7th Oct 2024
There is a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between a deep plane facelift and a SMAS facelift. Both provide a rejuvenating effect, but the techniques used differ, and the results may vary. Here's a look at the two anti-ageing surgical procedures and how they can help you look younger.
It is crucial to choose a FRCS plastic surgeon for these procedures to ensure the best possible outcomes and safety, especially when considering advanced methods like the deep plane technique.
Understanding Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of ageing in the face and neck.
This surgical procedure can address issues such as sagging skin, deep creases, and loss of muscle tone, helping patients achieve a more youthful and more refreshed appearance.
There are various techniques used in facelift surgery, each with its own unique approach and benefits. Two of the most commonly discussed methods are the SMAS facelift and the deep plane facelift. Understanding the differences between these techniques can help you make an informed decision about which procedure is right for you. The deep plane technique, can offer long-lasting aesthetic improvements by targeting deeper anatomical structures, including the SMAS layer and facial retaining ligaments.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift surgery?
A deep plane facelift procedure is a surgical technique that involves making incisions in natural contours to minimise scarring, addressing deeper facial tissues for enhanced results, and ensuring longevity of the effects. The deep plane technique allows for tension-free skin closure and provides significant, long-lasting aesthetic improvements by targeting deeper anatomical structures. It removes excess facial fat, skin, and muscle from the lower face and neck, typically used to improve the appearance of sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls.
What Is a SMAS Facelift?
A SMAS facelift is a surgical procedure that removes excess facial fat, skin, and muscle from the lower face and neck. It is typically used to improve the appearance of sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls. However, unlike a deep plane facelift, a SMAS facelift also involves tightening the SMAS layer (a thin layer of connective tissue that lies beneath the skin).
The Differences Between a Deep Plane Facelift and a SMAS Facelift
There are several key differences between a deep plane facelift and a SMAS facelift:
- The depth of the incision: A deep plane facelift involves making a deeper incision than a SMAS facelift. This allows for more extensive tissue removal.
- The approach to tightening the SMAS layer: A SMAS facelift involves drawing the SMAS layer using sutures. A deep plane facelift does not involve tightening the SMAS layer; instead, it relies on undermining (or separating) this layer to achieve results.
- The level of anaesthesia: A deep plane facelift typically requires general anaesthesia, while our surgeons can perform a SMAS facelift using local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia.
- The recovery time: A deep plane facelift typically requires longer time than a SMAS facelift.
- The results: a deep plane facelift produces similar results to a SMAS facelift. The deep plane facelift is more extensive and can carry more risk and a longer recovery. It is advised to discuss the options with our plastic surgeons who will give you honest advice on the best option for your facial structure and skin laxity.
The deep plane technique allows for more natural and effective results by targeting deeper anatomical structures, including the SMAS layer and facial retaining ligaments.
Depth of Dissection
A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that involves dissecting beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer to access the deeper layers of facial tissue. This approach allows for a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the face, addressing the underlying structural issues that contribute to facial ageing. By working at a deeper level, the deep plane facelift can achieve more significant and longer-lasting results compared to a traditional SMAS facelift, which only addresses the superficial layers of the face.
This deeper dissection is a key factor in the effectiveness of the deep plane facelift technique, making it a preferred choice for those seeking extensive facial rejuvenation. The deep plane technique is a key factor in the effectiveness of this approach, allowing for tension-free skin closure and more natural results.
Areas of Focus
The area of focus for a deep plane facelift is the mid-to-lower face, including the cheeks, jowls, and neck. This procedure is designed to restore a more youthful and rested appearance to the face, addressing the signs of aging such as sagging skin, loss of volume, and decreased definition.
The deep plane facelift technique is particularly effective in addressing the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and jowling, which are common concerns for patients undergoing facelift surgery. By targeting these specific areas, the deep plane facelift can provide a more comprehensive and natural-looking rejuvenation. The deep plane technique is particularly effective in addressing these areas, providing significant and long-lasting improvements.
Benefits of Deep Place Facelift - Natural looking results
One of the primary benefits of a deep plane facelift is the natural-looking results it provides. By addressing the deeper layers of facial tissue, this procedure can restore a more youthful and rested appearance to the face without the “pulled” or “windblown” look that can be associated with traditional facelifts.
The deep plane facelift technique is designed to create a more subtle and natural-looking rejuvenation, which is ideal for patients who want to look refreshed and revitalized without appearing “done.” This approach ensures that the facial features are harmoniously enhanced, resulting in a more youthful and balanced appearance that can last for many years. The deep plane technique ensures that the facial features are harmoniously enhanced, resulting in a more youthful and balanced appearance.
Longer Lasting Results
A deep plane facelift is renowned for its ability to deliver longer-lasting results compared to other facelift techniques. By targeting the deeper layers of the face, including the SMAS and platysma muscles, this surgical procedure addresses the root causes of facial ageing rather than just the surface-level symptoms. This comprehensive approach helps restore the natural contours and youthful appearance of the face, resulting in a more refreshed and enduring look.
One of the standout benefits of the deep plane facelift technique is its ability to provide improved facial definition and contours. By repositioning the deeper tissues, the procedure reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhancing overall facial rejuvenation. The results are natural-looking, avoiding the “pulled” or “stretched” appearance often associated with traditional facelifts.
