If you have ever wished that you could get a facelift that was both incredibly effective and natural-looking, you have unknowingly been wishing for a deep plane facelift. This procedure is so named because it works on a deeper plane – the tissues beneath the skin – to create a sculpted, lifted appearance without the need for overtightening the skin. 

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?  

During this procedure, your surgeon will create several small, deep incisions. These incisions are usually cut into the hairline and around the back of the ear. Through these incisions, they will manipulate, tighten, and lift the tissues beneath the skin. Doing this will create a smoother, more lifted look. Once your provider is happy with the resulting lift, they will adjust the skin above these tissues to create a more subtle, natural-looking appearance. This may involve removing skin, fatty tissue, and more. The goal is to leave the patient with an idealized version of their natural appearance.  

Who is a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?  

Given that it is the most dramatic facelift currently available, the deep plane facelift is not suitable for everyone. Your Orange County plastic surgery provider should evaluate you for suitability on an individual basis. However, there are some people who are more likely to be suited for this procedure when compared to others. These include:  

• People in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. 
• Those with deep nasolabial folds. 
• Those experiencing sagging of the cheeks, jawline, under the chin, and on the neck. 
• Those without issues involving blood clotting, taking blood thinners, or who are at high risk for heart attack or stroke.  

Anyone who undergoes any type of facelift should be a nonsmoker – or at least willing to quit smoking for several weeks before and after the procedure. This minimizes risks during the surgery and recovery period.  

How Long Will Recovery Take? 

Your recovery is an important time. Your surgical wounds are not the only thing that is healing. Your underlying tissues are also healing, as is your body after undergoing general anesthesia. You may also deal with mental and emotional health issues after having any procedure that alters your appearance, and recovery will naturally take longer if you contract an infection.  

Generally, you should expect at least two to three weeks for initial healing. This will get you through the most painful and most dangerous phase of your recovery. After this, you may be able to return to work, although some patients take more or less time.  

Residual swelling may continue for around four to six months. This is not usually painful or even uncomfortable, so be sure to address any concerns with the swelling with your doctor. You may have visible scars for several months as well, although these typically fade over time until they are nearly invisible.  

It is important to remember that while you will see immediate results as soon as your bandages are removed, this is not what your face will ultimately look like. Swelling will continue to resolve over time and the face will “settle” into the finished appearance. Give your face time to heal before you determine whether you are happy with your procedure.