"I decided on a deep plane facelift with Kensignton Medical and wish I had done it 3 years earlier when I started to think about it. Just delighted".
At Kensington Medical, we have specialist facial plastic surgeons who are experts in deep plane facelift surgery. For advanced procedures like the deep plane facelift, it is essential to consult with aesthetic plastic surgeons who have the expertise to deliver natural, long-lasting results. There has been a lot of social media information surrounding a deep place facelift. On the right face, the results can be outstanding. The most important aspect of your research is that you consult with a facial plastic surgeon who understands the anatomy and has experience in all forms of facelifts, including a deep plane face lift. Ultimately, you want to be able to decide with your plastic surgeon—ideally an experienced plastic surgeon—on the best type of facelift for your face, as part of the broader facial surgery options available at our clinic.
Facial rejuvenation encompasses a range of cosmetic procedures designed to restore a youthful, refreshed appearance to the face. Facelift procedures are specialized surgical treatments for facial rejuvenation, with several types available to address different needs; among these, the deep plane facelift is considered one of the most advanced facelift procedures. Unlike traditional facelift methods that focus primarily on tightening the superficial layers of the skin, the deep plane facelift procedure targets the deeper facial tissues and muscles. By lifting and repositioning these deeper tissues, this surgical procedure achieves more comprehensive and longer-lasting results. The deep plane facelift is particularly effective for addressing sagging in the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jawline, providing a harmonious and natural-looking facial rejuvenation that enhances your unique features without appearing overdone.
A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure that addresses the deep structures beneath the skin, specifically the deeper facial musculature. The procedure involves repositioning and lifting the deeper tissues, resulting in a comprehensive and natural facelift. The deep plane facelift addresses deep creases and sagging by manipulating the underlying tissues, facial tissue, and facial muscles for comprehensive rejuvenation. This advanced technique targets multiple signs of aging, including loss of facial shape and the presence of deep creases. It is particularly effective for treating deep wrinkles, as it targets the underlying tissues responsible for these structural changes.
We like to describe it by dividing it into a breakdown of processes that include:
Tissue Repositioning:
Unlike traditional facelifts, the deep plane facelift technique involves lifting and repositioning not only the sagging skin but also the deeper layers of facial musculature. The deep plane facelift targets the deeper layer of facial anatomy, including the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), and involves releasing facial ligaments and facial retaining ligaments for a more effective lift. In addition, the procedure repositions the platysma muscle, which enhances results in the lower face and neck by providing better support and rejuvenation. This targeted approach aims to address sagging skin in a more comprehensive manner. Careful attention is paid to avoid injury to facial nerve branches during the procedure.
Fat Repositioning and Sculpting:
In some cases, fat may be repositioned or redistributed to restore volume and achieve a more youthful facial contour. The procedure may involve repositioning the buccal fat pad and addressing excess fat to restore youthful facial shape and volume. This can enhance the natural fullness of the cheeks and midface. We sometimes suggest that fat grafting or fat transfer is a welcome addition to achieve this.
Neck Contouring:
The deep plane facelift can address sagging in the neck by tightening the underlying structures. It also addresses excess skin and redundant skin in the neck and jawline area. This helps improve the definition of the jawline and reduces the appearance of jowls and loose skin in the neck area.
Scarring:
Our specialist facial surgeons aim to make the scars discreet. The scars are hidden within the hairline and around the ear’s natural contours. Over time, they fade, becoming less noticeable.
We believe the ideal patient to undergo facelift surgery will have moderate to severe facial sagging. Lax skin, especially in the forehead and midface regions, is a common sign of facial aging that the deep plane facelift is designed to address. Patients undergoing facelift surgery often present with severe facial ageing or advanced facial ageing changes, making them suitable candidates for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Deep plane facelifts are long lasting, often up to 10 years or longer, although the ageing process does not stop once you have had a facelift. Unlike traditional facelift techniques and the traditional SMAS facelift, which primarily address superficial layers, the deep plane approach targets deeper facial structures and is particularly beneficial for those with more pronounced aging. Following a good diet, sleep, and exercise helps. It targets multiple areas of the face, including the midface and jowls.
