How is a Deep Plane Facelift Done

How is a Deep Plane Facelift Done? Learn about the Procedure

You can spot a poorly applied facelift from across the room. It’s often marked by a tight mouth, stretched eyes, or the loss of expression.

A good deep plane facelift is different. It’s quiet. It lifts the right places and the deep places without exaggerating the features. But how is it done? What happens under the skin? And why does it last longer than a traditional facelift?

In this guide, you’ll learn what makes the deep plane facelift different, how the procedure is done, and what to expect as you heal and settle into your restored appearance.

How Does a Deep Plane Facelift Work?

A deep plane facelift starts below the skin, deep under the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). This strong layer shapes your jawline, midface, and lower face. 

As years pass, the SMAS loosens. Sagging jowls form, nasolabial folds deepen, and the soft curve of your cheekbones fades.

A skilled facial plastic surgeon works under the SMAS, not on top of it. This access makes it easier to gently lift the fat pads and reshape the facial muscles to restore a youthful structure in the targeted areas.

Precise incisions are made near the hairline and ears. Deep sutures support the lifted layers while the skin settles cleanly above. Nothing is pulled tight, and nothing looks stretched.

A deep plane facelift repositions the entire layer as one. This avoids surface tension and keeps your facial features natural and balanced. A traditional facelift or SMAS facelift pulls at the skin and SMAS separately. The deep plane technique treats the more noticeable effects of aging inside the structure.

When done well by experienced surgeons, this cosmetic surgery’s results last longer. You get a stronger lift, soft lines, and a face that looks refreshed without looking touched.

This form of facial plastic surgery is done under general anesthesia. It takes several hours. 

Healing happens in stages. During the deep plane facelift recovery period, swelling fades, tissues settle, and the face slowly reshapes into a calmer, more youthful appearance.

Recovery is an Important Step in a Successful Deep Plane Facelift

The success of a deep plane facelift depends as much on healing as it does on surgery. Every small step after the cosmetic procedure shapes the final result. Here’s what to expect and how to help your face recover well:

Protect the incisions

Small incisions are made near the hairline and ears. These must stay clean and dry, especially during the first few days. Touch them as little as possible. Follow your surgeon’s cleaning instructions carefully. Proper care helps the sutures heal and keeps scars thin and hidden.

Manage Pain and Swelling

Mild pain, tightness, and swelling are normal after a facelift procedure. Use pain medication as prescribed. Ice packs can help during the first 48 hours, but only if your surgeon allows them. Swelling will peak around day three and start to ease slowly.

Rest and Avoid Strain

The first week is for rest. Avoid bending, heavy lifting, or any sudden movements that could strain the facial muscles and deeper tissues. The work done to lift your midface, jawline, and lower face needs time to settle without pressure.

Support the Healing of Deeper Layers

A deep plane facelift surgery moves the SMAs layer, fat pads, and soft tissue layer together. These deeper structures need time to reattach and heal. Small movements in the wrong direction during early healing can weaken your final facelift result. Give the lift time to “lock in.”

Expect Swelling and Changes

Swelling is normal. Bruising around the cheekbones, nasolabial folds, and neck skin may happen. In the first month, your face might look fuller or uneven in spots. This is part of the recovery period, not a sign of a problem. By the third month, most swelling fades. Subtle details like sharper facial features and smoother jowls will start to show.

Watch for Milestones

  • First week: Rest. Healing begins at the surface.
  • Week three: Major swelling drops. Early contours of the facial structure appear.
  • Month three: Facial rejuvenation becomes more visible.
  • Six months: Most soft tissues settle into place.
  • One year: Full results. The lift feels and moves like your natural face.

Long-Term Care Matters

Even after healing, sun protection, good skin care, and healthy habits keep your facelift results strong. Protecting your facial aging investment helps your face stay lifted longer.

FAQs

How long does recovering from a deep plane facelift take?

Most of the swelling fades by the third month. Small changes continue to settle for up to a year. You will see early improvements by the end of the first week, but your final facelift results take time. Patience leads to stronger, natural-looking results.

Will my deep plane facelift look natural?

Yes. A deep plane facelift works under the SMAS layer and deeper tissues, lifting the facial structure as a whole. This avoids tight skin or pulled features. A skilled double board-certified facial plastic surgeon focuses on restoring balance, not changing how you look.

Will I need other surgical procedures with my facelift?

Some people combine a deep plane facelift with a neck lift, brow lift, or blepharoplasty for full facial rejuvenation. If you have sagging neck skin or heavy eyelids, your facelift surgeon may recommend small extra lifts for a better result.

How soon can I return to work after a deep plane facelift?

Most people feel ready to return to work within two to three weeks, depending on how fast swelling and bruising heal. Plan for a lighter schedule early, and avoid heavy lifting or stressful activity until your facial features settle.

How do I make my facelift results last longer?

Good habits help. Protect your face from the sun. Avoid smoking. Follow your post-op instructions carefully. Keep a simple, strong skincare routine. Healthy skin slows the signs of aging and helps your deep plane facelift results stay stronger, longer.

Want to Know More About Deep Plane Facelift Procedures?

A strong face is built from deep inside. A deep plane facelift frees the face where aging pulls hardest and lets your features settle back into balance.

You now know how the facelift procedure works. You understand the steps, the healing, and the quiet patience needed for real change.

If you’re ready to lift the right way, then it’s time to speak with someone who knows the work.

Book your private consultation with Dr. Jay Calvert today.