A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that lifts and repositions deeper facial structures—not just the skin—to create more natural-looking, longer-lasting results.
When patients start exploring their facial rejuvenation options, they’re often surprised to discover that there are multiple facelift options. One of the most popular methods I use as a board-certified facial plastic surgeon is the deep plane facelift. Read on to learn more about this procedure and whether it’s right for you.
How Does a Facelift Work?
In a traditional facelift, the plastic surgeon achieves a more youthful and refreshed look by removing excess skin and fat, tightening and reshaping the underlying facial muscles and tissues, and repositioning the skin. The result? Diminished facial sagging, a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, and more youthful facial contours.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
An excellent option for patients with more advanced signs of aging, my deep plane facelift technique uses a more extensive incision than my short scar approach. This longer incision, positioned strategically to be concealed in natural skin folds and along the hairline, enables improved access to facial tissues and allows more dramatic surgical corrections, particularly in the neck area.
Deep Plane vs. Other Facelift Techniques: What’s the Difference?
| Technique | What It Targets | Best For | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Facelift | Skin and superficial tissues | Mild to moderate aging | Subtle improvement with some tightening of deeper tissues |
| Short-Scar Facelift | Limited skin and superficial tissue tightening through shorter incisions | Early signs of aging, minimal sagging | More modest improvement with shorter incisions and recovery |
| Deep Plane Facelift | Deeper facial structures (SMAS and retaining ligaments) | Moderate to advanced aging | More comprehensive, natural-looking lift with longer-lasting results |
The deep plane approach allows the surgeon to reposition underlying structures as a unit, which can reduce tension on the skin and create more natural contours.
How Much Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
The cost of a deep plane facelift varies based on a few key factors, including the surgeon’s level of experience, their geographic location, and the surgical facility. According to user-reported data on RealSelf, the average cost of a deep plane facelift in 2026 is around $25,629. To make the procedure more accessible, we offer financing through Cherry payment plans.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Facelift?
I advise my patients to allow 7 to 10 days for rest, at which time swelling and bruising begin to diminish. Many patients prefer to take about 2 weeks of social downtime before returning to work or being seen in public, and most can return to their regular routines and exercise within a few weeks. Visible improvements become increasingly apparent as the residual swelling continues to subside.
Learn more about post-facelift physical and social downtime in our related blog post.
Does a Deep Plane Facelift Look More Natural?
Because the deeper tissues are repositioned without placing tension on the skin, deep plane facelifts are often associated with more natural-looking results and less of a “pulled” appearance.
How Long Does a Deep Plane Facelift Last?
One of the most appealing aspects of a deep plane facelift is its longevity. Unlike some other facial rejuvenation procedures, the results of a deep plane facelift can last for a decade or more. This is because the surgery targets the deep structures of the face, providing a more enduring solution to the effects of aging. A healthy lifestyle and diligent sun protection can help extend the longevity of your facelift results.
Is a Deep Plane Facelift Right for Me?
You may be a good candidate for a deep plane facelift if you:
- Have moderate to advanced facial sagging, particularly in the cheeks and jawline
- Notice deep nasolabial folds or jowling
- Want more extensive, longer-lasting results than a limited or mini facelift can provide
- Are in good overall health and able to take time for recovery
Patients with earlier signs of aging may benefit from less extensive procedures, such as a mini facelift or nonsurgical treatments. In some cases, particularly when neck concerns are more pronounced than facial aging, a direct neck lift may be recommended as an alternative approach.
Take the Next Step Toward Facial Rejuvenation
If you’re considering a deep plane facelift and want to understand whether it’s the right approach for your goals, I invite you to request a consultation online or call our office at (520) 200-2218. During your visit, we’ll evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your options, and create a personalized surgical plan.
This blog post was originally published in December 2023 and updated in March 2026.
Leave a Reply