Simple Answers to the Top 15 Most Frequently Asked Questions about Deep Plane Facelift Surgery by Dr. Albert Yang

A deep plane facelift releases facial ligaments to allow better repositioning of the face and neck tissues. A traditional SMAS facelift does not release these ligaments.

Usually yes, but it depends on which areas of the face the surgery aims to address. Traditional facelift techniques can also provide excellent results.

Because deep plane surgery allows surgeons greater control over multiple facial fat pads and neck muscles, it may provide a more dramatic result in the cheeks and jawline.

In smokers, skin-preserving deep plane surgery may improve skin health after surgery.

Overall, both approaches offer great results; the best option depends on the patient’s anatomy and goals. Choose a surgeon who is experienced and confident in their technique.

This is a great, but complex question. In general facelifts can be separated into 4 categories. Each refers to a different dissection level in the 5 layers of the face:

1. Skin
2. subcutaneous fat
3. SMAS
4. Facial ligaments and space
5. Periosteum

Category 1: Skin only facelift
Category 2: SMAS facelift
Category 3: Deep plane facelift (Facial ligament and space)
Category 4: Periosteal facelift

  • A “mini-facelift” usually refers to category 1,2 type of facelift. This addresses layers 1~3 (skin, fat and SMAS).
  • A traditional facelift is a broad term that historically refers to techniques that manipulate layers 1–3.
  • Deep plane facelift manipulates layer 1-4 of the face (skin, fat, SMAS and facial ligaments)
  • Some surgeries manipulate layer 5 (periosteum); these are sometimes referred to as endoscopic facelifts or mid-facelifts.

Most patients with signs of facial aging are candidates. In our practice, deep plane surgery is recommended especially for patients with significant facial aging changes, significant weight loss (ie. “ozempic face”), previous/current smokers, or history of facial infections.

At any age, the ideal time for facelift is when there are signs of aging that the patient would like improved and is within the confines of modern surgical capabilities. A Stanford University research published in 2024 suggested that aging occurs significantly at age 44 years and 60 years. Menopause is also critical since the hormonal changes can accelerate facial aging.

Facelift can be done safely in younger patients in their 30's, and can still be done safely in patients who are in their 90’s.

There are no limits

Since each facelift surgery can last 5-15 years, it is not uncommon to see people with 2-3 facelifts in the course of their life. More than 3 can also be done safely in patients who may have more laxity that needs to be addressed.

5-15 years. The results will depend on patient anatomy and age.

In general, the younger the patient the longer the results will last due to better the elasticity of the face and neck.

Good bone structure in the cheek, chin and jawline also improves the longevity of the surgery.

  • Downtime: 2 weeks (Most patients are presentable after 2 weeks)
  • Exercise: In 3-4 weeks
  • Final result: 3 months
  • The recovery period is similar to traditional SMAS facelifts.

Yes, deep plane facelifts are safe. The complication profile of traditional SMAS and deep plane facelift is similar and rare. However, it may be more common to have temporary nerve weakness with deep plane surgery which resolves with time.

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Nerve injury
  • Asymmetry
  • Scarring
  • Prolonged swelling/numbness
  • Need for revision

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon fee of a facelift is $11,395. Deep plane facelift is generally more expensive than traditional facelift because of increased anesthesia time and technical expertise.

Scars are minimal and well hidden around the ear. The incisions are similar to traditional facelift and heals similarly.

In general, it is recommended to return to exercise 3 to 4 weeks after surgery. Please clarify with your surgeon.

Yes! It is especially good for men because male have thicker soft tissue and a tendency to bleed.

Patients usually have pain of 4-5 on a scale of 10 (10 being the worst pain).

Deep plane facelift and traditional facelift have similar amounts of discomfort.

Skin is lifted → SMAS is encountered → SMAS is lifted → Facial ligaments are released → SMAS (Deep plane) is lifted in desired direction → Excess skin is trimmed off.