Understanding Deep Plane Facelift vs Traditional Facelift
If you feel you’re in need of facial rejuvenation, you might be considering a facelift. Before you decide, though, it’s important for you to know the options available to you. There are, of course, numerous non-surgical treatments, from microneedling to fillers and beyond, but when you’re ready to take the plunge and get a facelift, which will offer the most natural looking results? Let’s take a look at deep plane and traditional facelifts, how they differ, and what you can expect from each.
Surgical Techniques Used: Deep Plane Facelift vs SMAS Facelift
SMAS facelifts are also called “traditional” facelifts. SMAS refers to the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, which is the thin layer of muscles and connective tissues under the skin. During a traditional facelift, this layer is gently repositioned and tightened. Then the surgeon removes excess skin and smooths the jawline and lower face. This is a tried and true method that’s been used for decades, and it is an excellent option for patients who want to improve skin laxity and moderate sagging while tightening around the jawline and cheeks. However, while the results can be beautiful, they can also have a pulled or too-tight appearance. This is why deep plane facelifts and other deep layer techniques, which offer softer results, have been growing in popularity. With a deep plane facelift, the surgeon releases and repositions a deeper layer of facial tissues, moving muscles, ligaments, and fat pads. Working on this deeper layer, the surgeon can lift the midface, cheeks, jowls, and jawlines all at once, and this reduces tension on the skin. The result is a more natural looking result, with youthful volume in the cheeks and midface, and less of a pulled look to the skin.
Expected Results and Outcomes
Each type of facelift gives a more youthful appearance. However, the deep plane facelift offers longer-lasting outcomes. While the SMAS facelift results in a more vibrant, refreshed, youthful appearance, the transformation afforded by a deep plane facelift is striking. Deeper facelifts address nasolabial folds, marionette lines, sagging cheeks, heavy jowls, and other signs of aging, and improve the volume under the eyes, in the forehead, and in the temples. The appearance of a deep plane facelift is seamless, and most experts agree that this kind of facelift gives the most natural look.
Recovery Process and Downtime
The deep plane facelift involves deeper tissues but, surprisingly, does not require extensive downtime. Traditional facelifts require about two weeks of healing before returning to normal activities; deep plane facelifts require two to three weeks. Typically, patients feel physically ready to resume normal activities before they feel socially ready and are ready to be seen in public.
Key Differences Between SMAS Facelift Procedure and Deep Plane Facelift Procedures
To properly evaluate each type of facelift procedure, in order to determine which will best meet your needs, consider these factors.
- The level of tissue adjustment is the biggest difference. While the traditional facelift tightens the SMAS layer and the skin, the deep plane facelift repositions deeper connective tissues, along with muscles and ligaments. The benefit of deeper tissue adjustment is that it avoids excess pressure on the skin and allows the face to move more naturally.
- The deep plane technique offers more natural results. Patients are often happier with the look of a deep plane facelift, in which cheeks are naturally lifted, nasolabial folds are softened, and the jawline is better defined. A traditional facelift accomplishes some of this, but with a tighter look that is not as soft.
- Deep plane facelifts last a surprisingly long time. While traditional facelifts provide results that last 7 to 10 years, a deep plane facelift can last 10 to 15 years, or even longer.
- The recovery time is very similar. However, deep plane facelift recovery is sometimes more comfortable, because there is not as much skin tension during healing.
How to Choose the Right Facelift for You
Deciding between these two types of facelifts is largely subjective, as both can offer impressive and long-lasting results. Discuss the benefits of each procedure with your doctor, in order to determine which one best aligns with your specific needs and goals. Deep plane facelifts offer a more foundational change, but SMAS adjustments offer targeted refinement. Many patients go for the “wow” factor of a deep plane facelift, but many others choose SMAS for a smaller adjustment. A traditional facelift can meet the needs of someone with mild to moderate aging concerns, while the deep plane facelift is better for combatting advanced aging and providing natural, long-lasting results.
Considering a Facelift? Contact Kevin R. Hanz MD Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Choosing between different types of facelifts is a significant decision, but whenever you’re considering a cosmetic procedure in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, look for guidance from the practice trusted across the area for excellent care and exceptional results. The team at Dr. Kevin Hanz MD, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has over 20 years of experience, and we offer a wide range of services, from personalized plastic surgery to advanced non-surgical treatment. Led by the talented Dr. Kevin Hanz, a recognized expert in plastic surgery, we provide cutting-edge treatments like liposuction, Mommy Makeover, facelift surgery, breast augmentation, and non-surgical aesthetic procedures, including injectables. Contact us for a complimentary consultation, where you can learn more about the personalized options we recommend for you.