A deep plane facelift is actually a version of the SMAS facelift, similarly repositioning the superficial muscular aponeurotic system.Â
During a deep plane facelift, “the SMAS layer is dissected free from the underlying deeper face anatomy. The ligaments that adhere the skin to the underlying facial anatomy are released, leading to a greater amount of movement and lift possible from the SMAS and skin layers,” explains Dr. Madnani.Â
The skin and SMAS are lifted together, rather than separately, which some doctors say leads to longer-lasting results and a quicker recovery.
“The skin incisions for a facelift do not change that much depending on the type of facelift that is performed,” says Dr. Roth. “A SMAS, deep plane, lower facelift, neck lift, skin lift procedure can all be done through exactly the same skin incisions.”
However, Dr. Madnani cautions that “with the release of ligaments, there is the potential for increased facial nerve damage, as its branches run right below the level of the SMAS.”Â
A traditional SMAS facelift may cost less than a deep plane facelift because it takes less time to perform. That can mean lower facility fees and anesthesia costs, though oftentimes a surgeon’s reputation, credentials, and waiting list will influence their fee far more significantly than the style of facelift they perform.Â
An experienced, reputable surgeon can guide you to the specific procedure that makes sense for you, given your anatomy, concerns, expectations, and budget.