I’ve been researching deep plane facelifts and I understand that, traditionally, they require incisions around the ears, which can leave a more noticeable scar. Recently, however, I’ve come across several clinics advertising full deep plane facelifts performed endoscopically, using only small incisions instead of the classic periauricular approach. For patients who have more muscle laxity than skin laxity, the idea sounds promising. I’m aware that the ponytail facelift has become popular, but my understanding is that it mainly addresses the upper third of the face (temples/midface), and is more of a gliding lift rather than a true deep plane release, so results may not be as long-lasting. With that in mind, may I ask: 1. Is it technically possible to perform a full deep plane facelift endoscopically and achieve results comparable to the traditional open approach? 2. Are these procedures genuinely deep plane lifts, or more likely modified ponytail/midface lifts marketed as full deep plane results? 3. Is there a limitation in terms of lifting the lower third of the face when performed endoscopically? I haven’t found many surgeons offering a full endoscopic deep plane technique — only mid-face or temporal lifts. I’d be grateful for your expert opinion on whether this approach is realistic, long-lasting, and currently practiced in a comparable way to the conventional deep plane facelift. Thank you in advance for your insight
