A deep plane facelift is a great facial rejuvenation procedure for women and men who want beautiful and natural-looking facelift results. A deep plane facelift can treat jowls, marionette lines, and nasolabial folds to give the face a smoother and more youthful appearance. Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Balikian is an expert in the field and offer the best deep plane facelift results Marietta and San Diego have to offer.

Our faces age in 3 different ways. They change with gravity (and sag down over time) they change with volume loss (where we lose fat, bone, and muscles throughout our face causing deflation) and they change with texture changes to the skin (caused by hereditary factors and sun exposure).

A deep plane facelift works on fixing the gravitational changes caused over time as well as repositioning fat pads that have deflated and descended. A deep plane facelift provides an excellent option for facial rejuvenation.

Dr. Balikian has always used world-class facelift techniques to give natural-looking results. In addition to using his sub-SMAS facelift technique, Dr. Balikian now also offers a deep plane facelift for next-generation results.

Facelift techniques have changed much over time. Long ago surgeons would do skin-only facelifts where the skin was pulled, and the result was unnatural and scarred. Then, the facelift technique progressed to lifting the muscles up with stitches and removing a little excess skin, however, these results did not last a long time. Because of these shortcomings Dr. Balikian and other master facelift surgeons evolved to use a sub-SMAS technique for maximum lift.

SUB-SMAS FACELIFT

A sub-SMAS facelift uses small, well hidden, incisions around the ears to access the cheeks and neck muscles that have descended with gravity. In addition, it utilizes a small incision under the chin (completely hidden) to access the neck.

Dr. Balikian can then treat the excess fat and tissues of the neck, improving a “turkey waddle” as well as vertical banding. With sub-SMAS and deep plane techniques, Dr. Balikian can lift the tissues that have fallen with gravity and secure them back where they were ten years ago. Once the architecture of the face is lifted back, the excess skin can be removed without excess tension. The result is a natural lift, that sharpens the neckline, the jawline, and the marionette lines.

HOW THE DEEP PLANE FACELIFT IS DIFFERENT

The Deep plane facelift can be thought of as an extension of the sub-SMAS facelift. It differs from a SMAS facelift in that the skin and deeper tissues are lifted as one unit. This allows for more aggressive lifting and flattening of the jowls, marionette lines, and nasolabial folds. In addition, the structures and ligaments that are holding the tissues down are released which allows for more significant lifting of the cheek fat that has descended with gravity.

The result is a natural lift, that sharpens and extends the neckline, sharpens the jawline, the marionette lines, and the nasolabial folds, and lifts the cheeks at the same time. It is an advanced technique performed by only very few plastic surgeons with the expertise and training required for a next-level result.

FAQ ABOUT FACELIFT

During consultations with plastic surgeons, patients usually ask questions about facelifts and other procedures. We encourage everyone to understand the details of the procedure they want. 

This facelift FAQ provides insights that help you decide on a procedure that will benefit you the most.

1. What’s involved in the extended deep plane facelift?

The extended deep plane facelift is a comprehensive procedure that strategically repositions deep facial tissues, offering a more detailed enhancement compared to traditional facelifts.

2. How long does the extended deep plane facelift procedure take on average?

Procedures usually take up to two (2) hours. The duration varies based on factors like the intricacy of the surgery and individual patient needs.

3 . Is general anesthesia used during the extended deep plane facelift?

Yes, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

4. What are the potential risks associated with this facelift technique?

While rare, such risks may include minimal bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related reactions. Our experienced surgeons thoroughly discuss these aspects with you during consultations to address any concerns.

5. Is scarring a significant concern with the extended deep plane facelift?

Our surgeons minimize visible scarring by strategically placing incisions. They use meticulous techniques to make sure the scars blend seamlessly with the skin.

6. How do results from the extended deep plane facelift differ from traditional facelifts?

This technique offers lifting and volumizing effects by addressing deep facial structures. Results look natural and enduring, and lasts 10-15 years, thus setting this procedure apart from standard treatments.

7. Can extended deep plane facelift be combined with other procedures?

Combining it with complementary surgeries like eyelid surgery or a brow lift can achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

8. What is the expected downtime after the extended deep plane facelift?

While recovery experiences vary, patients typically have downtime for a few weeks. This period allows for initial swelling and bruising to gradually subside, revealing the full benefits of the procedure.

9. How can I optimize my recovery after undergoing the extended deep plane facelift?

Following post-operative care guidelines is essential for optimal recovery and long-lasting results. It includes proper rest, avoiding strenuous physical activities, and attending follow-up appointments.

Other Procedures to consider

Facial Fat Transfer

As we age, our face also ages like a grape turning into a raisin. Volume is lost, and unwanted folds and creases develop. Although a facelift will lift some tissues into place and help fill in those spots, often more volume is needed.

Facial fat transfer allows Dr. Balikian to replace your volume loss, with your own fat from other parts of your body, such as stubborn belly fat. Combining fat transfer with a facelift allows Dr. Balikian to tap into his artistry to complete the picture of a pretty face. He often says a facelift rejuvenates, while the fat adds the beauty. Contact Balikian Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment!

EYE REJUVENATION

If you suffer from droopy skin around the eyelids that causes you to look much older and tired while also limiting your vision, then you may be a good fit for blepharoplasty. The best candidates for blepharoplasty should be in good physical health, be ready to follow any pre-operative instructions given, and have realistic expectations. We will help determine your candidacy for the procedure during your consultation.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Often wrinkles on the face are deep and stubborn. A properly performed facelift can help smooth some wrinkles out by removing excess skin, it will not eliminate deeper wrinkles. In this situation, Dr. Balikian often recommends a CO2 laser resurfacing at the same time as surgery.

Through this heat stamp, the top layer of skin will be resurfaced, and the deeper layers will be contracted. Collagen formation will begin, and the deepest wrinkles will be improved. Just like refurbishing a damaged piece of furniture with medium sandpaper, the overall result will look better, but the deepest dings will remain to some extent.

Richard V. Balikian, MD, FACS

Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Artistry. Excellence. Compassion

Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Balikian is an experienced, double board-certified, facial plastic surgeon. He is double board-certified both in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Balikian belongs to a very select group of elite cosmetic surgeons with at least six years of specialized surgical training exclusively in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and neck.

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COST AND PAYMENT OPTIONS

During your consultation, our team will go over the details of your deep plane facelift in Murrieta and go over cost and payment options for the procedure. Price will be based on several factors and whether or not additional procedures are performed along with your deep plane facelift.

Contact Our Office

Dr. Balikian is a highly-skilled, double board-certified plastic surgeon who proudly serves Temecula Valley and San Diego. If you are interested in learning more about the facelift, do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation. Dr. Balikian will happily guide you through the entire process, address any questions or concerns you have, and provide you with amazing results from your deep plane facelift in Murrieta or San Diego.

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I felt well prepared prior to surgery and excited.

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I always planned to have a facelift but was really apprehensive about scars and the ‘Joker face’ look, but when I saw the lower facelift/neck lift results on another of his patients, I was finally ready. Dr. Balikian and his staff answered all my questions and I felt well prepared prior to surgery and excited. […] I’m only 12 days post-op and have no visible suture lines. My saggy neck skin and jowls are gone! I just look refreshed and younger, far from the ‘Joker face’ look I was afraid of. I’m really happy with my results and I will recommend Dr. Balikian without hesitation.