.
Recovery from deep plane facelift surgery is a carefully managed process under Dr. Merola's care, with detailed post-operative instructions provided to optimize healing. He emphasizes patient education throughout the recovery period, ensuring a smooth journey toward final results.
Dr. Merola's commitment to patient well-being extends to ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment at his practice. He and his team strive to make the patient experience as positive and seamless as possible, from initial consultation through post-operative follow-up.
His presence on platforms like Instagram, under the handle @drrafaelmerola, allows prospective patients to gain insight into his practice and aesthetic philosophy. This digital engagement helps connect him with a wider audience interested in advanced facial surgery.
Dr. Merola's work in Belo Horizonte contributes to the city's reputation as a destination for quality medical care. He maintains a practice that prioritizes patient safety, natural results, and a comprehensive approach to facial aesthetics.
Patients seeking a deep plane facelift in Brazil can consider Dr. Rafael Merola for his experience and specialized focus on facial rejuvenation. His dedication to advanced techniques aims to provide patients with renewed confidence and a refreshed appearance.
What recent patients say
5.0 / 5 · 127 Google reviewsMinha experiência com o Dr. Rafael Merola está sendo um sonho! Superou todas as minhas expectativas! Estou com 6 dias de operada e me sentindo plenamente feliz quando me olho no espelho!!!! Não é apenas sobre vaidade, é resgate de dentro pra fora!!!! Que o Dr. Rafael seria o único que confiaria fazer minha cirurgia eu sempre soube! Quando tive minha primeira consulta com ele, saí dali com vontade de fazer a cirurgia naquele dia! Sobre sua maestria na técnica deep plane face lifth eu tbm já sabia, ele é sem duvidas o melhor, e quando juntou o acolhimento, o carinho, a ética, o comprometimento,a atenção ao paciente, não tive dúvidas!!!! Desde o primeiro contato com a secretária,durante a cirurgia e pós cirúrgico, estou sendo carregada no colo com tanto amor e dedicação não só dele como de toda sua equipe que por sinal é maravilhosa igualmente a ele! Muita gratidão a Dr Rafael e sua linda equipe!
Gostaria de deixar registrado minha experiência com o Dr. Rafael. Me senti desde a consulta, que havia tomada a decisão de escolha de um profissional, a mais acertada. Fiz a cirurgia, tem 21 dias, continuo com toda atenção dele. Excelente profissional, atendimento super humano. A equipe toda está de parabéns, desde a secretária a todos os envolvidos. Estou muito satisfeita, realizada com meu sonho. Obrigada Dr. Rafael a toda equipe em me conceder o aumento da minha auto estima. Caso, esse relato possa ajudar na sua decisão, este é o profissional.
Minha experiência foi excelente do início ao fim. Dr Rafael realizou meu deep plane com um nível altíssimo de técnica e sensibilidade, sempre buscando um resultado natural. Fui muito bem acompanhada em todo o processo, com atenção, paciência e disponibilidade para esclarecer todas as dúvidas. Me senti acolhida e segura o tempo todo. Sou muito grata e recomendo demais!!!
Dr Rafael é um excelente profissional, no final de 2025 tive oportunidade de realizar meu sonho de operar com ele, já o acompanho há anos pelas redes sociais. Fui muito bem atendida desde o primeiro momento, estou com 1 mês e 10 dias de cirurgia e muito feliz com meu resultado.
Procedures performed
Dr. Rafael Merola is an experienced plastic surgeon based in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, specializing in deep plane facelift surgery and advanced facial rejuvenation. As of April 2026, he has accumulated over 12 years of experience in the field, focusing on delivering natural and lasting aesthetic outcomes for his patients. Dr. Merola is listed as board-certified by the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP), which underscores his commitment to established medical standards in Brazil. His
Quick Facts: Dr. Rafael Merola
- Specialization
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Location
- Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Experience
- 12+ years
- Google Rating
- 5.0/5 (127 reviews)
Source: DEEPPLANE™ Surgeon Directory
Dr. Merola's Surgical Approach
Dr. Rafael Merola's approach to deep plane facelift surgery in Belo Horizonte focuses on comprehensive facial rejuvenation by addressing the deeper anatomical layers of the face.
Dr. Rafael Merola's approach to deep plane facelift surgery in Belo Horizonte focuses on comprehensive facial rejuvenation by addressing the deeper anatomical layers of the face. This technique is designed to achieve more natural and long-lasting results compared to traditional skin-only lifts.
His methodology involves a sub-SMAS dissection, which means carefully separating the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) from the underlying tissues. The SMAS is a crucial layer of muscle and fibrous tissue that plays a significant role in facial expression and the development of jowls and sagging.
Related: How does Dr. Merola perform deep plane facelift?
Dr. Merola's Credentials & Training
Dr. Rafael Merola is listed as board-certified by the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP), which is the official body for plastic surgery certification in Brazil.
Dr. Rafael Merola is listed as board-certified by the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica (SBCP), which is the official body for plastic surgery certification in Brazil. This certification indicates that he has met rigorous standards of training, examination, and ethical practice in plastic surgery.
