Why the Deep Plane Facelift Is a Game Changer for Anti-Aging

The advanced facelift technique that’s redefining what “natural” rejuvenation really means.

Introduction: Meet Linda

When Linda, a 56-year-old business owner from Orange County, first came to see Dr. Siamak Agha, she had a simple request: “I do not want to look different. I just want to look like myself—10 years ago.”

She had done everything “right” over the years: sunscreen, healthy diet, regular exercise, and even non-surgical treatments like fillers and Botox. But no matter how diligent she was, gravity had taken its toll—softening her jawline, deepening her smile lines, and flattening her cheeks.

Linda had heard of facelifts before but worried about looking pulled or unnatural. That’s when Dr. Agha explained the deep plane facelift, an advanced technique designed to lift from the inside out, restoring youthful contours without the telltale signs of surgery.

The Science Behind the Deep Plane Facelift

To understand why this method is different, you need to know a little about facial anatomy.

Beneath your skin is a fibrous layer called the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which connects your facial muscles to your skin. In a traditional facelift, the SMAS is tightened, and the skin is redraped. While the procedure can produce good results, the pull is mostly on the skin, which can lead to that “done” look if over-tightened.

The deep plane facelift goes further—releasing ligaments and lifting the skin, SMAS, and facial fat pads as a single unit. This allows the surgeon to reposition the midface, jawline, and neck in a way that restores natural fullness and smoothness without creating surface tension.

Why It’s a Game Changer

1. Natural Appearance

Because the lift happens at a deeper level, the skin isn’t overly stretched. The result? A refreshed version of you—one that friends and family might describe as “rested” rather than “operated on.”

2. Longer-Lasting Results

Where a traditional SMAS facelift may last 7–10 years, deep plane results often last 10–15 years, thanks to the structural repositioning.

3. Midface Volume Restoration

One of the earliest signs of aging is the descent of the cheek fat pads, which can flatten the midface and deepen nasolabial folds. The deep plane facelift repositions these pads, restoring youthful cheek contours without the need for fillers.

Did you know? Because the skin is handled less aggressively, deep plane facelifts can sometimes result in less bruising than traditional methods—despite being a more advanced lift.

Linda’s Journey

Linda decided to move forward. Her surgery with Dr. Agha included a deep plane facelift combined with a neck lift for a seamless transition from cheekbone to collarbone.

Week 1: She experienced mild swelling and tightness but was surprised by how manageable the discomfort was.

Week 3: The swelling had decreased enough for her to attend a family gathering—no one guessed she had surgery, but several commented on how “healthy” she looked.

Month 3: Her jawline was sharp again, her cheeks subtly lifted, and her smile lines softened. She told us, “It is like looking in the mirror and finally seeing myself again.”

Is It Right for You?

You might be a candidate for a deep plane facelift if you:

• Have sagging in the midface, jawline, and neck.
• Notice deep smile lines or flattened cheeks.
• Want a significant yet natural transformation.
• Are looking for results that will last a decade or more.

Recovery Overview

While healing is unique to each person, most patients can:

• Return to light activities in 1–2 weeks.
• Feel comfortable in social settings in 3–4 weeks.
• See most swelling resolve by 6 weeks, with continued refinement for several months.

“The deep plane facelift changes the way we think about aging. It is not about pulling—it is about restoring the foundation.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the deep plane facelift cost more?

Yes—it is a more complex procedure requiring advanced surgical expertise, but many patients consider the natural look and longevity worth it.

Can it be combined with other surgeries?

Absolutely. Many patients add eyelid surgery, brow lifts, or fat grafting for a more comprehensive result.

Will I still need fillers afterward?

Some patients still choose fillers for fine-tuning, but the repositioned volume often reduces the need for them.

Is it riskier than a traditional facelift?

In skilled hands, risks are comparable. Choosing a surgeon experienced in the deep plane technique is essential.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to explore the most advanced approach to facial rejuvenation, schedule your consultation with Dr. Siamak Agha in Newport Beach. With years of expertise in the deep plane technique, Dr. Agha creates results that look natural, feel authentic, and last for years.

Call us today or request a consultation online to learn how this game-changing procedure can help you look as youthful as you feel.