There are a lot of cosmetic solutions available for treatment of signs of aging, with facelifts being among the most popular. However, some procedures are better than others when it comes to addressing specific concerns. For example, patients who have more severe signs of facial aging may find that a deep plane facelift would be most suited to their needs.

A deep plane facelift can provide patients with longer-lasting results that can keep them looking younger, healthier, and more vibrant than a traditional facelift could. Read on for more details on the advantages that a deep plane facelift can offer plastic surgery patients in the San Diego area.

Creating Natural-Looking Results

The SMAS, or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, is a layer that connects the facial muscles to the skin. During a procedure known as the SMAS lift facelift, it is lifted separately from the skin for facial rejuvenation.

In comparison, during a deep plane facelift, combined lifting is performed for the muscles, skin, and SMAS layer as a single unit. This makes the results of a deep plane facelift look incredibly natural.

Reversing Cheek Aging

One of the primary benefits of deep plane facelift procedures is reversing cheek aging. Over time, the muscles in the cheeks lose tissue and strength, as does the skin. When there is less support for the fat pads in the cheeks, they begin to sag. These changes result in emphasized nasolabial folds in the midface, along with midface drooping and a less youthful look.

The deep plane facelift lifts the malar fat pads and the muscles in the cheeks. This effectively restores support and brings back youthful cheek volume.

Allowing for Easier Recovery

After a facelift comes the recovery process. Traditional facelifts can result in a fair amount of post-surgical bruising, swelling, and pain, along with a lot of downtime and discomfort.

These are all greatly minimized with a deep plane facelift. This technique avoids many of the contributing factors, allowing patients to enjoy a shorter and more comfortable recovery period.

Releases Facial Ligaments

Ligaments are bands of connective tissue in the body. Several ligaments are present in the face’s underlying structure. These can include the zygomatic ligaments, which attach to the cheekbones; the mandibular ligaments, which connect to the jawbone; and the platysma ligaments, which create support in the neck and lower face.

Traditional facelifts do not focus on these ligaments, instead merely lifting the skin. By releasing anchoring facial ligaments during a deep plane facelift, surgeons are able to create much more natural results.

Learn More About the Deep Plane Facelift

Double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Balikian has the years of training and experience required to achieve incredible results with the deep plane facelift procedure. The best way to learn more about the advantages of a deep plane facelift is by meeting personally with Dr. Balikian for a consultation. To arrange your consultation with Dr. Balikian, contact us today.