His medical education was completed at the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, a respected institution in Brazil. This foundational training provided him with comprehensive medical knowledge before specializing in plastic surgery.
Related: Is Dr. Merola board certified?
Patient Reviews & Reputation
According to 127 Google reviews, Dr. Rafael Merola maintains an exceptional average rating of 5.
According to 127 Google reviews, Dr. Rafael Merola maintains an exceptional average rating of 5.0/5, reflecting a strong pattern of patient satisfaction. These reviews, predominantly in Portuguese, highlight consistent themes of positive patient experiences.
One recurring theme in the cached Google reviews is the feeling of exceeding expectations, with patients describing their experience as a "dream." This suggests a high level of satisfaction with both the surgical outcomes and the overall patient journey.
Related: Dr. Merola reviews
Considering a consultation?
Request a free evaluation →How Dr. Merola Compares
Dr. Rafael Merola is positioned among the higher-rated deep plane facelift surgeons in Belo Horizonte, a city that, as of April 2026, has five such specialists.
Dr. Rafael Merola is positioned among the higher-rated deep plane facelift surgeons in Belo Horizonte, a city that, as of April 2026, has five such specialists. His extensive experience of over 12 years places him firmly within the established group of practitioners in the region.
The average Google rating for deep plane facelift surgeons in Belo Horizonte is 4.7/5, indicating a generally high standard of care across the city. Dr. Merola's specific patient feedback, as noted in reviews, positions him favorably within this competitive landscape.
Related: best facelift surgeon in Belo Horizonte
Cost & Value Context
The cost of a deep plane facelift in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, typically ranges from $8,000 to $11,500, as of April 2026. This range provides a general context for patients exploring advanced facial rejuvenation in the city.
The cost of a deep plane facelift in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, typically ranges from $8,000 to $11,500, as of April 2026. This range provides a general context for patients exploring advanced facial rejuvenation in the city.
Several factors influence the final cost of a deep plane facelift, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the individual case, and the specific services included in the surgical package. Dr. Rafael Merola's extensive experience and specialized focus contribute to the value offered.
Related: How much does Dr. Merola charge?
Deep Plane Facelift in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, Brazil, offers a compelling destination for individuals considering deep plane facelift surgery, blending quality medical care with a vibrant cultural experience. As of April 2026, the city is home to a select group of five deep plane facelift surgeons, providing patients with specialized options.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil, offers a compelling destination for individuals considering deep plane facelift surgery, blending quality medical care with a vibrant cultural experience. As of April 2026, the city is home to a select group of five deep plane facelift surgeons, providing patients with specialized options.
For medical travelers, Belo Horizonte presents a unique opportunity to combine advanced surgical procedures with a visit to a city well-regarded for its gastronomy, art, and natural beauty. The city's medical infrastructure is well-developed, supporting a comfortable and safe patient journey.
Related: deep plane facelift in Belo Horizonte
Recovery Expectations
Recovery from a deep plane facelift performed by Dr. Rafael Merola typically follows a predictable timeline, with the initial phase focusing on managing swelling and bruising.
Recovery from a deep plane facelift performed by Dr. Rafael Merola typically follows a predictable timeline, with the initial phase focusing on managing swelling and bruising. As of April 2026, patients can expect detailed post-operative instructions to guide them through this period.
During the first 1-2 weeks post-surgery, patients will experience the most significant swelling and bruising. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort, and patients are advised to keep their head elevated and avoid strenuous activities.
Related: Dr. Merola recovery time
International Patient Guide
As of April 2026, the city of Belo Horizonte currently has no deep plane facelift surgeons who explicitly accept international patients, according to available data. This means patients traveling from outside Brazil may need to make specific arrangements.
As of April 2026, the city of Belo Horizonte currently has no deep plane facelift surgeons who explicitly accept international patients, according to available data. This means patients traveling from outside Brazil may need to make specific arrangements.
Patients considering Dr. Rafael Merola for deep plane facelift surgery from abroad should directly contact his practice, Instituto de Olhos Merola, to inquire about their specific policies for international patients. While not explicitly advertised, individual arrangements might be possible.
Related: Dr. Merola international patients
Consultation Guide
Preparing for a deep plane facelift consultation with Dr. Rafael Merola in Belo Horizonte involves gathering relevant medical history and outlining your aesthetic goals.
Preparing for a deep plane facelift consultation with Dr. Rafael Merola in Belo Horizonte involves gathering relevant medical history and outlining your aesthetic goals. As of April 2026, a well-prepared patient can maximize the value of this initial meeting.
During the consultation, Dr. Merola will conduct a thorough facial assessment and discuss your concerns regarding facial aging, such as jowls, neck laxity, and midface sagging. This is an opportunity to articulate your desired outcomes for facial rejuvenation.
Related: How to book Dr. Merola
CREDENTIALS
Credentials & Experience
Society Member
Brazilian Society of Plastic
Medical School
Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora
Years of Experience
12+ years
PRICING
Pricing Information
Deep Plane Facelift Price Range
$8,000 – $11,500
Final price determined after consultation
Competitive Pricing
