The Difference Between a Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift

Selecting the right type of facelift can mean the difference between good results and incredible ones. If you’re considering a facelift, you may have come across multiple different types – although the facelift has been the gold standard for facial rejuvenation for many decades, newer techniques can produce more stunning results than ever. One option worth knowing about is the deep plane facelift, and Dr. Emily Misch has performed and assisted in over 400 deep plane facelifts, making her the premier choice for facial rejuvenation here in Denver, CO. Here’s what to know about these two types of facelift and what makes them unique.

What is a Facelift?

The facelift (or traditional facelift, SMAS facelift) is typically what most people think of when they imagine facial plastic surgery. For many decades, the theory behind the facelift has been to tighten the skin of the face to smooth out wrinkles and folds, with little to no work done on the underlying structures and tissue of the face. Unfortunately, this tended to result in a pulled or stretched look and unnatural results. Although when performed well, the facelift can produce great results, it’s no longer the prominent option for patients looking to appear younger.

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is the preeminent facelift technique of the last decade. The deep plane facelift involves targeting sagging and wrinkles by releasing and lifting the deeper tissues of the face, creating more natural and longer-lasting facial rejuvenation. Restoring these deep tissues to their natural youthful position also lifts and tightens the skin, recapturing the appearance you had ten+ years ago.

The Difference Between a Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift

Although the deep plane facelift is a type of facelift, it’s simply a more advanced and extensive technique. The facelift tends to address the upper layers of the face without fully addressing the underlying tissues that cause it to sag and wrinkle. Facelifts that do not treat the deeper layer of the face (SMAS) often produce more superficial results. The deep plane facelift, on the other hand, treats the root cause of aging, leading to longer-lasting, more natural results.

What is Recovery Like?

Recovery for the traditional facelift and the deep plane facelift is similar. Typically, your initial recovery will involve 1-2 weeks of rest. By 2 weeks, most patients are presentable enough to run errands and go back to work. By one month after surgery, your swelling will have substantially reduced and most patients are comfortable going to events and seeing close friends and family, such as weddings or graduations. Over the next several months, your final results will settle in and continue to last for years to come.

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Misch is a deep plane facelift expert here in Denver, having trained extensively under the world’s leading expert in deep plane facelifts, Dr. Andrew Jacono. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Misch, contact our office today by calling or filling out our online form.

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