In addition to its longevity, the deep plane facelift offers several other advantages:
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Enhanced facial rejuvenation and restoration
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Natural-looking results that blend seamlessly with your facial features
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Significant improvement in areas like the jowls and neck
Overall, the deep plane facelift is a highly effective surgical procedure that can provide longer-lasting results and a more youthful and natural appearance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking extensive facial rejuvenation.
What to expect from a Deep Plane Facelift
A deep plane facelift is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to reposition the deeper tissues of the face, restoring a more youthful and natural appearance. Typically performed under general anesthesia, the procedure can take several hours to complete.
During the surgery, the surgeon makes incisions in the hairline and around the ears. They then carefully dissect the deeper facial tissues to reposition the SMAS and platysma muscles. Excess skin and tissue are removed to create a more defined and contoured appearance.
Post-surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and following post-operative care instructions. The recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their normal activities within 2-3 weeks.
Key outcomes of a deep plane facelift include:
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A more youthful and natural appearance
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Improved facial definition and contours
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Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
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Enhanced facial rejuvenation and restoration
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Natural-looking results that do not appear “pulled” or “stretched”
Overall, a deep plane facelift is an effective surgical procedure that can provide longer-lasting results and a more youthful and natural appearance, making it a popular choice for those seeking significant facial rejuvenation.
Who is the Best Candidate for these Facelift Procedures?
A deep plane facelift and a SMAS facelift are suitable for anyone looking to reduce signs of ageing. However, they are better suited to patients in good general health and have sagging skin or facial wrinkles.
These procedures target deeper layers of facial anatomy, including the facial muscles, to achieve more natural and long-lasting rejuvenation results. The deep plane technique targets deeper layers of facial anatomy, providing more natural and long-lasting rejuvenation results.
The best age for a deep plane or SMAS facelift is typically between 40-60 years old, although we do operate on older patients in their 70s for facelifts and blepharoplasty.
Regardless of your chosen procedure, it is important to meet with one of our qualified facial plastic surgeon at Kensington Medical to discuss your individual goals and expectations. They can help you determine which approach best suits you facial structure and ensure that you get the results you’re looking for.
FAQs
What is the recovery time for a deep plane or SMAS facelift?
The recovery time for a deep plane facelift surgery is typically 4 to 8 weeks, while the recovery time for a SMAS facelift is shorter, at 2 to 6 weeks. During this period, you may experience swelling and bruising. The deep plane technique allows for tension-free skin closure and provides significant, long-lasting aesthetic improvements. Your surgeon will provide more information on the recovery process, including what to expect in terms of patient sensations post-surgery and how to manage any discomfort.
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Are there any risks associated with a deep plane or SMAS facelift?
Like all surgical procedures, a deep plane face lift or SMAS facelift carries certain risks. These include bleeding, infection, loss of sensation in the face, and nerve damage. Here at Kensington Medical your plastic surgeon will discuss these risks with you in consultation.
Can I combine a deep plane or SMAS facelift with other procedures?
Yes, a deep plane facelift or SMAS facelift can be combined with other facial cosmetic procedures such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lift, neck lift, and fat transfer. Combining these procedures can help you achieve more comprehensive results. It is best to mention this at time of booking your consultation. During your consultation our FRCS plastic surgoesn will examine your face and listen to what you want to achieve. This will ensure they can give you the coirrect treatment plan to achieve the best results.
Which procedure has less scarring?
A SMAS facelift can result in less scarring than a deep plane facelift. However it really does depend on the expertise of your facial plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will make the incision in an area of the face that is not visible, and they will use care to ensure minimal scarring. If you are interested in a facelift the best option will be to discuss what you want to achive. Our plastic surgeons can then advise if a Smas face lift or a deep plane will give you the results you are after.
How long do the results of a deep plane or SMAS facelift last?
A deep plane or SMAS facelift results typically last for 10 to 15 years, depending on your age, skin type, and lifestyle habits. Looking after your skin, wearing a SPF 50 every day, avoiding smoking and drinking too much alcohol, concentrating on a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to maintain your youthful appearance for longer.
Is a deep plane or SMAS facelift right for me?
The best way to find out if a deep plane or SMAS facelift is right for you is to book a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon at Kensington Medical. They can evaluate your specific goals, examine your face and after a discussion with you recommend the best approach for you.
At Kensington Medical, we want to ensure that your facelift experience is safe and successful. Our London based surgeons are highly experienced in performing facelifts and neck lifts and will work with you to help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.
Mr David Gateley is a specialist GMC registered plastic surgeon who has carried out thousands of facial procedures. His experience spans all types of facelifts and neck lifts along with blepharoplasty. He has held a senior position within St. Georges NHS hospital as head of the plastics department and has taught many plastic surgeons.
Mr Amir Sadri is a specialist GMC registered plastic surgeon who specialises in facial plastic surgery. Within his private practice, he focuses on face and nose surgery. He also holds a consultant position for plastic surgery at Great Ormond St children’s hospital in London.
Mr Paul Tulley is specialsist GMC registered Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive, and Cosmetic Surgeon practicing at Kensington Medical in Harley Street, London and the Southeast of the UK. His experience in facial plastic surgery encompasses a comprehensive range of cosmetic surgeries, notably facial rejuvenation procedures such as deep plane.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or phone to find out more.
We look forward to helping you achieve a refreshed and nautural facial result.