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Lift and Tighten Deeper Facial Structures

A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that goes beyond lifting just the skin. It targets the deeper facial structures, specifically the muscle and fat layers, to provide a more comprehensive and long-lasting rejuvenation. By repositioning the underlying tissues, the deep plane facelift restores volume and contour to areas like the midface and jawline. This technique addresses sagging skin, deep folds around the nose and mouth, and jowls more effectively than traditional facelifts. The result is a more natural, youthful appearance without the “pulled” look.

Dr. Stein meeting with a patient about a deep plane facelift in Raleigh

What a Deep Plane Facelift Can Do for You

A deep plane facelift offers transformative results by addressing multiple signs of aging in the face and neck. This procedure goes deeper than traditional facelifts, providing a more natural, youthful appearance. Here’s what a deep plane facelift can treat:

  • Sagging skin in the midface and jawline
  • Deep nasolabial folds around the nose and mouth
  • Jowls and loss of definition in the jawline
  • Hollow cheeks and loss of facial volume
  • Loose or sagging skin in the neck
  • Marionette lines extending from the corners of the mouth
  • Drooping or displaced fat pads in the cheeks
  • Overall facial drooping caused by weakened underlying facial muscles

Am I A Candidate For A Deep Plane Facelift?

You may be a good candidate for a deep plane facelift if you are experiencing significant facial aging, such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, or loss of volume in the midface. This procedure is ideal for individuals looking for long-lasting, natural results that address deeper facial structures. You should also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes.

Before undergoing surgery, you must meet certain medical requirements. You should be a non-smoker, free of any serious health conditions that could interfere with healing, and have no history of uncontrolled bleeding disorders. Dr. Stein will thoroughly evaluate your facial anatomy, health history, and goals to determine if a deep plane facelift surgery in Raleigh is the best option for you.

BEFORE & AFTER

Facelift

*Individual results may vary.

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Deep Plane Facelift vs. Traditional Facelift in Raleigh

The key difference between a deep plane facelift and a standard facelift lies in the depth of tissue manipulation. In a standard facelift, the surgeon primarily lifts and repositions the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), tightening the skin and some underlying muscles. This technique can effectively address mild to moderate sagging, but its impact is limited to more superficial layers, leading to less comprehensive and shorter-lasting results.

A deep plane facelift works on a deeper anatomical level, releasing and repositioning the muscles, fat pads, and connective tissues beneath the SMAS layer. This allows for more substantial correction of advanced aging signs like deep nasolabial folds, jowls, and midface sagging. By lifting these deeper structures, a deep plane facelift offers more natural results without creating tension on the skin, reducing the risk of an artificial or “tight” appearance.

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    Your Consultation with Dr. Stein in Raleigh

    During your consultation, you’ll undergo a thorough facial analysis to assess skin quality, muscle tone, and facial structure. Dr. Stein will listen to your concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and evaluate the areas of aging you’d like addressed. He will review your medical history, current medications, and overall health to ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery. Using this information, Dr. Stein will recommend a customized surgical plan, explain the procedure in detail, and answer any questions about the process and recovery.

    a woman sitting in a cafe with a cup with her head resting on her fist and looking off after getting a deep plane facelift in Raleigh

    What Happens During the Deep Plane Facelift?

    The deep plane facelift begins with the administration of IV deep sedation to keep you completely comfortable. Dr. Stein then makes carefully placed incisions around the natural creases of your ears, extending into the hairline to minimize visible scarring. These incisions provide access to the deeper layers of your face, including the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) and the ligaments that support your facial structure.

    Dr. Stein releases key facial ligaments and attachments between the SMAS and deeper tissues. By fully mobilizing the deeper facial layers, he can reposition the fat pads and muscles that have descended due to aging. This process restores youthful contour and volume to the midface, jawline, and neck. Excess skin is then carefully trimmed, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. The entire procedure takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

    What Can I Expect From Recovery?

    After your deep plane facelift, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and tightness, which are all normal parts of the healing process. During the first week, you must keep your head elevated and avoid strenuous activity. You’ll return to Dr. Stein for a follow-up appointment within a few days to monitor your progress and have any drains or sutures removed.

    By the second to third week, much of the swelling and bruising will begin to subside, and you’ll feel more comfortable resuming light activities. Most patients return to work around three to four weeks post-surgery, though it may take several months for the final results to become fully visible as your face continues to heal and settle. Dr. Stein will provide personalized guidance throughout your recovery to ensure optimal results.

    Dr. Stein meets with a patient who is looking at her face in a mirror before getting ethnic rhinoplasty in Raleigh

    Complementary Procedures to a Deep Plane Facelift...

    To enhance your deep plane facelift results, you may consider complementary procedures. Dr. Stein often recommends options like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), a brow lift, or neck liposuction to refine your appearance further. These procedures can address additional signs of aging, creating a more harmonious and rejuvenated look.

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    Request Your Consultation With Dr. Stein

    Dr. Stein is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with decades of experience performing deep plane facelifts in Raleigh, NC. His meticulous attention to detail and personalized approach ensure that each patient receives the highest standard of care. Throughout your surgical and post-surgical journey, Dr. Stein is attentive to you and even offers his cell phone for any post-operative concerns. To explore how a deep plane facelift can rejuvenate your appearance, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stein today.

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