Does the deep plane facelift help with face shape?

Great question!  A well-performed deep plane lift will reposition the lax tissues of the midface, jowl, and neck.  Generally speaking, this can result in a transition from the aged square face to a more youthful triangular shaped face.  Hope this helps!

By definition, the deep plane facelift does NOT rely on a SMASectomy which is one of the many benefits of this procedures. Instead, the procedure repositions sagging tissues after mobilization. The difference lies in tightening of tissues (SMASectomy or SMAS lift) vs. repositioning droopy cheeks and jowls (deep plane facelift). Flatness will improve with the deep plane lift. For best results, you may require fat grafting in addition. 

Repositioning the SMAS can add volume to the midface which gives a more youthful appearance.  Subperiosteal lift, sometimes called deep plane, are less effective in my opinion.

The deep plane facelift procedure does re-position the cheek fat pads higher and slightly wider, however it does not add volume to these areas. The deep plane facelift is a lifting procedure and the goal is to re-position the tissue into it youthful position, usually upward and outward. After the procedure you will feel like it also augmented the cheek volume, however that is the result of post-operative swelling. Over the course of the next few weeks to months the cheek volume will reduce, usually back to the pre-surgical state. Volume could always be augmented after the procedure with fillers like Voluma or Lyft. As far as the smasectomy goes, it is surgeon dependent. I use a smasectomy to enter the deep plane and I find it makes a smoother transition when fixating the SMAS into its new position, but this is all just personal preference. I hope this helped, good luck!! 

The aging face is a result of tissue laxity and gravity.  The deep plane facelift is essentially an
extended SMAS facelift.  It goes deeper
and allows for more mobilization of the deep fascial tissues for better
repositioning.  Since the cheek fat pad
also drops with the rest of the tissues, it is lifted to give volume to the
"cheekbones" which gives a more youthful appearance.  Typically, the deep plane facelift, if done
well, helps you to look like yourself, just younger.  Yes, it may help lift the flat face.


Grant A. Fairbanks, MD

Yes, the deep plane technique elevates and re-positions the cheek fat pad. This volumizes the outer cheeks and can make the overall face shape more youthful. Additional volume might still be needed depending on your anatomy and your goals. This can accomplished with a fat transfer. Be sure to consult with an experienced facial surgeon.