What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is the most advanced and comprehensive facelift technique available today. Unlike traditional SMAS lifts that tighten only surface-level tissue, the deep plane facelift repositions the deeper ligaments, muscles, and fat pads beneath the SMAS layer. This allows for more dramatic, natural, and longer-lasting improvements—particularly in the midface, jawline, and neck. At Harmych Facial Plastic Surgery in Cleveland, Dr. Harmych performs the deep plane facelift using a meticulous approach that restores youthful volume and definition without creating a stretched or artificial appearance.
Deep Plane Facelift is one of the most common facelift procedures performed by Dr. Harmych in Cleveland, Ohio. Deep plane facelift tightens and repositions the SMAS tissue (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) or deep tissues (muscle and facia) and skin of the face and neck.
While traditional facelift improves neck definition, jawline contour and nasolabial folds, deep plane facelift involves more extensive repositioning of the midface tissues, allowing for more much better rejuvenation of the midface, cheeks and nasolabial folds.
Deep plane facelift is often the most effective procedure for older patients with more advanced aging. Dr. Harmych uses deep plane facelift technique for most of his facelift procedures, which allows for natural looking, significant and permanent results.
Dr. Harmych uses deep plane facelift technique for all facelift procedures, allowing for improvement beyond the results expected with traditional facelift.
Deep Plane Facelift Benefits
- Improvement of sagging skin in the neck
- Improves jowls and jawline definition to a greater degree
- Superior improvement for the cheeks and nasolabial folds
- Preservation of midface (cheek) volume and shape, without the need for fat grafting
- Improves the lower eyelid and undereye area
- Shorter incisions
Deep Plane Facelift vs. SMAS Facelift
| Deep Plane Facelift | SMAS Facelift | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | Incision often shorter as deep plane facelift relies less on skin removal for improved results | Incisions typical longer than deep plane facelift incisions. |
| Recovery | Often less bruising and swelling as the deeper plane of dissection has a more robust blood supply. | More likely to bruise and swell due to the more superficial plane of dissection. |
| Results | Deep plane facelift results are more profound, with more dramatic improvement in the central face, especially the malar area, cheeks, jowls and nasolabial folds than SMAS facelift. | Modest to moderate improvement in neck, jawline and cheeks. Less significant correction in the malar cheeks, jowls and nasolabial folds. |
| Duration | Results from deep plane facelift lasts much longer than SMAS facelift results. Results are often more natural and more significant. | Results from SMAS, or traditional facelift, are expected to last 10-15 years. |
| Surgical technique | Release of the 4 retaining ligaments of the face and neck allow for more vertical lifting and reduced tension compared to SMAS facelift, resulting in significantly more natural-looking results. | Retaining ligaments are not released and the vector of lifting is more horizontal. |
Deep Plane Facelift Before & After Photos
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Additional deep plane facelift before and after photos can be found here
What are the Different Types of Facelift?
The common types of facelift are:
- Deep Plane Facelift
- SMAS Facelift (includes lateral SMAS facelift and high lateral SMAS facelift)
- Revision Facelift
- Mini Facelift
- Nonsurgical Facelift
Deep Plane Facelift vs. SMAS Facelift: A Surgical Comparison
The primary difference between a deep plane facelift and a SMAS facelift lies in the depth and anatomical plane of dissection. Both techniques target the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), a critical support structure of the face — but they do so with very different approaches and produce very different results.
A SMAS facelift typically addresses the SMAS in a more superficial and lateral fashion, lifting tissue near the ear and closer to the skin’s surface. While this can provide modest improvements in the jawline and lower face, it does not fully correct deeper facial aging — especially in the midface, cheeks, and nasolabial folds.
In contrast, a deep plane facelift involves dissection beneath the SMAS layer, entering a deeper plane closer to the facial muscles. This allows for full release of the facial retaining ligaments and repositioning of the cheek, jowl, and neck tissues. The result is a more natural lift with restoration of youthful facial volume — not just superficial skin tightening.
For patients undergoing an extended deep plane facelift, the procedure is more technically demanding but offers unmatched outcomes. Rather than simply pulling the skin tight, this advanced technique repositions the entire facial structure as a single unit, producing results that are balanced, natural, and long-lasting — without the “overdone” appearance associated with older methods.
Because the deep plane facelift moves the skin and underlying SMAS together, it reduces tension on incisions, improves healing, and preserves facial volume — leading to better scars, faster recovery, and more enduring results.
Deep plane facelift: Key differences
- Deep plane facelift involves release of retaining ligaments
- Less dissection under the skin, therefore, less wound healing issues
- Less tension on the incisions due to complete mobility and elevation of the facial structures
- Improved appearance of the deep plane facelift incisions
- Deep plane facelift restores cheek volume
- Deep plane facelift conserves fat and SMAS tissue, restoring facial volume
- Less recovery time with deep plane facelift
Who is a Candidate for Deep Plane Facelift in Cleveland Ohio?
