To understand your possible deep plane facelift cost, it’s important to know that what you’re paying for isn’t just the time spent in theatre.
The price is influenced by a number of procedural factors that relate to how this type of facelift is performed and what it involves. It’s a much more extensive surgery than other types of facelifts, which may mean that it could sit at the higher end of the facelift pricing scale.
In this blog, we’ll go over the specific elements of the deep plane technique that contribute to its overall cost.
How is a deep plane facelift performed?
The deep plane facelift works below the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, which means it doesn’t just tighten or reposition the surface tissues of the face. Instead, it repositions the deeper layers that are responsible for a lot of the structural changes that can occur over time. The procedure tends to involve a more extensive approach than a traditional facelift or a mini facelift.
That deeper level of work usually means a longer time in the operating theatre. The more intricate the technique, the more hours a surgeon will typically need to carefully reposition and secure the tissue. Longer surgery times mean higher anaesthetic fees and additional theatre usage costs. The deep plane approach also requires more detailed planning before the actual procedure, which adds to the pre-operative work involved.
Anaesthesia and total procedure time
When you book a surgical procedure, part of what you’re paying for includes the anaesthetic, the anaesthetist, and the amount of time you’ll be in theatre. A deep plane facelift can take anywhere from four to six hours in most cases, though this can vary depending on the individual and whether any additional procedures are being performed at the same time.
The longer the surgery takes, the higher the hospital or facility costs will be. That includes the cost of operating room time and post-operative monitoring. Since deep plane facelifts are more involved than other types, they may require a longer recovery period in the hospital or day surgery facility.
The personalisation of the procedure steps
Deep plane facelifts are not one-size-fits-all procedures. The amount of tissue that needs to be released and repositioned can vary significantly. Some patients may want to address the midface or jawline areas more extensively, while others might only need a more targeted adjustment. The more complex the tissue repositioning, the more time and precision is required, which again affects the overall cost.
The incision pattern also varies from patient to patient. In cases where previous facelifts have been performed, there may be scar tissue that needs to be carefully managed, which can add complexity to the procedure. Revision deep plane facelifts will generally cost more due to this additional work and the planning involved.
Combination procedures and how they affect cost
It’s not uncommon for a deep plane facelift to be performed in conjunction with other facial surgeries. This could include a neck lift (platysmaplasty), eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or a brow lift (browplasty). Adding these procedures at the same time can affect the total cost in different ways.
On one hand, combining surgeries can be more efficient in terms of hospital time and anaesthesia. On the other, it increases the duration of the overall surgery and can require more complex recovery care. For example, a neck lift performed at the same time might involve extra incisions and slightly longer surgical time, both of which will usually be reflected in the total cost.
Overall, when it comes to your deep plane facelift cost, what you’re really paying for is the level of work involved in the actual procedure, which includes how long it takes, how much planning is required, and what’s included in terms of care and materials. It’s one of the more technically involved facial surgeries, and that’s usually reflected in the pricing. Your cost will also include components like the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia fees and hospital fees.
Discuss the details of your deep plane facelift cost with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Hunt in Sydney
Deep plane facelifts are tailored to the anatomy of each patient, so having a consultation is the more accurate way to calculate your costs.
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS & ASPS) who has spent years refining his techniques in performing a variety of procedures. He takes a careful, detailed and patient focused approach to every surgery, with the aim to use the most suitable procedure techniques for each patient.
As well as a personalised quote that outlines the details of your deep plane facelift cost, a consultation will also allow you to gain clarity on the procedure process, from preparation through to the recovery stage.
Dr Hunt currently has practices in Wollongong and Woollahra, Sydney. Please contact our team to discuss how to arrange your consultation.