The surgery typically involves incisions made along the hairline and around the ear. The surgeon then lifts and repositions the deeper tissues, addressing both skin laxity and the underlying structures for a more holistic result. The deep plane facelift is considered an advanced facelift technique and a form of deep plane surgery among modern surgical procedures for facial rejuvenation. This technique is designed to achieve minimal scarring by careful placement of incisions.
The consultation process is a vital first step for anyone considering facial rejuvenation. During your initial meeting, A GMC Specialist Registered Plastic Surgery or a board certified plastic surgeon will carefully assess your facial anatomy and listen to your goals and expectations. This is your opportunity to discuss the deep plane facelift technique and other facelift surgery options, ensuring you understand the benefits and limitations of each approach. Your surgeon will explain how the deep plane facelift surgery works, what results you can expect, and answer any questions you may have about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. This collaborative approach ensures that your treatment plan is tailored to your requirements, giving you confidence in your decision and peace of mind as you move forward with your facial rejuvenation journey.
"My deep plane facelift is so natural, I am just so delighted with it. I'm now focusing on my health and keeping my face out of the sun. I feel 10 years younger. " Amy
"Kensington Medical helped me look and feel refreshed. I have started wearing my hair up, I haven't done this in years. I've even worn a lower neckline, because I can. Why I waited this long, I just don't know. " Roberta
Prior to surgery, we will give you a full list of what you need to do to be prepared. We ask that someone be able to come with you and take you home.
Organise to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Do not wear makeup or jewellery.
On the day of surgery, to arrive at the hospital a few hours before the procedure. After checking in at the hospital reception, you will meet with your plastic surgeon, the anaesthesia team and the anaesthetist to review the surgical plan and chat with you about any last-minute questions or concerns. It can sometimes be a time of worry; we work hard to relay any concerns, so you feel ready for your exciting journey.
We will have advised on any pre-operative fasting instructions and refrain from taking any medications that may interfere with anaesthesia.
Proper preparation is key to a smooth and successful deep plane facelift recovery. Before your procedure, your surgical team will provide you with detailed instructions to help you navigate the healing process. After your deep plane facelift surgery, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities, manage swelling and bruising as directed, and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for suture removal and wound checks. Protecting your skin from sun exposure is essential to preserve your results and prevent complications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition and hydration, will also support your recovery. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake can further enhance healing and help you achieve the best possible outcome from your deep plane facelift procedure. By following your surgeon’s advice and caring for your skin, you can look forward to a safe recovery and beautiful, long-lasting results.
As with any surgical procedure, deep plane facelift surgery carries potential risks and complications. These may include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, and, in rare cases, facial nerve injury, which can affect muscle movement or sensation. While the deep plane facelift technique is designed to minimize visible scarring by placing incisions along natural facial contours, some scarring is possible.
It is essential to discuss these risks with your GMC Specialist Registered plastic surgeon during your consultation, as their expertise in deep plane facelift surgery can help reduce the likelihood of complications. By carefully following all pre- and post-operative instructions, you can further minimize risks and support a successful, satisfying result from your plane facelift.
We offer specialist facial rejuvenation treatments in the heart of London, Harley Street or Wimbledon. Our team of expert plastic surgeons are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive and personalised experience. Our 5 star hospitals have the experience and quality care. With our expertise in facial cosmetic surgery, we can help you look and feel confident. If you have a special date in mind or event we can work towards those timelines.
Consultation
Your journey begins with a dialogue between you and your surgeon: the pre-operative consultation, which is central to the operation’s success. At Kensington Medical, patients interested in the deep plane facelift technique undergo at least two consultations with the surgeon. We are keen for our patients to be fully informed before deciding whether to proceed with surgery. So, we encourage them to see the surgeon more than once and ask as many questions as they wish. Typically, our patients go through two pre-operative consultations.
