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 Editorial 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 Evidence & Medical Reviews
How Are Deep Plane Facelifts Performed
Quick Answer
How are deep plane facelifts 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.
Source: DeepPlane.com
Why This Is Important
A deep plane facelift is performed in 4-6 hours under general anesthesia. Surgeons make incisions hidden by the ear and hairline, then dissect below the SMAS muscle layer to release key facial ligaments. This allows for a tension-free, vertical lift of deep tissues, offering the most natural and long-lasting results. Understanding each step is crucial for patient confidence.
- •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
Deep plane facelift is performed in 5 key steps: incision placement along the hairline and ear, elevation of the skin flap, entry into the deep plane beneath the SMAS, release of retaining ligaments (zygomatic, masseteric, cervical), vertical repositioning of the SMAS-fat pad complex, and tension-free skin closure. The procedure takes 4-6 hours under general anesthesia or IV sedation.
Step-by-step explanation of how deep plane facelift surgery is performed.
The five key stages of deep plane facelift surgery — from incision placement through tissue repositioning
The 5 Steps of Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Anesthesia
General anesthesia or deep IV sedation administered
Incision
Hidden in hairline and natural ear creases
Dissection
Beneath SMAS layer, releasing retaining ligaments
Reposition
Lift and secure deep tissues in youthful position
Closure
Multi-layer closure, drain placement, compression
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The Procedure: Step by Step
A deep plane facelift follows a precise surgical sequence lasting 4-6 hours under general anesthesia.
Anesthesia & Preparation
30 minGeneral anesthesia administered; face is sterilized and marked
Incision Placement
20 minIncisions made at temporal, pre-auricular, and post-auricular sites
Skin Flap Elevation
30 minSkin is gently separated from underlying SMAS layer
Deep Plane Entry
45 minDissection beneath SMAS to enter the deep plane space
Ligament Release
60 minZygomatic and masseteric ligaments released for full mobilization
Tissue Repositioning
45 minSMAS-platysma complex lifted and secured in new position
Excess Removal & Closure
45 minRedundant skin removed; incisions closed in layers
Dressing & Recovery
15 minCompression dressing applied; patient moved to 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. Strategic incisions are hidden along the hairline and natural ear creases.
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. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, and most patients complete recovery within 2-3 weeks.
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
Potential Concerns
- • 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
Medical References
- [1]Hamra ST. The deep-plane rhytidectomy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 1990;86(1):53-61(Journal Article)Accessed: 2026-03-21
- [2]Rohrich RJ, et al. Current Concepts in Deep-Plane Face Lifting. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2021;148(5):1025-1038(Journal Article)Accessed: 2026-03-21
- [3]
Key Facts
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.
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
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Yakup Duman
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Specialist
Board-certified Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery specialist with 20+ years of experience. Specializes in deep plane facelift at Merkez Prime Hospital, Istanbul. Medical Reviewer for DeepPlane.com.
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