Deep Plane Facelifts In 2021: Pros & Cons, Cost, Recovery & More

The Ideal Candidate For Deep Plane Facelifts

The ideal candidate for a deep plane facelift is an older patient with progressed sagging in the cheeks, nasolabial folds, jawline, and chin. According to Aedit.com, this facelift is not recommended for “patients who are receiving secondary facelifts unless the original procedure did not involve a sub-SMAS technique, as scarring from the original procedure may obscure the tissue planes during surgery.”

About The Procedure

The deep plane facelift follows a similar process as other facelifts. The surgeon will begin by making an incision and cutting ligaments that are holding the face into its shape. This cut-and-release technique allows the surgeon to manipulate the deep, underlying tissue. The procedure is completed by suturing the skin to the tissue beneath the earlobe into a more youthful position.

The ultimate goal of a deep plane facelift is to restore a more youthful appearance to the face by correcting midface sagging, marionette lines, jowls, and double chins.

How Much Does A Deep Plane Facelift Cost?

A deep plane facelift is one of the most expensive types of facelifts since it is more invasive and has longer-lasting results. This procedure typically ranges in cost from $20,000-$30,000 (USD).

What To Expect Before The Procedure

It’s recommended to stop taking blood-thinning medication for 2-weeks leading up to a deep plane facelift. It’s also recommended to stop smoking 4-weeks before the procedure, cutting alcohol 2-days before the procedure, and avoiding any food or water 6-hours before the procedure begins.

The Cons of a Deep Plane Facelift

There are a few cons to be aware of when deciding whether a deep plane facelift is right for you. A major con is that the deep plane facelift is the most invasive form of a facelift, which means more expensive pricing, longer recovery time, and more risk for nerve damage.

The Pros of a Deep Plane Facelift

There are also a few pros to a deep plane facelift that are important to know. The deep plane facelift has the most long-lasting, dramatic results in comparison to other facelifts, which is a major pro to this procedure. Another pro is that the deep plane facelift also addresses the neck area, which other facelifts may not.

Recovery

Patients can expect swelling and deep bruising of the entire face immediately after the procedure. This can last for several days and typically subsides within a few weeks. A dressing will be applied to the face after surgery and drains will be worn continuously for about a week to remove accumulated fluid.

During the first 2-weeks after the procedure, the patient should try to avoid turning their neck and instead move their face by turning their shoulders. They should also try to limit jaw movement. Patients should be able to resume light exercise after 3-weeks and more intense exercise after 6-weeks. Pain medication can be prescribed to ease discomfort and applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

Deep Plane Facelift Side Effects

Patients should also be aware of potential side effects with the deep plane facelift. This includes swelling, bleeding, bruising, infection, as well as the potential of facial nerve damage or facial asymmetry. If you’re concerned about the potential side effects, be sure to discuss them with the surgeon prior to the procedure.

Results

Results are typically noticeable immediately after the procedure is complete. The results will be long-lasting, but not permanent. Results typically last 10 to 15-years, but results can be affected by continuous aging and gravity.