Pros and Cons of Having Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

• November 26, 2024
• Mr Mrinal Supriya

Last updated on December 3, 2024

Deep plane facelift surgery, medically known as rhytidectomy, remains one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for reversing the visible signs of ageing.

While deep plane facelift surgery can enhance the appearance of the face and neck, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of deep plane facelift surgery, helping you decide if a deep plane facelift surgery is right for you. Our expert, Mr Supriya from British Face Clinic explains the pros and cons in this article.

Pros of a Deep Plane Facelift Surgery: 

1. Long-Lasting Results

One of the benefits of deep plane facelift surgery is its durability. Compared to non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers or thread lifts, which require ongoing maintenance, a surgical facelift offers results that last for several years.

This makes the procedure an attractive option for those looking for a long-term solution to sagging skin and deep wrinkles.

• Results can last for years, providing a long-term improvement.

• Requires less frequent touch-ups than non-surgical treatments.

2. Natural-Looking, Youthful Appearance

A properly executed surgical facelift by experienced plastic surgeons can result in a naturally refreshed look.

The procedure targets loose and sagging SMAS and Platysma, smoothing out deep wrinkles and lifting jowls, especially in the lower face and neck, while maintaining your facial expressions and avoiding an “overdone” look.

• Reduces deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and jowls.

• Provides a rejuvenated, yet natural appearance without compromising facial expressions.

3. Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem

For many, the most profound benefit of a facelift is the boost in self-confidence that comes from achieving a younger, fresher appearance. A facelift can enhance how you feel about your looks, impacting both personal and professional life in positive ways.

• Many patients report feeling more youthful and confident.

• The emotional and psychological benefits can be long-lasting.

4. Addresses Multiple Ageing Concerns at Once

Facelifts are comprehensive, as they do more than just tighten the skin. They can also reposition facial deep tissues and Platysma, address excess skin and lift underlying tissues.

A deep plane facelift procedure specifically targets these deeper layers, making it one of the few treatments that effectively addresses both surface-level concerns and deeper structural issues in the face. 

• Treats both skin and underlying facial muscles.

• A deep plane facelift procedure provides a more comprehensive solution to ageing than surface-level treatments.

5. Minimal Scarring

Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, modern deep plane facelift surgery results in minimal scarring, with incisions typically hidden along the hairline and behind the ears. Over time, these scars fade significantly, becoming nearly invisible.

• Advanced techniques reduce visible scarring.

• Scars are strategically placed and fade over time.

6. Customisation

Deep plane facelift surgery is highly customisable to address specific concerns. Mr Supriya can tailor the procedure to meet individual needs, whether focusing on the full face and neck or targeting specific areas of concern, like the lower face or jawline.

• Tailored procedures can address individual concerns.

• Focus can be on specific areas or a full facial rejuvenation.

7. Complementary Procedures

Facelift surgery can easily be combined with other cosmetic treatments, such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or a  brow lift.  This allows for a more comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation, offering patients a balanced, harmonious appearance.

• Can be combined with treatments like a lip lift, brow lift or eyelid surgery. Most cases may also need liposuction or targeted fat injection. Mr Supriya may also carry out skin treatment e.g. TCA peel or dermabrasion for further improvement.

• Aids in achieving more comprehensive and balanced facial rejuvenation.

Cons of Facelift Surgery: 

1. Extended Recovery Time

The recovery process after a surgical procedure such as a facelift can be lengthy. Most patients experience swelling and bruising for the first two to three weeks, and it may take a few months for the final results to become fully visible.

During this time, you’ll need to follow strict post-surgical care instructions and avoid strenuous activities.

It is important to note, however, that with deep plane face lift surgery, targeted tissue release in a deep plane facelift limits surgical dissection while achieving a significant lift, resulting in less trauma, swelling and bruising, thereby a quicker and less painful recovery. 

• Swelling and bruising may last for several weeks.

• Full recovery and final results can take months.

2. Surgical Risks

As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved with deep plane facelift surgery. These risks include infection, scarring, and nerve damage. Although complications are rare, it’s essential to consider these risks and discuss them thoroughly with your surgeon during your consultation.

