Deep Plane Facelift surgery has received increasing attention in recent years, but patients are not always clear about what the procedure involves or how it differs from other types of facelift.
In the first of our four-part Q&A series, Professor Ilankovan explains Deep Plane Facelift surgery in more detail, including how the procedure works, the signs of facial ageing it can address and who may be suitable for surgery.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A Deep Plane Facelift addresses the deeper layers of facial tissue rather than focusing primarily on the skin. It involves releasing the facial retaining ligaments and mobilising the SMAS layer, including the malar and buccal fat pads. These tissues can then be repositioned and suspended before the skin is redraped and any excess skin is removed.
The aim is to restore the position of tissues that have descended with age, rather than relying on tightening the skin alone.
How is it different from a traditional facelift?
A traditional facelift has more limited control over the mobile SMAS layer and the central area of the face.
With a Deep Plane Facelift, we can mobilise and reposition these deeper tissues. This provides better correction where there is descent of the malar fat in the cheek area, deep nasolabial folds (the folds that run from the sides of the nose towards the corners of the mouth), and jowling.
What signs of ageing can it improve?
The procedure can be particularly effective in addressing centro-facial ageing, where the tissues in the central part of the face have descended over time.
It can improve:
- Descended malar fat in the cheek area
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Jowls
- Pre-jowl depression – the hollow or indentation that can develop between the chin and the jowl
Can the procedure improve the neck?
A Deep Plane Facelift does not, by itself, correct problems affecting the neck.
Where there is also ageing or laxity in the neck, a neck lift can be performed at the same time as the facelift. At Wentworth Clinic, the two procedures are usually combined where correction of both the face and neck is required.
Who is a good candidate, and is there an ideal age?
Patients showing signs of centro-facial ageing may be good candidates for a Deep Plane Facelift.
There isn’t a particular age at which someone should have the procedure. Age is not a limitation; suitability is more important than chronological age. The decision is based on the changes present in the individual patient’s face and whether this type of facelift is appropriate for them.
Can it be combined with other facial procedures?
Yes. Depending on the areas of the face being treated, a Deep Plane Facelift can be combined with other procedures, including:
- Brow lift
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
- Genioplasty (chin surgery)
What results can patients realistically expect?
Patients can expect improved fullness through the central area of the face and better facial definition.
The aim is to reposition the deeper facial tissues while maintaining a natural appearance. The changes present in each patient’s face and the results that can realistically be expected will be assessed and discussed during the consultation.
Book a consultation
If you’d like to find out whether facelift surgery may be suitable for you, you can arrange a consultation with Professor Ilankovan to discuss your concerns and the options available.
What’s next? Deep Plane Facelift Q&A Part 2
In Part 2, Professor Ilankovan will focus on what happens during Deep Plane Facelift surgery and what patients can expect during recovery, including anaesthetic, incisions, swelling and bruising, returning to work and exercise, and post-surgery care.
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