Deep Plane Facelift
in Bradenton & Sarasota, FL

LA Plastic Surgery in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, offers a sophisticated approach to the deep plane facelift, elevating facial rejuvenation beyond traditional techniques. This advanced procedure is the pinnacle of modern facial surgery, addressing aging at multiple levels for truly transformative results. Our practice has pioneered innovative combinations of surgical techniques and cutting-edge technologies like helium plasma and PRP, which are not commonly found elsewhere.

Deep Plane Facelift in Bradenton & Sarasota, FL

Table of Contents

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Does the Procedure Involve a Neck Lift?

Preparation for Deep Plane Facelift

Deep Plane Facelift Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview

Add-On Procedures

Recovery After Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

Candidates for Deep Plane Facelift

Benefits of Deep Plane Facelift

Cost of Deep Plane Facelift in Bradenton & Sarasota, FL

What Makes LA Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Experience Our Signature Plasma Lyft Facelift

Table of Contents

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Does the Procedure Involve a Neck Lift?

Preparation for Deep Plane Facelift

Deep Plane Facelift Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview

Add-On Procedures

Recovery After Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

Candidates for Deep Plane Facelift

Benefits of Deep Plane Facelift

Cost of Deep Plane Facelift in Bradenton, FL

What Makes LA Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Experience Our Signature Plasma Lyft Facelift

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is an advanced technique in cosmetic surgery that involves lifting facial tissues at a deeper level than traditional facelift methods. Unlike conventional approaches that primarily address the skin’s surface, this procedure works beneath the SMAS layer, targeting the deep facial structures and muscles for more comprehensive results. The technique focuses on repositioning the midface, jowls, and neck as a single, connected unit, which helps create a more natural appearance. The deep plane method has evolved significantly since its introduction in the 1990s, with modern variations incorporating an improved understanding of facial anatomy and aging patterns.

Does the Procedure Involve a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is included in facelift procedures to ensure that facial improvements do not contrast with signs of neck aging. The deep-plane technique, which repositions deeper facial structures rather than just tightening the skin, typically extends to the neck area as well. This allows for a more seamless, natural-looking rejuvenation that addresses the lower face and neck in a comprehensive approach.

Facelift & Neck Lift: Before and After Gallery

Preparation for Deep Plane Facelift

The first step in a deep plane facelift is a comprehensive consultation where our surgeon evaluates the patient’s facial skin conditions, bone structure, and overall health status. During this initial assessment, we discuss the patient’s aesthetic goals and explain how the procedure can address specific concerns related to facial aging. A medical history review is essential to identify any conditions or medications that might increase surgical risks.
Before the procedure, patients undergo laboratory tests and may be asked to adjust certain medications or supplements that could increase bleeding. We recommend pre-operative skincare regimens to optimize facial skin condition and enhance healing potential. In the weeks before surgery, patients are generally advised to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain anti-inflammatory medications to minimize complications and support optimal recovery outcomes.

Deep Plane Facelift Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview

Anesthesia

The deep plane facelift typically begins with anesthesia to ensure patient comfort throughout the surgery. We perform this procedure under IV sedation as it allows us to minimize risks, reduce recovery time, and achieve optimal surgical results. Our anesthesiologist carefully monitors vital signs throughout the operation to maintain patient safety.

Incisions

Our surgeon creates incisions that typically begin in the temporal hair above the ear, continue around the ear’s natural contour, and extend into the lower scalp. This pattern allows access to deeper facial structures while ensuring that resulting scars remain well-concealed within the hairline and natural creases. The incision placement may vary based on the patient’s facial anatomy and the necessary corrections to achieve optimal rejuvenation results.

Deep Plane Dissection

The defining characteristic of this technique is the meticulous dissection at the deep-plane level beneath the SMAS layer. Our surgeon carefully identifies and releases key ligaments that anchor facial tissues, particularly in the midface region. By working at this deeper level, we can achieve a more comprehensive repositioning of facial structures, addressing volume loss and laxity in ways not possible with more superficial techniques.

Tissue Repositioning

Following dissection, our surgeon vertically repositions the tissue to counteract the effects of aging and restore youthful contours. This upward movement helps recreate the natural fullness of the cheeks and midface while reducing jowling and improving jawline definition. The deep-plane approach allows for tension-free repositioning that produces natural-looking results without the stretched appearance sometimes associated with traditional facelifts.

Tissue Sculpting

The precise sculpting of facial tissues allows us to enhance overall facial harmony. Our surgeon may perform selective fat removal in areas of excess fullness while preserving or adding volume in regions with age-related deflation. This customized approach to tissue manipulation helps create balanced facial proportions and natural contours. Our surgeon’s artistic judgment during this phase helps achieve aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Closure

Once facial tissues have been appropriately repositioned and sculpted, we carefully close the incisions using fine sutures. Meticulous attention to the closure technique helps minimize visible scarring and tension on healing tissues. We may also employ a layered closure approach to reduce tension and optimize scar appearance. Surgical drains can be temporarily placed to prevent fluid accumulation before applying a light compression dressing that supports the newly positioned tissues during initial healing.

