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What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Deep plane facelift refers to the layer of the facial tissue that is being repositioned. Rather than lifting the skin only, the deep plane facelift addresses a sandwich of facial tissue, consisting of the skin, fat, and muscle, and repositions all of these tissues as a unit to their original position. Because the deep plane facelift lifts only under the muscle layer and repositions multiple layers of sagging tissue, it avoids the problems of an overly tight and unnatural result.


Deep Plane Facelift patient

This patient of Dr. Michelle Lee had a deep plane facelift in Beverly Hills. At three months, you can see the facelift had restored a youthful and natural appearance by:

  • Tightening deep facial tissues
  • Smoothing prominent folds
  • Removing excess sagging skin
  • Lifting and firming her face, cheeks, and neck

How is a Deep Plane Facelift different from a SMAS facelift?

A SMAS facelift commonly refers to a facelift where the skin is separated from the underlying muscle and fascia. The SMAS layers are then repositioned––most commonly with sutures. Unlike the SMAS facelift, the deep plane facelift leaves the skin connected to the deeper muscle and soft tissue. This avoids over tightening of the skin.

By releasing the tethering ligaments of the face and targeting deeper facial muscles, a deep plane facelift goes beyond the SMAS layer especially in the midface region. In addition to rejuvenating the neck and face by lifting the entire SMAS complex, the deep plane facelift significantly enhances the cheekbones. By repositioning the deeper muscles, the deep plane technique reduces tension on the skin and results in a barely visible scar. Overall, the deep plane facelift yields a longer-lasting and natural result.

older woman smiling

Deep Plane Facelift Results and Recovery

Because a deep plane facelift targets deeper tissues and muscles, it is more durable than traditional facelifts and provides practical and long-lasting results for up to fifteen years. You’ll notice these results immediately after surgery.

Facial rejuvenation patients commonly discover that their surgery recovery is much easier than anticipated. While most individuals experience minor to moderate discomfort only during the first few days post-op, severe pain is unusual.

The initial recovery period for a deep plane facelift lasts approximately three weeks. During this time, you may experience the following:

  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Facial discomfort

Dr. Lee and the PERK plastic surgery team will provide you with a customized recovery plan. Most of her facelift patients are back to their routines within three weeks.

You’re advised to refrain from work for two weeks and strenuous activity for six weeks.

Why choose Dr. Michelle Lee for your Deep Plane Facelift?

Dr. Michelle Lee is an award-winning, board-certified, and ivy-league-trained plastic surgeon responsible for some of the most natural-appearing results. Creating natural facelift results requires fusing skill, artistry, and the proper surgical techniques; Dr. Lee combines all three to deliver beautiful, nuanced outcomes tailored to your unique facial structures.

As the creator of PERK, Dr. Lee’s steadfast commitment to artistry, innovation, and safety earned her a starring role in E! Entertainment’s Dr. 90210 TV show. She was the only surgeon performing facial procedures such as:


When ready for a deep plane facelift in Beverly Hills, choose Dr. Lee and the friendly and knowledgeable PERK team. Our compassionate and inclusive practice environment provides the most modern state-of-the-art technology in a convenient location with concierge amenities.

woman smiling in a towel

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Dr 90210 TV Show

Watch Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon Dr. Michelle Lee on the Dr. 90210 TV Show on E!

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