The first consultation tends to be face-to-face. During the consultation, the surgeon will:
Listen to your concerns and understand what you would like to achieve;
Examine you;
Show you examples of their work in the form of before-and-after photographs;
Suggest a treatment plan.
Following the first consultation, we will:
Write to you summarising the surgeon’s recommendations;
Quote for the treatment plan suggested by the surgeon;
Send you extensive information about the procedure, the risks involved and the precautions you should take pre- and post-operatively.
A second consultation is often necessary for the following reasons:
After the first pre-operative consultation, and once you have been through the information sent to you, it is likely that you will have more questions for the surgeon.
The surgeon often finds it necessary to speak to patients again to ensure they have fully understood the risks of surgery and they know exactly what to expect from surgery.
It is common that several treatment options are discussed at the first consultation, and another meeting is necessary to decide which is the most appropriate.
The second consultation can also be face-to-face. Alternatively, it can be via a video call.
Following your consultations, our medical team is always available should you have further questions before your surgery.
Pre-Operative Care
Once you have decided to go ahead with surgery, we will book your operation in one of our specialist cosmetic surgery hospitals.
Before your operation, the medical team will send you a health questionnaire. This will be reviewed by your anaesthetist, who may call you to discuss specific aspects of your medical history. In certain cases, you may be required to attend the clinic for blood tests. This will be discussed with you by one of our medical team members before your scheduled appointment date.
We will also issue you with preoperative instructions. In particular:
You should discontinue smoking for several weeks before your facelift, as smoking can increase the risk of complications during the healing process.
You should refrain from taking blood-thinning drugs (such as aspirin) for ten days before your procedure.
You should not eat six hours before surgery; you should not drink two hours before surgery.
On the Day of the Procedure
You will arrive at least one hour before the time of your procedure. The nursing staff at the hospital will monitor your blood pressure and other relevant essentials. You will then meet your anaesthetist and surgeon for a final markup.
The actual operation involves carefully sculpting and repositioning underlying tissue and fat within the face to create a more youthful contour around the eyes, chin, neckline, and jawline area. The result is smoother skin texture while preserving natural facial expressions throughout different movements. The incisions are then closed using sutures. This will leave small scars hidden along areas such as the hairline or scalp, which can fade over time depending on how well they are cared for.
We typically perform this procedure under general anaesthesia. It lasts 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours.
Post-Operative Care
Aftercare following a facelift is essential to ensure we achieve optimal results.
Following your surgery, you will be transferred to the hospital’s recovery room, where the nursing staff will ensure that your recovery is smooth. You should stay there for two to four hours, depending on the surgery. Once the nursing team are happy that you are in a fit state to go home, you will leave the hospital accompanied by a friend or a family member. You should also arrange for someone to stay with you overnight for the first night following your operation. Generally, post-operative pain is minimal, but you will be given painkillers in case you need them.
Once you have been discharged from the hospital, our nursing team will be available 24/7 to ensure your post-operative journey is comfortable and pain-free and to field any questions you may have.
Your surgeon will see you a number of times in the weeks following your operation to monitor the facial skin and scars and to support you:
The next day, the surgeon will remove the drains and check the wounds and dressings.
One week post-operatively, there will be another consultation and depending on your healing progress, the surgeon may decide to remove sutures then.
You will see the surgeon again two weeks post-operatively, at which stage all remaining sutures will be removed and your progress monitored.
The last post-operative consultation is at six weeks. Generally, you will be discharged from the surgeon’s care at that stage.
Regular monitoring and attentive aftercare help ensure optimal deep plane facelift results and high patient satisfaction.
Bruising and swelling can last up to one month following this surgery.
Post-Operative Instructions
Our medical team will provide detailed aftercare instructions based on your current health status and treatment received, including when it is appropriate for you to resume normal activities such as exercise, wearing makeup, and strenuous movements. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications or risks associated with the procedure.
