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2026.07.21
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift? A Simple Explanation of the Expected Results, Benefits, and Drawbacks
Specialist in rhinoplasty. He has performed many surgeries for functional restoration including nasal septal curvature at university hospitals, and has successfully performed rhinoplasty that requires advanced techniques at the level of reconstructive surgery. Currently, we offer rhinoplasty optimized for the Japanese and Asian population by incorporating advanced world-standard techniques such as preservation rhinoplasty. Our specialty is the “compact and sharp design with a tipped nose,” which is considered ideal in Europe and the United States. Combining his extensive experience as a plastic surgeon certified by the Japanese Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery with the perspective of cosmetic surgery, he performs surgeries that combine functionality and beauty.
A deep-plane facelift that targets not only the skin but also the SMAS and ligaments located deep within the face.
Some of you may be wondering, “Does it really work on nasolabial folds and sagging cheeks?” or “Will my face end up looking unnaturally tight?”
At BIANCA CLINIC, we focus on realigning the facial structure—not just tightening the skin’s surface—by carefully assessing the skeletal structure, facial muscles, and the degree of sagging.
In this article, we explain the mechanics of the surgery, as well as its expected effects, advantages, and disadvantages, from a doctor’s perspective.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that targets the SMAS and releases the facial ligaments to lift the tissues of the midface and lower face as a single unit.
Facelifts That Target the SMAS and Ligaments
SMAS refers to the fascial tissue located beneath the skin; it is a supportive structure in the face that is connected to the skin, fat, and facial muscles.
In a deep plane facelift, after dissecting the area beneath the skin as needed, the surgeon proceeds to the dissection plane located deep within the SMAS.
While moving the skin and SMAS as a single unit, the ligaments that support the facial tissues are released to the necessary extent, and the sagging tissues are lifted.
Releasing the fixed ligaments makes it easier to reposition the sagging cheek tissue without applying excessive tension. This surgical procedure is designed to sculpt the midface and jawline in a three-dimensional manner.
Lifts the midface and jawline as a single unit
During the surgery, an incision is made from the hairline at the temples, around the ears, and along the hairline at the back of the head.
Next, the area around the SMAS is dissected beneath the skin, and the tissues connected to the cheeks and mouth are repositioned and secured. Excess skin is adjusted to avoid excessive tension, then excised and sutured.
A key feature of this procedure is that, rather than simply pulling the skin tightly, it re-supports the deeper tissues, making it easier to achieve changes in the cheeks and jawline while minimizing unnatural tightness.
However, there are several techniques used in traditional facelifts, and not all of them involve lifting only the skin. It is important not to judge which method is better based solely on its name, but rather to choose the one that best suits the condition of your face.
Designing to suit the skeletal structure and facial expressions of Japanese people
Deep Plane Facelift is the most common facelift procedure in Europe and the United States.
However, there are differences between Westerners and Japanese and other Asians in terms of skeletal structure, skin thickness, fat distribution, and facial muscle movements.
Therefore, rather than simply applying surgical techniques used overseas as-is, it is important to adjust the extent of dissection and the direction of traction to suit each individual’s facial features.
At Bianca Clinic, we plan surgeries by carefully assessing the overall facial structure, the position of the cheeks, nasolabial folds, the jawline, and the balance with the eye area and neck. Rather than simply lifting the midface aggressively, we prioritize designing procedures that maintain the natural harmony of the entire face.
What results can I expect from a Deep Plane Facelift?
With a deep plane facelift, you can expect to improve sagging across a wide area of the face, including the cheeks, the area around the nasolabial folds, and the jawline.
The main changes you can expect are as follows:
- Correcting the position of sagging cheeks and the midface
- Minimize the appearance of sagging skin around the nasolabial folds
- Lift sagging skin along the jawline
- Smooth the transition between the face and neck
- Aiming for a natural expression with minimal tension
Since the Deep Plane Facelift targets deep tissues such as the SMAS and ligaments, it aims to improve sagging not only along the jawline but also in the midface.
We’ll adjust the overall balance of your face while checking the position of your cheeks, the area around your nasolabial folds, and any sagging around your mouth.