The best candidates for a deep plane facelift are healthy, non-smoking individuals with realistic expectations and visible signs of facial aging. This advanced surgical technique is ideal for patients with moderate to severe sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck, especially those experiencing jowling or deep nasolabial folds.
Most patients who undergo deep plane facelift surgery are in their 50s to 70s, but younger patients — often in their 40s — may benefit from a less extensive, early maintenance facelift to preserve facial structure and proactively address early aging. The patient may not require a complete extended deep plane procedure yet, but early, strategic repositioning of facial tissues can delay the need for more extensive surgery later on.
Dr. Harmych’s deep plane facelift patients consistently achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results that restore youthful facial contours without the overdone or “pulled” appearance. Although the aging process will continue, patients will always appear younger than if they had not undergone the procedure — making the deep plane facelift one of the most effective and enduring facial rejuvenation options available.
How Is Deep Plane Facelift Surgery Performed?
Deep plane facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia to ensure complete patient comfort and safety. This advanced technique uses carefully hidden incisions placed within the hairline and behind the ears, resulting in natural-looking outcomes with minimal visible scarring.
After making the incisions, a small amount of skin is elevated to access the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system)—the deep connective tissue that supports the facial structure. Dr. Harmych then enters the deep plane, a space beneath the SMAS fascia, typically accessed between the outer corner of the eye and the angle of the jaw.
From there, the facial tissues are precisely released and mobilized toward the nasolabial folds, jowls, and corners of the mouth. This dissection allows for full midface and jawline rejuvenation. By releasing key retaining ligaments, Dr. Harmych is able to reposition the cheeks, jawline, and neck in a way that restores youthful volume and facial harmony.
The SMAS and overlying skin are lifted together as a unit—without placing tension on the skin or incision lines. This tension-free closure promotes better healing, reduced scarring, and more durable results. A soft cotton wrap is applied immediately after surgery to support healing.
For patients seeking more comprehensive rejuvenation, the deep plane facelift can be combined with complementary procedures such as a deep neck lift, neck liposuction, chin augmentation, or jawline contouring. This customized approach allows Dr. Harmych to restore balance and definition across all facial zones.
What to Expect During Deep Plane Facelift Recovery
Recovery after a deep plane facelift is often smoother than traditional facelifts because the skin and SMAS layer are lifted together, minimizing tension on the incisions. Most patients experience mild to moderate swelling and bruising for the first 7 to 14 days. Sutures are typically removed within one week. By the end of week two, most people feel comfortable returning to social activities. While subtle refinements continue for several months, early results are visible within weeks—and the final outcome continues to improve as swelling resolves. Dr. Harmych provides detailed post-operative instructions and close follow-up care to ensure an optimal recovery experience.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Acute recovery phase. Swelling and bruising are most noticeable. Mild to moderate discomfort is typical. Rest is essential. |
| Days 4–7 | Pain begins to improve. Swelling and bruising gradually start to fade. Light movement encouraged, but activity should remain minimal. |
| Days 7–14 | Sutures are removed. Most patients resume light social or non-strenuous work activity. Residual bruising may persist but continues to improve. |
| 3–6 Months | Final results become more refined. Swelling fully resolves. Facial contours settle into their youthful, natural-looking position. |
What is the cost of deep plane facelift in Cleveland Ohio?
The average cost of deep plane facelift is $20,694 with a range of $8,000 to $50,000 according 2023 data from RealSelf.
Dr. Harmych’s deep plane facelift patient can expect the cost to be within this range. The complexity of the case, length of case, additional facial plastic procedures, and type of anesthesia will effect the cost.
The cost can also vary based on geographical location. Other sources consistently report the average cost of deep plane facelift as $20,000 to $30,000.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?
The ideal candidate for a deep plane facelift is a healthy adult with moderate to advanced signs of facial aging—including sagging cheeks, jowls, deep nasolabial folds, and loose skin along the jawline or neck. Most candidates are in their 40s to 70s and are seeking long-lasting facial rejuvenation that cannot be achieved with non-surgical treatments alone.
What distinguishes the deep plane facelift from more limited facelift techniques is its ability to address all three aesthetic subunits of the face—the midface, jawline, and neck—by repositioning the deeper structures beneath the SMAS layer. This makes the procedure especially effective for patients experiencing facial volume descent or soft tissue laxity who want natural results without appearing “pulled” or overcorrected.
Every face ages differently. During the consultation, I evaluate the patient’s facial anatomy, skin quality, goals, and overall health to determine whether a deep plane facelift—alone or in combination with other procedures—will provide the most balanced and durable outcome.
