Deep Plane Facelift and Traditional Facelift: Assessment, Planning and Recovery Considerations

Facelift surgery is not a single procedure performed in the same way for every patient. Different surgical approaches may be discussed depending on a person’s anatomy, medical history, skin quality, tissue position, previous surgery, healing factors, and suitability for surgery.

A deep plane facelift and a traditional facelift are two surgical approaches used in facial surgery. The suitability of either approach can only be assessed after consultation and examination. This article explains general anatomical and planning differences. It is not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

What is a traditional facelift?

The term “traditional facelift” may be used in different ways. In many contexts, it refers to a facelift approach that involves work around the skin and superficial musculoaponeurotic system, often referred to as the SMAS layer.

The exact surgical plan varies between patients. Factors that may influence planning include facial tissue position, skin quality, previous procedures, scarring, medical history, smoking or vaping status, medications, and individual anatomy.

A consultation is required to explain which approach is being discussed and whether surgery is suitable.

What is a deep plane facelift?

A deep plane facelift is a surgical approach that involves dissection in a deeper anatomical plane. In this technique, the surgeon works beneath the SMAS layer and releases selected retaining ligaments so that deeper facial tissues can be repositioned.

This does not mean the procedure is suitable for every patient. It also does not mean that the outcome, recovery, scar visibility, or complication risk can be predicted from the technique alone. The appropriate surgical approach depends on individual assessment.

How do the approaches differ?

The main difference is the anatomical plane in which the surgery is performed.

In a traditional facelift, surgical treatment may focus on the skin, SMAS layer, or both, depending on the technique being used. In a deep plane facelift, the dissection is performed beneath the SMAS layer and may involve release of deeper retaining structures.

Both approaches are surgical procedures. Both require careful patient selection, operative planning, anaesthesia, wound care, and recovery time. A consultation is required to discuss whether facelift surgery is appropriate, which technique may be considered, and what alternatives may be available.

No surgical technique should be described as generally superior for all patients. The appropriate approach depends on the individual patient’s anatomy, health status, goals for discussion, and clinical suitability.

Factors considered during surgical planning

Surgical planning may include assessment of:

• facial anatomy and tissue position
• skin quality and elasticity
• lower face and neck anatomy
• hairline position and incision planning
• previous facial surgery or scarring
• medical history and medications
• smoking or vaping history
• healing factors
• anaesthetic considerations
• recovery needs and available support after surgery
• the patient’s reasons for seeking information about surgery

A practitioner should also discuss non-surgical alternatives, the option of not proceeding with surgery, and procedure-specific risks.

Recovery after facelift surgery

Recovery after facelift surgery varies between individuals. Swelling, bruising, tightness, discomfort, altered sensation, and temporary changes around incision sites can occur. The time needed to return to work, exercise, driving, and usual activities depends on the extent of surgery, whether other procedures are combined, individual healing, and the treating practitioner’s post-operative advice.

Some patients may require longer recovery than expected. Follow-up appointments are important so that healing, incision sites, facial nerve function, and any concerns can be assessed.

Patients should not rely on general recovery timelines alone. Personalised recovery advice should be provided during consultation and after surgery.

Scarring and incision planning

Facelift surgery involves incisions, and scars are an expected part of surgery. Incision placement depends on the surgical plan and the patient’s anatomy. Scar appearance varies between individuals and may be affected by skin type, genetics, wound healing, smoking or vaping, infection, tension on the wound, and post-operative care.

No practitioner can guarantee how a scar will heal or how visible it will be over time.

Risks of facelift surgery

All surgery has risks. Risks of facelift surgery may include, but are not limited to:

• bleeding or haematoma
• infection
• scarring
• delayed wound healing
• pain or discomfort
• bruising and swelling
• altered sensation or numbness
• facial nerve injury
• asymmetry
• hairline or skin changes near incision sites
• skin loss or wound breakdown
• changes in ear or hairline position
• anaesthetic complications
• dissatisfaction with the outcome
• need for revision surgery

Rare but serious complications can occur. Personal risk factors should be discussed with the treating practitioner before deciding whether to proceed.

Suitability and decision-making

A consultation is required to assess whether facelift surgery is appropriate. The consultation should include discussion of the patient’s reasons for seeking information about surgery, medical history, risks, recovery, alternatives, costs, and the option of not proceeding with surgery.

Surgery should not be presented as a way to achieve a particular social, emotional, or psychological outcome. Individual experiences vary, and surgery may not address broader concerns about appearance, self-image, confidence, relationships, work, or wellbeing.

Patients should have adequate time to consider the information provided before deciding whether to proceed.

Consultation and further information

A consultation with Dr Adam Honeybrook can be used to discuss facelift surgery, available surgical options, risks, recovery, alternatives, and whether surgery is suitable for your circumstances.

Dr Adam Honeybrook is a registered medical practitioner with specialist registration in Surgery – Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Registration number: MED0001602935.

To contact the practice, call:

• New patients: 07 3485 0596
• Existing patients: 07 3488 8118

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