• Risks include infection, scarring, and nerve damage.

• Discuss your medical history with Mr Supriya to minimise risks.

3. Does Not Address All Ageing Concerns

While a facelift targets sagging skin and deep wrinkles, it does not treat fine lines, volume loss, or skin texture issues like hyperpigmentation.

Additional procedures such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or dermal fillers may be necessary to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

• A facelift does not address fine lines, volume loss, or skin texture.

• Additional treatments may be needed for optimal results.

4. Cost of Surgery

A deep plane facelift surgery is a significant financial investment depending on the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional treatments or complementary procedures (e.g., brow lifts, neck lifts) required. 

• Facelift surgery is more expensive than non-surgical options.

• The overall cost can increase with additional treatments.

5. Temporary Discomfort and Inconvenience

Post-surgical discomfort is common after a facelift. While pain is generally mild and manageable with pain medication, the temporary swelling, bruising, and tightness can be inconvenient. Patients often need to plan for a recovery period away from work and social activities.

• Recovery can involve discomfort, swelling, and bruising.

• Patients typically need to take time off from work and social engagements.

How to schedule a consultation

To schedule a consultation to discuss a rhinoplasty procedure, you can either call us on 07590817036, book online via our website, schedule a video consultation or visit us at one of our clinics in London, Milton Keynes, or Northampton.

FAQs

What are the main pros and cons of having deep plane face lift surgery? 

Pros: Deep plane facelift surgery provides long-lasting results, significantly reducing the appearance of loose skin, sagging skin, and deep wrinkles. The procedure can dramatically improve your overall appearance, boosting self-confidence. It is especially effective for tightening facial tissues and restoring a youthful look.

Cons: Deep plane facelift surgery involves a recovery period that can last several weeks, with swelling and bruising common during the initial stages. It does not address fine lines or volume loss, meaning additional treatments like dermal fillers may be required for full rejuvenation. It’s also important to note that a true deep plane composite facelift is offered only be a handful of surgeons in UK.

How does deep plane facelift surgery affect facial features? 

Pros: A deep plane facelift surgery can enhance facial features by creating a smoother, more youthful contour. It focuses on tightening sagging areas, especially around the jawline and neck, leading to a more balanced and refreshed appearance.

Cons: There is a risk of over-tightening or creating an unnatural look if the procedure is not performed by a skilled cosmetic surgeon. Additionally, while deep plane facelift surgery improves certain aspects, it doesn’t alter other features like the eyes or forehead, which may require additional procedures.

What are the pros and cons of a deep plane facelift procedure in terms of recovery? 

Pros: After the healing process, the results are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying the benefits of the procedure for years. The investment in recovery time pays off with significant improvements in skin firmness and youthful appearance.

Cons: Recovery can take weeks, during which time patients must manage swelling, bruising, and discomfort. You’ll also need to refrain from certain activities during this period, and the downtime can be a major consideration for some individuals.

Can deep plane facelift surgery be customised and what are the pros and cons of this? 

Pros: Yes, facelift surgery is highly customisable. Mr Supriy can tailor the procedure to target specific areas of concern, such as the neck, lower face, or jawline. This customisation leads to more natural results that align with each patient’s unique goals.

Cons: Customisation often increases the complexity of the surgery, which can lead to longer recovery times and higher costs. Additionally, combining a facelift with other procedures like a neck lift or eyelid surgery may increase the risks involved.

What are the pros and cons of combining deep plane facelift surgery with non-surgical techniques? 

Pros: Combining deep plane facelift surgery with non-surgical facelifts or treatments like Fat injection, dermal fillers or TCA peel/laser therapy can provide a more comprehensive result. These complementary treatments address concerns that a facelift doesn’t, such as fine lines or volume loss.

Cons: The other cosmetic procedures come with extra costs, and non-surgical procedures may require ongoing maintenance, which could mean more frequent visits to the clinic. While a deep plane facelift surgery is permanent, non-surgical options offer temporary results that need to be revisited regularly.