Deep Plane Facelift in Newport Beach
How this advanced technique delivers natural, long-lasting results by lifting more than just the skin.
Facelift surgery has come a long way since its early days, when the focus was mainly on pulling the skin tighter to smooth wrinkles and sagging. While those early facelifts did create a younger appearance, they sometimes resulted in the “windblown” or overly stretched look people now associate with bad cosmetic surgery.
Today, there’s a more advanced option gaining attention for its ability to create natural, youthful results that last longer than many traditional techniques: the deep plane facelift. This approach doesn’t just tighten skin—it repositions the deeper layers of tissue for a more comprehensive, long-lasting lift.
If you’ve been researching facelift options and want to understand why the deep plane technique is considered the gold standard by many top surgeons, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Makes the Deep Plane Facelift Different?
The term “deep plane” refers to the layer beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system)—a fibrous network that connects the facial muscles to the skin. In a traditional facelift, the surgeon lifts and tightens the SMAS layer to reposition the skin and underlying tissue.
In a deep plane facelift, the surgeon goes deeper—releasing ligaments and lifting the skin, SMAS, and underlying fat as one unit. This approach allows for more dramatic repositioning without the tension that can cause an unnatural look.
By lifting the face as a whole, using the deep plane technique:
- Restores midface volume by repositioning cheek fat pads.
- Softens deep nasolabial folds (smile lines).
- Improves the jawline and jowls.
- Enhances the neck and lower face.
Why Patients and Surgeons Love This Technique
Natural Results
Because the skin and deeper tissues are lifted together, there’s less pulling on the surface. This eliminates the tight, overly smooth appearance and instead restores the natural curves and fullness of a youthful face.
Longer-Lasting Outcomes
Traditional SMAS facelifts often last 7–10 years. A deep plane facelift can extend that to 10–15 years for many patients, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking durability.
Comprehensive Rejuvenation
The deep plane approach addresses multiple signs of aging at once—midface sagging, deep creases, jawline definition, and neck laxity—creating balanced improvement from cheekbone to collarbone.
Who Is a Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?
Ideal candidates are typically in their 40s to 70s with moderate to significant facial aging. You might benefit if you have:
- Deep folds around the mouth and nose.
- Flattened or sagging cheeks.
- Jowls or loss of jawline definition.
- Loose skin or banding in the neck.
Skin elasticity still plays a role in recovery and results, but this technique is especially beneficial for patients seeking a significant yet natural transformation.
The Procedure in Detail
A deep plane facelift is performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The surgeon makes discreet incisions along the hairline and around the ears, sometimes extending slightly behind the ears for neck rejuvenation.
Instead of separating the skin from the SMAS layer, the surgeon works underneath, freeing key retaining ligaments so the entire facial unit can be lifted without tension. The lifted tissues are then secured in a higher, more youthful position, and excess skin is trimmed before closing the incisions.
Surgery usually takes 4–6 hours, depending on whether it’s combined with other procedures such as a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or fat grafting.
Recovery and What to Expect
Because the skin is handled less aggressively in a deep plane facelift, some patients experience less visible bruising compared to traditional facelifts. Swelling is still present and may peak around day 3–4 before gradually subsiding.
Most patients:
- Return to light activities in 1–2 weeks.
- Resume social events in 3–4 weeks (makeup can help conceal residual bruising).
- See significant results by 6 weeks, with ongoing subtle improvements for several months.
Wearing a supportive compression garment as recommended can help manage swelling and promote smooth healing.
“The deep plane facelift works with your facial anatomy—not against it—lifting from the foundation up for a result that looks like you, only younger.”
Deep Plane Facelift vs. Traditional Facelift
| Feature | Traditional SMAS Facelift | Deep Plane Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Lift depth | SMAS layer only | Beneath SMAS layer |
| Midface rejuvenation | Limited | Significant |
| Longevity | 7–10 years | 10–15 years |
| Natural look | Depends on technique | Highly natural |
| Bruising & swelling | Moderate | Sometimes less due to less skin separation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the deep plane facelift more painful?
Not usually. Discomfort levels are similar to other facelift techniques, and many patients describe it as tightness rather than pain.
Does it cost more?
Often yes, because it’s a more complex procedure that requires advanced surgical training and longer operating time.
Can it be combined with other facial procedures?
Absolutely. Many patients combine it with eyelid surgery, brow lift, or fat grafting for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Will I still look like myself?
Yes—the goal is to refresh and restore your natural features, not change them.
Is a Deep Plane Facelift Right for You?
If you’re ready for significant, natural-looking facial rejuvenation that stands the test of time, a deep plane facelift may be the ideal choice.
At our Newport Beach practice, Dr. Siamak Agha is experienced in advanced facelift techniques, including the deep plane approach, and tailors every surgery to the individual’s anatomy and goals.
Call us today or request a consultation online to learn more about whether a deep plane facelift can help you achieve the youthful, refreshed look you’ve been wanting.
