What Is a Deep Plane Facelift, and Is It Worth It?
A facelift is one of the most sought-after procedures for reversing the signs of aging. Among the many facelift variations, the extended deep plane facelift has emerged as a standout procedure.
Considering a facelift in San Diego? The extended deep plane facelift at Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery offers natural, long-lasting results by targeting the deep structural layers of the face, not just the skin.
Learn how this advanced technique, performed by double board-certified surgeon Dr. Richard Balikian, can transform your appearance while preserving facial harmony.
San Diego’s Own Deep Plane Facelift Expert
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Richard V. Balikian is known for his innovation in facial rejuvenation. As a leader in the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift, he elevates deep facial structures while preserving vital support for natural, long-lasting results and a smoother recovery.
His signature technique, the Artiste Lift™, enhances this approach by combining deep vertical neck lifting, facial fat transfer, and laser resurfacing for a fully tailored outcome.
At Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery in San Diego, every facelift is customized to restore youthful contours while keeping you looking like yourself.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation procedure that goes beyond the surface to address the root causes of facial aging. Unlike traditional facelifts, which primarily tighten loose skin, the deep plane technique lifts and repositions the deeper layers of facial tissue, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and underlying fat pads. These deeper structures are responsible for midface volume and the natural contours of the cheeks and jawline.
By releasing and mobilizing the ligaments that tether facial tissue, the deep plane facelift allows for a more natural and longer-lasting repositioning of the cheeks, jawline, and neck. This creates a refreshed appearance without the overly tight or “windblown” look often seen in older facelift techniques.
How Does the Deep Plane Facelift Compare to Other Techniques?
Traditional facelift techniques primarily address surface-level concerns like loose or sagging skin. While they can offer temporary improvement, especially in patients with mild signs of aging, they often fall short in correcting the deeper structural changes, such as volume loss and muscle laxity, that contribute to an aged appearance.
In contrast, the deep plane facelift provides a more comprehensive and lasting solution. By repositioning tissue beneath the SMAS layer, it avoids pulling the skin tightly, which helps reduce visible tension, scarring, and the unnatural “overdone” look.
This deeper approach sets the foundation for Dr. Balikian’s Artiste Lift™, his signature preservation deep plane facelift that takes the technique even further. By combining deep structural release with volume preservation, refined neck sculpting, and natural ligament support, the Artiste Lift™ delivers elegant, balanced rejuvenation that restores the face, not just lifts it.
Precision Meets Artistry
The Artiste Lift™: Dr. Balikian’s Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
Dr. Richard Balikian’s Artiste Lift™ is a signature preservation deep plane facelift that elevates the traditional technique into a more refined, artistic approach. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Balikian combines deep anatomical knowledge with a keen aesthetic eye to lift the midface, sculpt the jawline, and restore youthful volume, all while preserving the natural character of the face.
This preservation-based technique works beneath the SMAS layer, allowing for the safe release and repositioning of deep facial structures without placing tension on the skin. By preserving key facial ligaments and vascular integrity, the Artiste Lift™ minimizes trauma, reduces swelling, and supports a faster, smoother recovery.
The result is a graceful, long-lasting rejuvenation of the face and neck that looks natural in motion and at rest, typically lasting 10 to 15 years or more. It’s not just a facelift. It’s a tailored restoration of your most confident, refreshed self.
Preservation Deep Plane Facelift Before & After
What to Expect During Recovery
Dr. Balikian’s technique minimizes trauma by preserving critical skin structures, which means less bruising, reduced swelling, and a faster return to your daily routine. Most patients are photo-ready in 10–14 days, and light activity can resume even sooner.
No drains are required, and pain is typically minimal.
“I was nervous about recovery, but I was shocked how quickly I felt like myself again. The care and attention I received made all the difference.”
– Real Patient, Age 57
Is It Worth It?
For individuals seeking a transformative and long-lasting facial rejuvenation, the extended deep plane facelift is absolutely worth considering. With the benefits of restoring a youthful, natural appearance while minimizing the risk of looking “overdone,” the deep plane facelift has become a cornerstone of Southern California cosmetic surgery. Dr. Balikian’s advanced approach to addressing deeper facial structures ensures more balanced and durable results compared to traditional methods.
Recovery from an extended deep plane facelift typically involves some swelling and bruising, with most patients feeling comfortable resuming daily activities within just two weeks. While the initial downtime may seem significant, the results make the commitment worthwhile. Compared to traditional facelifts, this procedure often leads to smoother healing and a more graceful, balanced outcome that truly stands the test of time.
Contact Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery
If you’re considering a deep plane facelift in San Diego, Dr. Richard V. Balikian is a trusted expert in his field. His skill in performing advanced facelift treatments ensures that every patient receives personalized care and stunning results. Contact Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation.
Natural-Looking Rejuvenation
Deep Plane Facelift FAQs
Is a deep plane facelift worth it compared with other facelift methods or fillers?
For patients seeking natural movement and long-term change in the cheeks, jawline, and neck, the deep plane approach can be a strong value because it repositions deeper structures, not just skin. Reviews show both deep plane and SMAS methods achieve high satisfaction; the best choice is individualized to anatomy and goals.
What makes a deep plane facelift different from a traditional facelift?
It releases and lifts tissue beneath the SMAS and cheek fat pads, reducing the need to tighten skin and helping avoid a pulled look. This deeper repositioning supports natural facial motion and longer-lasting contour.
How soon do patients look presentable or photo-ready?
Most patients are photo-ready in about 10 to 14 days, with light activity resuming earlier as swelling settles.
How long do results last?
Dr. Balikian’s preservation deep plane approach aims for results that commonly last 10 to 15 years or more, with durability shaped by skin quality, sun protection, and weight stability.
How long do the results last?
The Artiste Lift is designed to provide long-lasting results, typically 10-15 years. While you’ll continue to age naturally, you’ll always look younger than if you hadn’t had the procedure.
Can the procedure be tailored with neck work, fat transfer, or laser?
Yes. The Artiste Lift™ plan may include deep vertical neck lifting, facial fat transfer, and laser resurfacing when indicated for balanced, natural results
Do you typically need drains?
Dr. Balikian’s technique preserves key skin attachments and does not require drains, which supports smoother recovery.
What are common risks and how are they minimized?
Facelift complication rates are low in large reviews. Hematoma is the most reported early issue; meticulous technique and careful blood-pressure control help reduce risk.
What is the chance of nerve weakness and does it affect results?
Permanent motor nerve injury is uncommon; temporary weakness can occur and usually resolves as swelling fades. Natural expression is preserved when deep work is performed with careful dissection.
Is a deep plane facelift a good option for men?
Yes. The method targets deeper causes of aging while preserving strong, masculine definition so results look refreshed, not overdone.
How does deep plane lifting address nasolabial folds and jowls?
By releasing retaining ligaments and moving the cheek complex as a unit, midface support improves and jowling softens without skin tension. This mechanism underpins the natural look patients seek.
How should I evaluate a surgeon for this procedure?
Look for a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with deep plane expertise, a gallery of natural results, and a plan that can integrate neck refinement and volume when needed. Dr. Balikian’s pages outline this approach in detail.
Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Richard Balikian is a highly respected facial plastic surgeon serving the San Diego area.
With over 20 years of experience and double board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Balikian offers a unique combination of technical expertise and artistic vision.
He is part of an elite group of surgeons with extensive training focused exclusively on the face and neck.
Learn More About Facial Plastic Surgery
Richard V. Balikian, MD, FACS
Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery: Richard V. Balikian, MD, FACS
