Procedure | Surgical
Deep Plane Facelift
The deep plane techniques target the skin and muscles that are responsible for facial expression. Lifting both as a single unit that repositions the deep facial musculature. The deep plane facelift avoids the problem of the tight overfilled look as compared to modern facelifts. The main tenet of the deep plane facelift is that it lifts only under the muscle layer, leaving the skin attached to the muscle layers, so it can never look tight. It also lifts the cheeks by releasing the tethering points of the face in the deep plane so that the addition of fat or filler is unnecessary. It produces longer-lasting results than other facelifts. Because there is little tissue damage near the skin surface, patients have less bruising and bleeding with a deep plane facelift.
This technique is by far less performed as it calls for a higher level of precise skill. Choose your doctor wisely and ensure he/she is certified and qualified with sufficient experience.
In pre-op stage:
• Avoid wearing makeup and jewelry to your appointment.
• You’ll also need someone to drive you home.
• It is important to stop medications as recommended from your doctor.
• Stop smoking for 4 to 6 weeks before surgery.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Avoid alcohol 2 days before the surgery.
The surgery:
The deep plane facelift begins in a similar fashion as other facelifts. Once the incision is made after general anesthesia into the face, the surgeon will cut and release various ligaments that were tethering the face into its current shape. This allows for internal and deep manipulation of the underlying tissue rather than relying on the pulling of sutures to make the intended effect. This creates a stronger and longer lasting effect. To finish the procedure, the flap is suspended and sutured to the tissue beneath the earlobe.
Typically takes around three to five hours performing.
The procedure may last anywhere from 2 to 5 hours depending on individual procedure requirements.
Expect deep bruising and swelling of the face right after the procedure. You may be required to wear compressive garments and drains continuously for a week.
Following the next 2 weeks, try to limit jaw and neck rotation. Make sure to keep to your prescribed medications such as antibiotics and pain medications.
Swelling and bruising to be lessen approximately 3 weeks post-operative.
You may resume light exercise in about a month. Try to stay away from strenuous activity for up to 6-7 weeks.
Results would be noticeable immediately after the surgery. While it is longer-lasting, it is not permanent. Natural aging and gravity will take over. Expected to last approximately 10-15 years.
Side effects from a deep plane facelift may include infection, bleeding, swelling, bruising, facial nerve damage, and facial asymmetry.
