Blog

When considering a facelift, most people have one primary goal in mind: to look younger without appearing to have undergone cosmetic surgery. That’s precisely why the deep-plane facelift has become the preferred choice among patients and skilled surgeons alike. This advanced technique surpasses traditional facelift methods by lifting not only the skin but also the deeper facial structures, for more natural and longer-lasting results.

Suppose you’re beginning to notice signs of aging that non-surgical treatments can’t fix. In that case, it may be time to learn more about the benefits of a deep-plane facelift with Sarasota’s premier double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Kristopher Hamwi.

What Is a Deep-Plane Facelift?

A deep-plane facelift is a surgical procedure that corrects sagging in the midface, jawline, and neck by repositioning not just the skin, but also the underlying muscle and connective tissues (specifically the SMAS layer, the superficial musculoaponeurotic system). This technique works in a deeper anatomical layer than traditional facelifts, which typically separate and pull the skin more superficially.

By releasing and lifting these deeper facial structures, Dr. Hamwi can restore natural volume, reposition sagging tissues, and create smooth, refined contours that don’t rely on skin tension to hold their shape. This results in a youthful appearance that looks balanced, never tight or overdone.

How Is It Different from a Traditional Facelift?

The main difference between a deep-plane facelift and a traditional facelift is what’s being lifted. A conventional facelift focuses on removing excess skin and tightening the remaining skin. It can help soften wrinkles and improve loose skin, but it may not address sagging that occurs deeper in the face.

A deep-plane facelift, on the other hand:

• Targets deeper tissues for structural support and midface rejuvenation.
• Releases facial ligaments for greater mobility and lift.
• Reduces skin tension, which minimizes scarring and leads to a more natural appearance.
• Restores cheek volume, eliminating the need for fillers in many cases.
• Improves both the lower face and neck in one procedure.

Due to its advanced nature, this technique requires precision and expertise. Dr. Hamwi’s extensive training in facial surgery makes him uniquely qualified to perform deep-plane facelifts safely and effectively.

Benefits of a Deep-Plane Facelift

For the right candidate, a deep-plane facelift offers advantages that surpass those of older techniques or non-surgical alternatives.

1. Natural-Looking Results

By lifting the deeper layers of tissue as a single unit, the skin is never pulled tight or distorted. This avoids the windblown or “plastic” look that many patients worry about.

2. Restoration of Midface Volume

Instead of adding fillers to the cheeks or under the eyes, the deep-plane facelift restores volume by repositioning the tissue that has fallen with age. This results in a more youthful, rested appearance.

3. Long-Lasting Outcomes

Because the lift is structural, not skin-based, the results are more durable. Most patients enjoy their refreshed appearance for 10 to 15 years or more, depending on genetics, lifestyle, and skincare habits.

4. Improved Neck and Jawline

This technique can also smooth out loose neck skin, sharpen the jawline, and eliminate jowls, often eliminating the need for a separate neck lift.

5. Minimal Scarring

Since the skin isn’t under tension, incisions heal more cleanly and are strategically placed around the ears and within the hairline, remaining virtually invisible.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for a deep-plane facelift if:

• You’re in your 40s to 70s and experiencing moderate to severe facial aging.
• You have sagging cheeks, deep folds, jowls, or loose skin in the lower face and neck.
• You are in good overall health and do not smoke.
• You’ve tried injectables or fillers and found them insufficient.
• You want natural results that don’t make it obvious you’ve had surgery.

During your consultation at Florida Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, Dr. Hamwi will evaluate your anatomy, skin quality, and goals to determine if the deep-plane technique is proper for you.

What to Expect During the Procedure

A deep-plane facelift is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on whether it’s being combined with other surgeries such as a brow lift or eyelid lift.

Dr. Hamwi begins by making small, well-concealed incisions around the ears and along the hairline. Through these openings, he releases the retaining ligaments in the face, lifts the deeper tissues, and repositions the facial structures for a natural, youthful contour. The skin is then gently re-draped without tension, and excess skin is trimmed.

You’ll return home the same day with a customized recovery plan and close follow-up care to ensure optimal healing.

Recovery and Downtime

Most patients need 2 to 3 weeks of social downtime following a deep-plane facelift. Swelling and bruising are normal in the first 7 to 10 days and gradually resolve over time. Dr. Hamwi provides detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal safely and comfortably.

You should avoid strenuous activity for at least 3 to 4 weeks, but light walking and upright rest are encouraged early in recovery to support circulation. Most patients feel comfortable attending events or returning to work within 2 to 3 weeks, with results continuing to improve for several months.

Combining Sarasota Deep-Plane Facelift with Other Procedures

Yes. A deep-plane facelift is often part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan. Depending on your goals, Dr. Hamwi may recommend combining your deep-plane facelift with:

• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) to open up tired eyes
• Brow lift to smooth forehead lines and lift sagging brows
• Neck contouring for more extensive neck skin laxity
• Fat grafting to restore volume in areas like the temples or lips

Combining procedures allows for more balanced results and a single recovery period.

Why Choose Dr. Kristopher Hamwi?

As a double board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training, Dr. Kristopher Hamwi is widely recognized for his expertise in facial aesthetics. His extensive training, artistic eye, and meticulous surgical technique allow him to deliver results that look both beautiful and believable.

Patients from across Florida trust Dr. Hamwi for his commitment to achieving natural results, providing personalized care, and maintaining transparent communication. At Florida Plastic Surgery and MedSpa in Sarasota, every facelift is customized to the individual — there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

Schedule Your Sarasota Deep-Plane Facelift Consultation Today

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a more lifted, refreshed appearance, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hamwi. He’ll walk you through your options and help you understand whether a deep-plane facelift is right for your goals. Call us today at (941) 289-2791, complete our online contact form, or email connect@floridaplasticsurgery.com to get started.