What is a Deep-Plane Facelift and How Does It Differ from a Classic Facelift?

Facial rejuvenation and lifting are among the most common reasons why patients (both women and men) seek the help of a plastic surgeon. Modern surgery offers different approaches, and one of the most advanced is the deep-plane facelift. This method is considered the “gold standard” in complex cases and for patients who expect the most natural and long-lasting results.

In this article, I will explain what a deep-plane facelift is, what makes it unique, and how it differs from a classic facelift.

Classic Facelift: Essence and Capabilities

A classic facelift, currently performed by plastic surgeons worldwide, involves working with the superficial facial tissues. The surgeon removes excess skin, partially reinforces the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), and fixes the tissues in a new position.

This method improves facial contours, reduces the appearance of nasolabial folds, enhances the jawline, and eliminates excess neck skin.

However, there are limitations: the classic facelift can sometimes create a “tight mask” effect and does not always sufficiently address the deeper structures that cause a tired facial expression and reveal one’s age.

Deep-Plane Facelift: What Sets It Apart

Unlike the classic approach, the deep-plane facelift involves working in a deeper layer—between the SMAS and the facial muscles. In other words, the plastic surgeon not only tightens superficial tissues but also mobilizes and repositions entire “blocks” of soft tissue, including fat pads and the ligamentous framework.

This provides several key advantages:

• Natural results. The face does not appear “over-pulled”; features retain individuality.
• Targeting key aging zones. The method effectively corrects midface sagging, deep nasolabial folds, jowls, and neck laxity.
• Longer-lasting effect. Because it acts on deeper tissues, results last longer than with a superficial lift.
• Less skin tension. Postoperative scars heal almost invisibly since the main support comes from internal structures.

Comparing the Two Methods

• Depth of intervention. In a classic facelift, the surgeon works with skin and superficial SMAS, while in the deep-plane facelift, deeper tissues and ligaments are addressed.
• Result. A classic lift gives visible improvement, but sometimes less natural; deep-plane creates a subtle effect of a “rejuvenated but not operated” face.
• Duration of effect. Classic facelift results usually last 5–7 years, while deep-plane often lasts over 10 years.
• Complexity. Deep-plane requires high surgical skill and thorough anatomical knowledge, as work is performed close to facial nerves.

Who Is a Candidate for a Deep-Plane Facelift?

This method is recommended for patients with significant age-related changes in the mid and lower face, pronounced nasolabial folds, jowls, loss of jawline definition, and neck sagging.

For patients with minimal changes, less invasive techniques (endoscopic lift or fat grafting) are often sufficient. But in cases of more advanced aging, the deep-plane facelift is usually the most justified choice.

Conclusion

The deep-plane facelift is a modern, technically demanding, but highly effective method of facial rejuvenation. It delivers natural results and significantly extends a youthful appearance. Unlike the classic facelift, it works with the fundamental structures of the face, restoring harmony without a “mask effect” and preserving natural expressions.

However, the success of the procedure depends on correct indications, individualized planning, thorough preparation, and - most importantly - the surgeon’s experience. That is why it is crucial to choose a specialist skilled in this technique, one who understands that for the patient, the main goal is not just rejuvenation, but preserving the uniqueness and natural beauty of their features.