Double board-certified and fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Harmych, is a deep plane facelift specialist in Cleveland, Ohio. His practice is solely dedicated to facial plastic surgery. In fact, facelift, deep plane facelift, deep plane neck lift, mini facelift, and neck lift comprise a large proportion of Dr. Harmych’s facial plastic surgical practice.
Deep Plane Facelift Photos
When reviewing Dr. Harmych’s facelift before and after photos, note that there is often additional improvement in the lower neck, temporal area, lower eyelids, and malar cheeks. This additional improvement is achieved by employing more advanced techniques beyond SMAS facelift and deep plane facelift, or extended deep plane facelift. Dr. Harmych, an experienced deep plane facelift surgeon, will provide you with a thorough assessment of your unique anatomy and explain which facelift procedure would be most appropriate to achieve your goals.
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Read what Dr. Harmych’s deep plane facelift patients say about the experience
Read additional reviews here.
Facial Plastic Surgery in Cleveland, Ohio
Harmych Facial Plastic Surgery performs procedures and treatments on all areas of the face and neck including:
Where should I go for Deep Plane Facelift in Cleveland Ohio?
Harmych Facial Plastic Surgery is located in Beachwood, Ohio. Schedule a consultation at our Beachwood location and see if Facelift is a good option for you.
29225 Chagrin Blvd. #285
Beachwood, Ohio 44122
What About Scarring After a Deep Plane Facelift?
One of the most common questions patients ask is, “Will I have visible scars after a deep plane facelift?” When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Harmych, scarring is typically minimal and discreet. The incisions normally heal very well—and if they weren’t inconspicuous, far fewer patients would elect to have the procedure in the first place.
Deep plane facelift scars are less visible because the skin and SMAS are lifted together, reducing skin tension—the most important factor in scar healing. Incisions are hidden within the natural creases around the ears and hairline. In many cases, hair eventually grows through the incision site for even better concealment.
Dr. Harmych typically recommends medical-grade silicone tape or gel to improve healing and reduce scar thickness. He also emphasizes strict sun protection, since UV exposure can darken scars, especially in patients prone to pigmentation changes.
Scar visibility also depends on factors like skin type, age, genetics, and lifestyle. Patients with darker skin may see more pigmentation, while those with thin or sun-damaged skin may notice prolonged redness.
What to expect:
-
Weeks 1–4: Redness and firmness are normal
-
Months 2–3: Scars flatten and fade
-
By 12 months: Scars are usually soft, pale, and nearly invisible
Every facelift is customized. Dr. Harmych carefully places incisions based on individual features—hair type, hairline, and skin tone—to minimize visibility. Despite being more extensive, deep plane facelift often heals more naturally, with less visible scarring than other facelift techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deep Plane Facelift
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation procedure that lifts the deeper layers of tissue beneath the SMAS layer. By repositioning muscle, fat pads, and connective tissue, it creates natural, long-lasting results—especially in the cheeks, jawline, and neck—without the tight or pulled look of older facelift techniques.
How is a deep plane facelift different from a traditional facelift?
Traditional facelifts primarily pull on the skin or superficial tissue, while a deep plane facelift releases and repositions deeper structures like the SMAS and ligaments. This results in more natural contouring and longer-lasting improvement in the midface and neck.
Who is a good candidate for a deep plane facelift?
Ideal candidates are healthy adults with moderate to advanced signs of facial aging—such as sagging cheeks, jowls, and neck skin—who want long-term, natural-looking improvement. A personal consultation with Dr. Harmych can determine if this technique is right for you.
How long do results from a deep plane facelift last?
Results from a deep plane facelift often last 10 to 15 years. Because the deeper structures are repositioned—not just the skin—the improvement is more durable and ages more naturally over time compared to traditional facelifts.
What is the recovery time after a deep plane facelift?
Most patients can return to light activity within 10–14 days. Dr. Harmych recommends planning for 3 weeks of social downtime following deep plane facelift procedures. Bruising and swelling typically subside over the first few weeks, and final results continue to refine over 3–6 months. Recovery varies depending on individual health and the extent of the procedure.
Is the deep plane facelift safe?
Yes. When performed by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Harmych, the deep plane facelift is a safe, proven technique with low complication rates and high patient satisfaction. Proper surgical planning and technique are essential to minimize risk.
Why don’t all surgeons offer the deep plane facelift?
The deep plane facelift requires advanced anatomical knowledge and refined surgical skill. Some surgeons may not perform it due to limited training, preference, or dogmatic dependence on the outdated or older techniques. Dr. Harmych has specialized training in the deep plane technique to deliver optimal, natural-looking results.
Additional Information on Deep Plane Facelift
- NIH National Instutute of Medicine “Deep Plane Facelift”
- RealSelf “Deep Plane Facelift: What You Need To Know”
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery “Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
- Allure: The Newest Changes to the Facelift Procedure