Protecting your face from sun exposure is especially important, as it can cause scarring, discolouration, and other unwanted side effects. Wear sunscreen when outdoors and use hats or umbrellas if possible. It would be best to avoid strenuous activities involving facial movements, such as exercise and sports, until cleared by our medical team at Kensington Medical.
By following the instructions of our medical team and taking precautions to protect your face, you can ensure that you achieve the best results from facelift surgery. Following a healthy lifestyle with sufficient rest, nutrition, and hydration is essential for healing and maintaining long-term effects. It is strongly recommended to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption before and during the recovery period.
Mr David Gateley
Mr Amir Sadri
Mr Paul Tulley
Mr Naveen Cavale
What to expect initially after a Deep Plane facelift?
After a deep plane facelift, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. This will be managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses. It's normal to experience temporary numbness or tightness in the face as the tissues heal and settle into their new position. Understanding that your face needs the time to heal and looking after yourself is important. We usually suggest it is great to have someone around who can give you the warmth and support be it a partner, family member or close friend.
The initial recovery period involves wearing a compression garment to minimise swelling and support the healing tissues. We advise patients that they can resume light activities within a week. However, they should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, resistance training and weights for several weeks. Your surgeon will see you the next day, at day 7 and 6 week follow up. The follow up appointments help the surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
How long does it take to recover after a Deep Plane facelift?
Recovery time can vary but expect initial swelling and bruising to subside within 1 to 2 weeks. Most of our patients can resume normal activities after a couple of weeks. The results continue to improve over a number of months.
If you have a particular date in mind, a wedding, a holiday, a new partner, a birthday celebration or changing jobs, they all require careful planning. We will work hard to get that timing right and consider all health factors, time of year and available down time.
Why is a Deep Plane facelift popular?
The deep plane facelift is popular because it looks to address concerns about skin laxity, fat pad positioning and those seeking a natural looking facelift.
Find out if a deep plane facelift is the best option for you.
Who is not suitable for a Deep Plane facelift?
A patient who has minimal sagging will be advised to have a mini facelift, not a deep plane facelift. A patient with significant medical conditions or unrealistic expectations may not be suitable.
What other names are used for a Deep Plane facelift?
A vertical lift facelift, also known as a vertical facelift or “deep plane vertical facelift,” is a surgical procedure designed to address signs of ageing in the lower face and neck. Unlike traditional facelifts, which focus on horizontal repositioning of tissues, the vertical lift technique involves lifting and repositioning facial tissues vertically, providing a more natural and longer-lasting result.
How long does a Deep Plane facelift last?
Results can last 10 years or more, depending on individual factors. Looking after your health, lifestyle, diet and sleep can make a big difference.
What are the risks associated with a Deep Plane facelift?
As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, scarring, bleeding or hematoma, nerve injury, scarring and asymmetry and anaesthesia related complications.
Ensuring your plastic surgeon understands your health, any conditions you may have, medication you may take and lifestyle factors such as smoking, all play a part in ensuring risk factors are covered in surgery. This will be discussed in your consultation when we take your medical history. Your facial surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation and take steps to minimise any risks.
Preoperative and post operative instructions are supplied and fully explained to minimise risk. If at any time you are feeling worried, or need a question answered, we are here to help before and after the operation.
A deep plane facelift cosmetic surgery procedure at Kensington Medical starts first with a consultation with your plastic surgeon. You will discuss the best facelift options to achieving a more youthful appearance.
Your plastic surgeon will cover all the information which will include a discussion about your facial structure, skin laxity, possible fat removal to the neck and whether neck micro liposuction is required or neck lift surgery and other factors.
We will show you deep plane facelift before and after photos of past patients and time lines can be discussed, along with recovery and facelift surgery results.
Your plastic surgeon will develop a customised plan to help you accomplish what you want to achieve.
Find out more in your personal consultation. A deep plane facelift is a highly successful procedure at Kensington Medical. Consultations can be arranged in our Harley street, London or Wimbledon location.
Medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), GMC number 2939470 on 22 September, 2025.
