How Deep Plane Facelifts Are Performed: Deep plane facelift is performed by making incisions around the ears, releasing facial ligaments beneath the SMAS layer, repositioning deep tissues vertically, and redraping skin without tension. The procedure typically takes 4-6 hours under general anesthesia.

— DeepPlane.com Medical Advisory Board

How Are Facelifts Performed: Quick Facts

Duration
4-6 hours typical
Anesthesia
General or sedation
Incisions
Hairline to behind ear
Technique
SMAS release and lift
Closure
Layered suturing
Hospital Stay
Usually outpatient

Source: Clinical Studies & The Aesthetic Society

How Are Deep Plane Facelifts Performed

Medically reviewed by Medical Advisory BoardWritten by DeepPlane Editorial TeamUpdated on January 20268 min read

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the step-by-step surgical process of a deep plane facelift demystifies the procedure and helps you prepare mentally and physically for your surgery day.

  • Surgery typically takes 4-6 hours under general anesthesia
  • Incisions are carefully placed along natural skin creases
  • The deep plane dissection is what distinguishes this from other lifts

Step-by-step explanation of how deep plane facelift surgery is performed.

$15K-50K
Average Cost
4-6 hrs
Surgery Time
10-15 yrs
Results Last
2-3 wks
Recovery

What Is How Are Deep Plane Facelifts Performed?

This advanced facial rejuvenation technique addresses the deeper layers of facial tissue, providing more natural and longer-lasting results compared to traditional methods. The procedure repositions the SMAS layer along with the overlying skin, creating a more comprehensive lift without the pulled or windswept appearance.

Board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in this technique have extensive training in facial anatomy and can achieve results that look natural while addressing significant signs of aging including jowls, nasolabial folds, and neck laxity.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost varies significantly based on several factors:

  • Surgeon Experience: Board-certified specialists typically charge $20,000-$50,000
  • Geographic Location: Major cities like NYC and LA have higher costs
  • Facility Fees: Hospital vs. accredited surgical center
  • Anesthesia: General vs. local with sedation

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for this procedure typically share these characteristics:

Good Candidates

  • • Patients who want to understand the surgical process before committing
  • • Those with moderate to severe facial aging seeking long-term correction
  • • Non-smokers in good general health with realistic expectations
  • • Patients willing to follow pre- and post-operative instructions carefully

May Not Be Suitable

  • • Those seeking non-surgical alternatives (consider fillers or threads first)
  • • Patients with active infections or skin conditions near incision sites
  • • Those with unmanaged chronic conditions affecting wound healing
  • • Patients who cannot arrange adequate post-operative care and transportation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is how are s performed?

Deep plane facelift is performed by creating an incision along the hairline and around the ear, then dissecting beneath the SMAS layer to release retaining ligaments. The freed tissue complex is repositioned as a unit, and excess skin is removed. The procedure takes 3-6 hours under general anesthesia.

How much does how are deep plane facelifts performed cost?

Deep plane facelift costs $20,000-$50,000 depending on surgeon expertise, geographic location, and the extent of correction needed. This includes surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-operative care.

Who is a good candidate for how are deep plane facelifts performed?

Good candidates are healthy adults with moderate to severe facial aging, including jowls, neck laxity, and midface descent. Non-smokers with realistic expectations and adequate skin elasticity achieve the best results.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: All facelifts are performed the same way

Fact: Techniques vary dramatically from skin-only lifts to deep plane. The depth of dissection and tissue handling significantly affects results.

Myth: Deep plane requires larger incisions

Fact: Deep plane uses similar incision patterns to other facelifts. The difference is in the depth of dissection, not incision size.

Myth: The procedure is extremely painful

Fact: Most patients report less pain than expected. Modern techniques and pain management make recovery comfortable for most patients.

Key Takeaways

Research thoroughly before making decisions

Consult with multiple board-certified surgeons

Review before and after photos carefully

Understand all costs and recovery requirements