Deep Plane Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy): The Ultimate Guide

• December 31, 2024
• Mr Mrinal Supriya

Last updated on December 11, 2024

A deep plane facelift, or rhytidectomy, is an advanced surgical procedure designed to provide a natural and long-lasting facial rejuvenation.

Unlike traditional facelifts that focus on tightening only the skin, the deep plane facelift repositions the deeper facial tissues, including muscles and connective structures. This approach effectively lifts sagging cheeks, smooths deep nasolabial folds, and refines the jawline, all while maintaining a natural appearance.

The deep plane facelift is particularly transformative, restoring youthful facial contours without placing undue tension on the skin. This technique ensures your expressions remain authentic and avoids the artificial, overly tight look often associated with more superficial facelift methods.

Whether you’re considering rejuvenating your jawline or addressing sagging mid-face tissues, this guide covers everything you need to know about the deep plane facelift. From understanding the procedure’s benefits and potential risks to what to expect during recovery, we’ll help you make an informed decision.

The Pros and Cons of Having a Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift provides several advantages, making it one of the most effective methods for facial rejuvenation. The primary benefit is its ability to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results. By lifting and repositioning the deeper facial layers, the procedure creates a harmonious, youthful appearance without distorting your facial features.

The results from a deep plane facelift can last for several years, offering a significant return on investment for those seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation. This technique also addresses multiple signs of ageing in one procedure, making it ideal for those with pronounced sagging in the mid-face, jawline, and neck.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The deep plane facelift is a more complex surgery and requires a highly skilled and experienced facial surgeon.

The recovery period is typically longer than that of less invasive facelift options, with bruising and swelling lasting several weeks. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, nerve injury, and scarring, although these are rare when performed by an expert.

Read more about the pros and cons of having a Deep Plan Facelift

How Much Does a Deep Plane Facelift Cost?

The cost of a deep plane facelift varies significantly based on several key factors, including the location of the clinic, the complexity and duration of the surgery, and whether any additional procedures are required to achieve optimal results.

At British Face Clinic, the cost of a comprehensive deep plane facelift package typically ranges between £15,000 and £25,000, depending on individual patient needs.

It is also important to note that most cosmetic surgical procedures, including deep plane facelifts, are not covered by insurance. This makes the financial commitment a significant consideration for many patients.

At British Face Clinic, we understand that the cost can be a burden, which is why we offer flexible payment plans and can provide information on options like a care credit card to make the procedure more financially manageable.

When considering a deep plane facelift, it is crucial to prioritise the surgeon’s skill and experience over cost. Opting for a highly qualified facial surgeon can minimise risks and ensure that the results look natural and are long-lasting.

A deep plane facelift is an investment in your appearance and confidence, with results that can last for several years, making it well worth the expense for many patients.

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What is the Ideal Age to Have a Deep Plane Facelift

While there is no universally perfect age for a deep plane facelift, most patients choose to undergo the procedure between the ages of 40 and 60, when the visible signs of ageing—such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls—start to become more pronounced.

This is the period when facial skin loses its natural elasticity, and the underlying muscle structure begins to weaken, making a facelift an ideal solution for restoring a youthful appearance.

However, age alone is not the sole determining factor for whether someone is a good candidate for facelift surgery. Other key considerations include skin elasticity, bone structure, and overall health. Patients with good skin elasticity tend to have better outcomes, as their skin can more easily adapt to the repositioning during the procedure. Additionally, a strong underlying bone structure supports the best possible results, helping to maintain facial harmony post-surgery.

It’s not uncommon for some individuals to opt for a facelift in their 30s or early 40s, especially if they’re noticing early signs of ageing or experiencing genetic factors that contribute to premature ageing.

Others may wait until later in life, choosing to undergo surgery in their 60s or even 70s. The most important aspect is that the patient is in good health and has realistic expectations about the outcomes.

A consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon is essential to determine the right time for a deep plane facelift, ensuring the procedure aligns with your unique ageing process and aesthetic goals.

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Types of Facelifts

Facelift surgery comes in various forms to address different ageing concerns. The traditional facelift focuses on tightening the skin and repositioning underlying muscles in the lower face and neck, effectively reducing deep wrinkles, sagging, and jowls. While this approach offers dramatic, short lasting results, it does not lift the deeper facial structures as thoroughly as the deep plane facelift.

The deep plane facelift is considered the most superior option, as it repositions and releases deeper facial tissues, creating natural and long-lasting rejuvenation without a “tight” or artificial look. This technique effectively smooths nasolabial folds, lifts sagging cheeks, and redefines the jawline, offering unparalleled, comprehensive results.

For those with milder signs of ageing, a mini-facelift may be appropriate, using smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period. Alternatively, non-surgical treatments like thread lifts or dermal fillers provide temporary, subtle improvements but lack the enduring impact of surgical options.

Ultimately, choosing the right procedure depends on your needs, skin condition, and aesthetic goals. A consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable approach, ensuring you achieve natural and satisfying results tailored to your unique facial structure.

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Deep Plane Facelift: Recovery, Risks and Results

Recovering from a deep plane facelift typically takes several weeks, with the initial results becoming visible after just one week. During this time, you may experience significant swelling, bruising, and a tight sensation in your skin. These symptoms gradually subside, and by the second or third week, most patients feel comfortable resuming light activities and even returning to work.

Full recovery can take 2 to 3 months, with all residual swelling dissipating to reveal the final, natural-looking results. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, which may include keeping your head elevated, applying cold compresses, and avoiding strenuous activities. Protecting your skin from direct sunlight is also important to support proper healing.

As with any surgical procedure, a deep plane facelift carries some risks, including infection, scarring, and the rare possibility of nerve injury. However, these risks are minimised when performed by an experienced and skilled surgeon. The results of a deep plane facelift are natural-looking and long-lasting, with many patients enjoying their youthful appearance for several years.

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If you still have questions, then reach out to the team at British Face Clinic for help.