In addition, by combining this procedure with a neck lift, it is possible to simultaneously address sagging from under the chin down to the neck.
By designing the face and neck as a single unit rather than treating them separately, it becomes easier to adjust the balance of the contours not only from the front but also from the side and at an angle.
On the other hand, sagging isn't the only cause of nasolabial folds. Factors such as bone structure, body fat, skin condition, and facial expressions can also play a role, so even with surgery, the folds may not disappear completely.
Depending on the condition of your face, a different treatment or a combination of several methods may be more appropriate.
What are the pros and cons of a deep plane facelift?
While this procedure makes it easy to lift the midface as a single unit, it carries the risks typical of surgical procedures, such as swelling, bruising, hematomas, and nerve damage.
Benefits of the Deep Plane Facelift
- Targets both the midface and the jawline simultaneously
- It’s easy to lift without applying excessive tension to the skin alone
- Makes it easy to sculpt the entire face with dimension
- Can be adjusted all the way down to the neck when combined with a neck lift, etc.
- In some cases, you may be able to achieve more dramatic results than with thread lifts or device-based treatments.
A major advantage is that the deep tissues from the cheeks to the jawline can be moved as a single unit.
Because the procedure does not rely solely on the surface layer of skin to lift sagging tissue, it minimizes the tension placed on the skin when closing the incision, making it easier to achieve a natural-looking result.
Disadvantages of the Deep Plane Facelift
- This procedure involves an incision and will result in a scar.
- Swelling and bruising may occur
- There is a possibility of hematomas, infections, or impaired blood flow in the skin.
- There are risks associated with general anesthesia.
Because the deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that involves incisions, swelling and bruising may occur after the procedure.
In addition, there is a possibility—albeit small—that scars, asymmetry, contractures, or changes in sensation may occur.
It would be good for you to understand that the recovery process and final results may vary from person to person.
It’s important not to base your decision solely on the extent of the change, but to listen to your doctor’s explanation—including the risks and what to expect during your post-operative recovery—and carefully consider whether the procedure is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ll answer your questions about key points you’ll want to know when considering the procedure—including treatment time, recovery period, post-operative care, results, and before-and-after photos.
Q. How long does a Deep Plane facelift take?
A. The procedure typically takes about 5 hours. If other procedures, such as a neck lift, are performed at the same time, it may take about 6 hours. Since the duration varies depending on the surgical technique and the extent of the procedure, please confirm the details after your consultation.
Q. How long is the downtime for a Deep Plane facelift?
A. Swelling and bruising typically subside in about two weeks, but the puffiness may last for about a month. Recovery varies from person to person, and bruising may sometimes extend to the neck or collarbone area.
Q. What does post-operative care for a deep plane facelift involve?
A. After surgery, you may be fitted with a drain to prevent blood from pooling, as well as gauze and a face bandage. Since the face bandage must be worn at all times for about 7 days after surgery, it’s a good idea to make sure your schedule allows for this.
Q. How long do the results of a Deep Plane facelift last?
A. Since the procedure involves moving and securing deep tissues, long-term changes can be expected; however, we cannot specify a uniform duration for these results. Aging continues even after surgery, and the outcome will vary depending on the condition of the skin and lifestyle habits.
Q. Can I see before-and-after photos of the Deep Plane Facelift procedure?
A. You can view before-and-after photos on the treatment page. However, while these photos serve as a reference for the potential changes, they do not guarantee the same results. Please consult with the doctor during your consultation to see if there are any cases with a skeletal structure or degree of sagging similar to your own.
If you're considering a deep plane facelift, start with a comprehensive examination of your entire face.
A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that targets the SMAS and ligaments to structurally lift the midface and jawline.
While it is easy to contour large areas of the cheeks, mouth, and jawline, it is important to be aware that this procedure carries risks and downtime specific to surgery.
The appropriate surgical technique and direction of traction depend on the condition of the skeleton, skin, fat, muscles, and neck area.
At BIANCA CLINIC, we assess the overall balance of your face and discuss your preferences before determining the necessary scope of surgery.
If you're wondering whether a Deep Plane facelift is right for you, please schedule a consultation to discuss your options.
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