When it comes to any procedure, particularly the different approaches of a type of procedure, one approach isn’t necessarily better than the other. Often, and specifically in the case of a deep plane facelift and regular facelift, different approaches exist so that every patient has options. Different approaches have the ability to target different needs and achieve differing results.
When comparing a deep plane facelift and regular facelift, they are both designed to target skin laxity, but they work differently beneath the surface.
In this blog, we’ll break down how these two facelift techniques compare from a structural point of view, and why one might be more suitable for some patients than others.
What is a regular facelift?
A standard or traditional facelift, often referred to as an SMAS facelift, primarily targets the layer known as the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system). This layer is essentially the fibrous tissue just beneath the skin that connects the facial muscles to the skin and fat.
During a regular facelift, this layer is lifted and repositioned, usually by separating it from the deeper tissues and tightening it. The skin is then placed back and any excess is removed. This technique allows for a sufficient degree of lifting, particularly in the lower face and jawline.
This method can be effective for patients who have early to moderate signs of skin laxity in the lower third of the face and neck. It’s generally less involved than a deep plane facelift and doesn’t go quite as far beneath the surface.
How is a deep plane facelift different?
The deep plane facelift takes the approach further beneath the SMAS layer. Instead of separating the skin and SMAS, this technique lifts them as one unit. It also goes deeper, releasing certain retaining ligaments in the face to allow more significant movement of the deeper tissues. The approach can be more suitable for those who have a higher level of skin laxity.
However, this added depth and movement comes with increased complexity. It’s a more technically involved surgery that can take longer to perform and requires a very clear understanding of facial anatomy. It may also involve slightly more swelling during recovery due to the deeper tissue work.
Is a deep plane facelift always necessary?
While the deep plane approach can be suitable for many patients, it’s not automatically going to be the best choice for everyone.
If the level of tissue laxity isn’t too high, a regular SMAS facelift may be more than enough. In fact, using a deep plane approach where it’s not really needed can actually unnecessarily increase the surgical complexity. That’s why it’s important that the technique used is chosen based on what will be most effective for your specific anatomy.
What areas do each procedures focus on?
A regular facelift tends to target the lower two-thirds of the face, including the jawline, lower cheeks, and neck.
The deep plane facelift also focuses on the lower face and neck, but extends into the mid-face. Since the deeper tissues are released, it can allow for more repositioning of the tissue in the area between the nose and cheek, often referred to as the nasolabial region.
Again, this depends on the individual. Not all patients have the same degree of tissue laxity in the midface, and not all facial structures benefit from going deeper beneath the SMAS.
Is the recovery different between the two?
The overall recovery process for both procedures will include some swelling, bruising, and downtime, but the deep plane technique does involve working in a deeper plane of tissue, which can affect how the swelling presents in the first few weeks.
While the skin isn’t separated from the SMAS during a deep plane facelift, which can help with healing, the internal work is more extensive. As a result, swelling may linger slightly longer in some areas, especially around the cheeks.
That said, recovery varies significantly depending on how your body responds to surgery. Some patients find that the difference in downtime between the two techniques is minimal. Regardless of the method used, your surgeon will give you detailed advice on what to expect during the recovery period and when you’ll start to notice changes.
Which procedure achieves longer lasting results?
Durability isn’t always about the depth of the technique. It’s more about how well the tissue is repositioned and secured, and how suitable the chosen method is for your facial structure. Both techniques can produce long-lasting results.
The idea that deep plane facelifts last longer is often based on the fact that deeper tissue release can provide more structural repositioning, particularly in the mid-face. But if a patient doesn’t need that level of work in the mid-face, it may not significantly extend the duration of the result compared to a regular facelift.
Other factors, like your skin quality and how your tissue responds to ageing over time, can also factor into how long the results of the procedure may last.
How do surgeons decide which approach to use?
The choice of approach usually comes down to a combination of facial anatomy, how the soft tissue has changed over time, and the specific areas where structural support has reduced. During a consultation, your surgeon will assess factors like skin elasticity, facial volume, and the depth at which tissue changes are occurring.
Some patients may be more suited to a focused approach to the lower face using the SMAS method. Others may be suitable for a more significant release and repositioning of deeper tissue in the mid-face, making the deep plane approach more suitable.
Essentially, it’s not about one method being universally better, it’s about choosing the right surgical plan.
Discuss your suitability for a deep plane face lift or a traditional facelift with Sydney-based Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Hunt
Now that we’ve established that one approach isn’t necessarily better than the other and it all comes down to your needs, the best way to find which approach may be more suitable for you is to have a consultation with an experienced surgeon.
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon who takes a patient focused approach to every surgery. During a consultation, he’ll be able to assess your facial structure and explain the differences between a deep plane facelift and traditional facelift in more detail. Based on factors like the level of tissue laxity present, he will then be able to make suggestions and propose a treatment plan that is highly tailored to your needs.
Please contact our team to discuss how to schedule your consultation in our Wollongong or Woollahra, Sydney locations.
