Advantages and Disadvantages of Deep Plane Facelift

In this video, Mr Mrinal Supriya explains the main advantages and disadvantages of a deep plane facelift. He outlines how it compares with other facelift methods, why only a few surgeons perform it, and what makes this approach the gold standard for natural results.

Transcript:

We have been talking about deep plane facelifts. There are several types of facelifts, including skin lifts, SMAS lifts, and deep plane facelifts. Deep plane surgery is often considered the best option for people aged 45 and over. Let us look at the advantages and disadvantages of this technique.

The main advantage of a deep plane facelift is that it delivers a very natural lift. You still look like yourself, but fresher, livelier, and more youthful. The results are not artificial or tight, but subtle and refined.

The only real disadvantage arises if the surgery is not performed by a well-trained and experienced surgeon. Deep plane facelift takes longer, requires more advanced skill, and involves working close to the facial nerves. Many surgeons do not feel comfortable operating in this area, which is why a true deep plane facelift is rarely performed.

In fact, many procedures described as facelifts on some surgical websites are not genuine deep plane facelifts. They may only involve tightening the skin or lifting the SMAS layer, which treats only the sides of the face. The result can be less natural and shorter-lasting.

When performed by an experienced facial cosmetic surgeon, the deep plane facelift has minimal risks and produces excellent, long-lasting outcomes. It offers a natural result, a shorter recovery period than most expect, and the lowest likelihood of complications.
As for cost, yes, the deep plane facelift is generally more expensive than other facelift types. This is because the operation takes about twice as long as a skin or SMAS lift and requires significantly greater expertise. It also involves operating close to the nerves that control facial movement, which demands precise training.

Only a small percentage of cosmetic surgeons perform true deep plane facelifts. In the UK, perhaps five to six percent of surgeons who advertise facelift surgery are qualified to perform it. This limited number is largely due to training differences. Traditional plastic surgery training in the UK focuses more on procedures such as breast augmentation or tummy tuck surgery rather than facial rejuvenation.

Even among ENT specialists, opportunities to gain hands-on experience with facial cosmetic surgery are limited. That is why surgeons like myself travel to centres of excellence, such as those in the United States, to train under world-renowned experts in facial surgery.

This advanced training enables us to bring world-class expertise back to the UK. The British Face Clinic was established with this goal in mind — to provide exclusive, high-standard facial cosmetic surgery for patients seeking exceptional, natural results. My practice focuses entirely on the face, allowing me to maintain a high level of specialisation and deliver the best possible outcomes.

Welcome to the British Face Clinic. We understand that making decisions about cosmetic surgery can be difficult and sometimes frustrating. We invite you to give us a call so we can discuss your options and help you decide if we are the right choice for you. Please call us on the number below.