What is Deep Plane Face Lift?

Objectives and indications

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

• Reposition sagging facial and neck muscles,
• Tighten the skin without a frozen effect,
• Reduce excess fat (chin, neck, cheeks) or fill lost volume,
• Restore a rested, natural and refreshed look, faithful to the appearance of a decade ago.

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: in-depth discussions with the surgeon to determine expectations and propose an appropriate strategy.

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

Preoperative instructions :

• Do not take aspirin or anticoagulants for 3 weeks prior to surgery.
• Total smoking cessation at least one month before and 15 days after surgery.
• Hair washed and make-up removed on D-day.
• Fasting 6 hours before surgery.

Terms and conditions of operation

Hospital stay: usually 24 to 48 hours.

Type of anesthesia: 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 hair (temples and nape of the neck) and around the ear. The surgeon then removes the skin to gain access to the deeper structures. The musculoaponeurotic plane is precisely repositioned, then the skin is re-draped naturally, without excessive tension.

As 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: deep plane face lift in men

Post-operative care

The aftermath is generally straightforward:

• Edema and ecchymosis appear in the days that follow, especially around the neck and chin.
• A feeling of tension or tightness is common in the first few days.
• Temporary discomfort of sensitivity in the cheeks or ears may persist for several weeks.
• Typical evolution :
• Presentable to relatives after 5-6 days,
• Socially presentable around 12 days,
• Discreet in public after 3 to 4 weeks.

Expected results

Durability and additional maintenance

Possible imperfections or limitations

• Slight, persistent edema may require lymphatic massage,
• Partial recovery of sagging in certain areas that were initially very depressed,
• Visible scars or localized alopecia in incision areas (rare, but sometimes corrected secondarily).

Risks and complications

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

• Post-operative hematomas (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 risks and ensure rigorous follow-up in the event of unforeseen circumstances.