What Is a Deep Plane Facelift and How Does It Treat Sagging in the Midface?

As we age, our faces naturally begin to lose volume and elasticity, particularly in the midface region. Sagging cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, and under-eye hollows can make a person appear older or more fatigued, even if they feel youthful on the inside. Midface sagging is a common concern for many individuals, and it can significantly impact self-confidence.

Facelifts have long been a solution for restoring a youthful appearance, but modern techniques, such as the deep plane facelift, offer superior results. This blog explores how a deep plane facelift works, its benefits, procedure, recovery, and what you can expect from this advanced face-lifting treatment.

Understanding Midface Sagging

Sagging in the midface occurs due to multiple factors:

• Loss of skin elasticity over time
• Displacement or loss of facial fat
• Bone resorption that reduces structural support

Signs of midface sagging include drooping cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, and hollowness under the eyes. These changes can disrupt facial harmony, making the face appear older or tired. Correcting midface sagging can significantly improve one’s overall appearance and self-esteem.

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that targets not just the skin, but also the deeper layers of the face, including muscles and fat pads. Unlike traditional facelifts that lift only the skin, the deep plane approach repositions underlying tissue to provide a natural, long-lasting lift.

Key advantages of a deep plane facelift:

• Longer-lasting results
• Natural facial contours without a tight or pulled appearance
• Comprehensive correction of midface sagging

Ideal candidates include those with moderate to severe midface sagging, early signs of ageing, and a desire for natural results without looking overly “tightened.”

The Deep Plane Facelift Procedure

A deep plane facelift is highly personalised. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation: Your surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, skin quality, and degree of sagging to develop a tailored treatment plan.

Before Surgery:

• Pre-surgical medical evaluation and lab tests
• Instructions on fasting, medications, and pre-op care

Surgical Steps:

1. Anaesthesia: Administered for comfort; usually general anaesthesia
2. Incisions: Made around the hairline and ears, carefully concealed
3. Deep Tissue Lift: The SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer and midface fat pads are lifted and repositioned
4. Skin Redraping: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is smoothed over the repositioned tissues
5. Closure: Incisions are closed with minimal visible scarring

The procedure generally takes 3–5 hours, depending on the extent of sagging. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight observation.

Recovery and Aftercare

After surgery, you may experience mild swelling and bruising, which normally subside within one to two weeks. Here’s a typical recovery timeline:

• First Few Days: Elevate the head while sleeping, avoid strenuous activities
• Week 2: Light activities can resume, follow-up visit with the surgeon
• Weeks 4–6: Swelling reduces, and most normal activities can be resumed
• Long-Term: Final results become apparent after a few months

Following post-operative instructions, wearing compression garments if advised, and avoiding sun exposure are key to optimal healing.

Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift

• Corrects midface sagging naturally and permanently
• Improves facial symmetry and overall appearance
• Minimises the risk of a tight, unnatural look
• Long-lasting results compared to traditional facelifts
• Boosts confidence and self-esteem

Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, deep plane facelifts carry potential risks like any surgery:

• Temporary swelling or bruising
• Minor numbness around incision areas
• Infection or bleeding (rare)
• Importance of choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon

Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift

The cost varies based on:

• Surgeon’s expertise
• Extent of sagging and tissue repositioning required
• Location of the clinic

In India, the typical cost of face lift surgery ranges from Rs. 2,50,000 to Rs. 5,00,000. Investing in an experienced surgeon ensures natural, long-lasting results.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates are:

• People with visible midface sagging
• Those seeking natural and long-lasting rejuvenation
• Healthy individuals without uncontrolled medical conditions
• Patients with realistic expectations of results

In Conclusion

A deep plane facelift is a highly efficacious solution for correcting midface sagging. By repositioning deeper facial tissues rather than lifting only the skin, it provides natural-looking, long-lasting results. This procedure not only restores youthful contours but also enhances facial harmony, giving a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

Discover Your Youthful Contours with Expert Care

If you’re considering a deep plane facelift or other face-lifting treatments, consult with our experts at Velora Face Clinic. We offer personalised consultations, advanced surgical techniques, and proven results to help you achieve a naturally youthful look. Schedule your appointment today and begin your journey toward facial rejuvenation.

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