The deep plane facelift.

Abstract

The goal of any cosmetic facial plastic surgery procedure is to obtain a natural-appearing result that is not overdone or obviously operated upon. This is the case whether the background of the operating surgeon is in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, general plastic surgery, dermatology, or oculoplastic surgery. To satisfy this goal, the surgeon must apply those techniques that consistently achieve effective but understated results rather than experimenting with every new innovation or fad. More and more surgeons are moving away from some of the so-called advances of the last decade, including the use of lasers for skin resurfacing and the application of endoscopic approaches to the face, in the search for the best results possible. Sometimes this means utilizing older techniques that have proven the test of time, such as the coronal browlift and chemical peels, whereas other times this means embracing those newer techniques that clearly represent major advances in our specialty, such as the transconjunctival approach to lower lid blepharoplasty. The deep plane facelift is one such advance. In contrast to traditional, skin or short-SMAS flap techniques, the deep plane facelift allows the surgeon to consistently obtain a natural-appearing result that not only addresses the key areas of concern in the aging face but also proves to be longer lasting as well. The deep plane technique also results in fewer complications, an improved ability to address the melolabial region and jowls, and increased anatomic appeal for the operating surgeon.