Deep Plane Face Lift: Oval and Neck

The deep plane face lift of the oval and neck is a surgical rejuvenation technique targeting the lower part of the face and the neck. Unlike more superficial facelifts, it acts deep in the muscular and fatty tissues to reposition sagging structures without pulling excessively on the skin. The aim is to restore the natural harmony of the face without altering its features.

What is a deep plane face lift?

The deep plane face lift of the oval and neck is a surgical rejuvenation technique targeting the lower part of the face and the neck. Unlike more superficial facelifts, it acts deep in the muscular and fatty tissues to reposition sagging structures without pulling excessively on the skin. The aim is to restore the natural harmony of the face without altering its features.

Objectives and indications

This procedure is intended for patients with sagging skin along the oval of the face, jowls or neck, generally from the age of 40 to 45. It aims to:

• Reposition sagging facial and neck muscles,
• Tighten the skin without a frozen effect,
• Reduce excess fat (chin, neck, cheeks) or restore lost volume,
• Restore a rested, natural and refreshed appearance, true to how the face looked a decade earlier.

The deep plane face lift does not act on superficial wrinkles (expression lines, crow's feet, lip contours), which can be treated by complementary methods.

Before the operation: preparation

Pre-operative consultation: a detailed discussion with the surgeon to establish expectations and propose a suitable strategy.

Medical check-up: the prescribed tests and the compulsory anaesthetic consultation (at least 48 hours before the procedure).

Pre-operative instructions:

• No aspirin or anticoagulants in the 3 weeks before surgery.
• Complete cessation of smoking at least one month before and 15 days after surgery.
• Hair washed and make-up removed on the day.
• Fasting for 6 hours before surgery.

How the operation is carried out

Hospital stay: usually 24 to 48 hours.

Type of anaesthesia: general, or local with deep sedation.

Duration: between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Surgical procedure

The procedure begins with discreet incisions in the hairline (temples and nape of the neck) and around the ear. The surgeon then lifts the skin to reach the deeper structures. The musculoaponeurotic plane is repositioned precisely, then the skin is redraped naturally, without excessive tension.

Where required:

• Liposuction is performed to refine certain areas.
• Lipostructure (injection of autologous fat) can be used to restore volume.
• At the end of the procedure, a light dressing is applied around the head.

Special case: the deep plane face lift in men

Male skin is thicker and more vascularised, which calls for specific technical adjustments. The surgeon also takes hair density into account in order to conceal the scars as well as possible.

Post-operative care

Recovery is generally straightforward:

• Swelling and bruising appear in the following days, particularly around the neck and chin.
• A feeling of tension or tightness is common in the first few days.
• Temporary altered sensitivity in the cheeks or ears may persist for several weeks.
• Typical course:
• Presentable to close family after 5 to 6 days,
• Socially presentable around 12 days,
• Discreet in public after 3 to 4 weeks.

Expected results

The first effects are visible from the end of the second week, but optimal results can be appreciated between 1 and 3 months. Scars gradually fade and become almost concealed around the sixth month. The face regains its volume, tone and definition, without losing its natural expression. The procedure offers a subtle but real "rejuvenating" effect, with a positive impact on self-confidence.

Durability and maintenance

The deep plane face lift slows ageing without halting it. It is often effective for 8 to 12 years. Lighter procedures (peels, injections, radiofrequency and others) can be offered as maintenance to prolong its effects and postpone the need for a further facelift.

Possible imperfections or limitations

• Slight persistent swelling may require lymphatic drainage massage,
• Partial return of sagging in areas that were very slack to begin with,
• Visible scars or localised alopecia in the incision areas (rare, but sometimes corrected in a second procedure).

Risks and complications

Although this surgery has long been codified and practised, it remains a medical procedure. Complications are rare but possible:

• Post-operative haematomas (which may require drainage),
• Skin necrosis (particularly in smokers),
• Rare but possible infections,
• Temporary facial nerve damage (rare cases),
• Hypertrophic scars or keloids.

Choosing a qualified surgeon experienced in this technique is the best way to limit the risks and to ensure rigorous follow-up should anything unexpected occur.