Is a Deep Plane Facelift Right for You?
A deep plane facelift is designed for patients whose signs of aging come from descent of the deeper facial tissues, not just changes in the skin. You may be a good candidate if several of the following feel familiar:
- Your jawline has lost definition, with jowls forming along the lower face.
- The cheeks have descended, deepening the folds between the nose and mouth.
- Loose skin and banding have developed in the neck.
- You want a result that looks rested and natural rather than pulled or windswept.
- You are in good general health, do not smoke, or are willing to stop well before and after surgery.
- You have realistic expectations and want a long-term approach rather than a quick fix.
A facelift is not the right answer for everyone. If your concerns are limited to skin texture, fine lines, or mild volume loss, non-surgical treatments or a smaller procedure may be more appropriate. Part of every consultation is deciding honestly whether surgery is warranted at all.
What the Procedure Involves
Every facelift is planned around the individual face, but most deep plane procedures follow a similar sequence. The surgery usually takes several hours, depending on whether other areas are treated at the same time.
Anesthesia and preparation
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation in an accredited surgical setting in Sarasota. Markings are made in advance, based on the plan agreed during your consultation.
Discreet incisions
Incisions are generally placed in front of and behind the ear, following natural creases and the hairline so they can heal as inconspicuously as possible. A small incision beneath the chin may be added when the neck requires direct attention.
Release beneath the SMAS
Rather than lifting skin alone, the surgeon works beneath the SMAS, the layer of muscle and connective tissue that supports the face. Key ligaments that tether the cheek and jowl are released so these tissues can move as one unit.
Repositioning, not stretching
The released tissues are lifted back toward their earlier position and secured. Because the deeper layer carries the lift, the skin can be redraped without excessive tension, which helps avoid a tight or artificial look.
Closure and dressing
Excess skin is trimmed conservatively and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. A light dressing is applied, and in some cases small drains are placed for a short time.
Complementary procedures
Some patients combine a facelift with a neck lift, eyelid surgery, brow lift, or fat grafting. Whether that is appropriate is discussed individually and is never assumed.
Recovery Timeline
Healing is individual, and the timeline below is a general guide rather than a promise. You will receive specific instructions and be seen regularly during your recovery.
Day 1
Rest at home with your head elevated. Expect swelling, tightness, and some discomfort, managed with prescribed medication. A responsible adult should stay with you.
Week 1
Swelling and bruising are usually at their most visible early in the week, then begin to ease. Dressings and any drains are removed, and you will have a follow-up visit. Short walks are encouraged.
Week 2
Sutures are typically removed by this point. Many patients feel comfortable running errands, and some return to desk work, though residual swelling and numbness are normal.
Month 1
Most visible bruising has resolved and you look increasingly like yourself. Light exercise may resume once cleared. Some firmness and altered sensation can persist.
Month 3
The majority of swelling has settled and the contours of the jawline and neck become clearer. Incisions continue to soften and fade.
Month 6
Subtle residual swelling has largely resolved and the result is closer to its settled form. Scars keep maturing over the following months.
What a Deep Plane Facelift Costs
Because every facelift is tailored, the cost is set after a consultation, once your anatomy and goals are understood. The overall fee typically reflects:
- The extent of the surgery, including whether the neck is addressed at the same time.
- Any additional procedures, such as eyelid surgery, brow lift, or fat grafting.
- Anesthesia fees and the surgical facility in Sarasota.
- The surgeon’s training and the time devoted to planning and follow-up care.
Cosmetic facelift surgery is generally not covered by insurance. You will receive a detailed, written quote after your consultation, so there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a deep plane facelift different from a traditional facelift?
A deep plane facelift lifts the deeper supporting layer of the face, not just the skin. Releasing the ligaments beneath the SMAS allows the cheeks, jowls, and jawline to be repositioned together, which tends to look more natural than tightening skin alone.
Will I look like a different person?
The goal is to look like a rested version of yourself, not someone new. Because tissues are repositioned rather than pulled, your expressions and character should remain your own.
How long does a deep plane facelift last?
A facelift does not stop the aging process, but it resets the clock on the structures it addresses. How long the result lasts depends on your anatomy, skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle, which Dr. Patete will discuss with you during your consultation.
Where are consultations and surgery performed?
Consultations take place at the Della Forma office in Venice, Florida. Surgery is performed in Sarasota, Florida.
How much time should I take off work?
Many patients plan for about two weeks before returning to work or social settings. Your own timeline depends on how you heal and the nature of your work.
Will there be visible scars?
All surgery leaves scars, but facelift incisions are placed along natural creases around the ear and within or along the hairline. With time and proper care, they are usually discreet.
Am I too young or too old for a facelift?
There is no single right age; candidacy depends on your anatomy, health, and goals rather than the number of years. During consultation, Dr. Patete may also recommend a less invasive option if it would serve you better.
What are the risks?
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, scarring, and reactions to anesthesia, among others. These are reviewed in detail during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Medically reviewed by Carissa Patete, MD, plastic surgeon. Last reviewed: October 2026.