Add-On Procedures

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting is a popular add-on to facelift surgery, using a patient’s own fat to restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks, under-eyes, and temples. This technique enhances facial contours and improves skin texture by delivering natural, long-lasting results. It complements the lifting effects of surgery by adding youthful fullness where needed.

Skin Resurfacing

Skin resurfacing with Renuvion is often paired with facelifts to improve skin tone and texture. While the facelift repositions deeper tissues, resurfacing targets the outermost layer of skin, reducing fine lines, sun damage, and other surface imperfections for a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

Regenerative Medicine

Regenerative medicine treatments, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or cell-based therapy, can enhance facial rejuvenation when combined with a facelift. These procedures promote collagen production and cellular repair, helping to improve skin quality and accelerate healing. As an add-on, they support longer-lasting and more radiant results.

Recovery After Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

Immediate Post-Operative Period (Days 1-7)

The first week after a deep plane facelift involves significant swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which is managed through prescribed medications and cold compresses. Patients must always keep their heads elevated to minimize symptoms and support proper healing. Drainage tubes may be placed initially to prevent fluid accumulation. The initial dressings are typically removed during the first follow-up appointment around day 5, when the surgeon assesses healing progress and might remove some sutures. Limited movement and rest are essential during this period, with patients advised to avoid bending, lifting, or straining.

Early Recovery (Weeks 2-3)

During this period, swelling and bruising noticeably subside, though facial tissues may feel tight and numb. Most external sutures are removed in follow-up appointments scheduled during this timeframe. Many patients feel comfortable enough to resume light daily activities and may begin using makeup to conceal any remaining bruising if incision sites are adequately healed. Sensations of tightness or tingling are normal as nerve function gradually returns. By the end of this period, most patients can return to work and limited social activities, though some visible signs of surgery may persist.

Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 4-6)

By the one-month mark, patients typically resume all social activities, with most obvious traces of surgery gone. Physical restrictions begin to ease, though strenuous exercise remains prohibited. Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring healing progress and addressing any concerns about asymmetry that may become apparent as swelling subsides. Facial sensation continues to improve, though some areas can still experience numbness. Patients generally resume most normal activities during this phase, with continuing attention to scar care and protection from sun exposure.

Long-Term Recovery (Months 2-6)

The final phase of recovery sees the resolution of subtle swelling and the emergence of final results. Follow-up appointments become less frequent but remain essential for monitoring long-term healing outcomes. Scars typically fade from red to pink and continue to improve in appearance. Patients can usually resume all normal activities without restrictions, including more vigorous exercise routines. Any areas of persistent numbness generally show significant improvement during this period. By six months post-surgery, patients have typically achieved their final results, with the full benefits of the deep plane technique becoming apparent in the rejuvenated facial contours.

Candidates for Deep Plane Facelift

Choosing to undergo a deep plane facelift is a personal decision often influenced by aesthetic goals and the natural aging process. It suits many individuals who want to address facial aging more comprehensively. Ideal candidates typically fall into the following groups:

Individuals in their 40s to 60s noticing sagging in the midface or jawline
People with good overall health and realistic expectations
Those experiencing deeper facial aging that less invasive options cannot correct
Patients with visible neck aging paired with facial laxity
Those seeking natural-looking enhancement without an overdone appearance

Benefits of Deep Plane Facelift

Many patients are drawn to techniques that offer more comprehensive and natural results when considering a facelift. As an advanced cosmetic procedure, the deep plane facelift appeals to those looking for subtle yet powerful enhancements. Key benefits include:

Cost of Deep Plane Facelift in Bradenton & Sarasota, FL

The cost of a deep plane facelift in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, ranges from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on factors like the doctor’s expertise, the surgical facility, and the complexity of the procedure. At LA Plastic Surgery, this treatment starts at $20,000. We offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit, LendingUSA, and Alphaeon Credit, to make the procedure more affordable and convenient.

What Makes LA Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

LA Plastic Surgery takes a different approach to deep plane facelifts than most practices. Our technique combines traditional methods with innovative plasma technology, fat grafting, and regenerative medicine. This unique approach repositions facial tissues more effectively and creates longer-lasting results.
Our Bradenton and Sarasota clinics have become the learning centers where surgeons worldwide come to observe the latest methods. Our focus on natural-looking results that enhance each patient’s unique facial features truly sets us apart. We avoid the artificial appearance sometimes seen with standard facelifts by carefully analyzing each face and creating personalized surgical plans. This attention to detail has earned us recognition as leaders in facial rejuvenation.

Experience Our Signature Plasma Lyft Facelift

The Plasma Lyft facelift is a groundbreaking facial rejuvenation technique that adapts to each patient’s unique needs. This signature procedure harnesses the power of Renuvion helium plasma technology, combining it with advanced surgical methods and regenerative medicine to deliver comprehensive results. Available in three customizable intensity levels — Light, Classic, and Ultra — the Plasma Lyft addresses everything from mild skin laxity to significant facial sagging and volume loss.