How Long Do Deep Plane Facelift Results Last?
The results of a deep plane facelift surgery last for over fifteen years. Patients will continue to age normally after the surgery is performed, but the results are long lasting.
Even 15 years after deep plane facelift surgery, patients will continue to look as youthful as they did on the day of surgery.
Typical Duration of Results (10–15 Years Younger)
After undergoing deep plane facelift surgery, patients can expect to look at least 10 to 15 years younger.
Extended Deep Plane Facelift for Longer Results
The extended deep plane facelift has better longevity when compared with other types of facelift procedures.
Why do results of a deep plane facelift last longer than a typical facelift?
An extended deep plane facelift is a procedure that very few surgeons across the country are performing, but it is one of the most common procedures performed at The Williams Center.
The deep plane facelift is more technically difficult and takes additional time than other types of facelifts. Therefore, many surgeons do not perform the procedure.
Areas Improved with the Extended Deep Plane Facelift
The extended deep plane facelift provides long-lasting improvement in the midface and lower lids, in addition to the neck and jawline. The extended deep plane facelift restores a youthful appearance and removes excess skin for a natural result.
Deeper Tissue Repositioning vs Surface Tightening
The extended deep plane procedure is more effective than other facelift procedures for many reasons, including more extensive dissection to resuspend the deeper layers that are not addressed with the other types of lifts.
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How Does a Deep Plane Facelift Compare to Other Facelift Types?
At The Williams Center, we often see patients weighing deep plane facelifts against less-invasive alternatives like mini facelifts or “ponytail” facelifts. Below is a comparison of key differences to help you understand which option might be best for your goals:
Deep Plane Facelift vs Mini Facelift / Ponytail Facelift
| Feature | Deep Plane Facelift | Mini / Ponytail Facelift |
| Extent of Tissue Dissection | Involves lifting and repositioning deeper structures beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), including muscles and fat in the midface, jawline, and neck. | More limited dissection; mostly skin re-draping, less work on deep layers. Less involvement of the neck. |
| Results & Longevity | Produces more dramatic rejuvenation across multiple facial regions. Results tend to last much longer due to deeper anchoring and repositioning of underlying tissues. | More subtle improvements. Less dramatic, shorter-lasting results, especially in patients with more advanced signs of aging. |
| Recovery Time & Downtime | Longer recovery; more swelling and bruising is typical. More time off work and longer healing phases. | Shorter downtime. Less swelling and bruising. More amenable to patients wanting quicker return to daily life. |
| Ideal Candidate Profile | Patients with more advanced aging signs (e.g. deep sagging in the neck, jowls, mid-face descent) who are willing to accept more swelling/time for longer-lasting benefits. | Younger patients, or those who have milder signs of aging and want moderate improvement with less surgical risk. Good for patients who do not have significant excess skin in the neck. |
How do I know if I need a facelift?
Patients often will ask us, “Do I need a facelift?” Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question.
The real question is, how much are you bothered by the signs of aging on your face, and do you want to take steps to remedy them?
Signs You May Benefit from a Facelift
Through the plastic surgery consultation process, our specialized facial plastic surgeons will determine whether a person is a good candidate for surgery. Using our computer-generated imagery (CGI) software, patients can see their expected results. The software utilized helps patients understand the possibilities and limitations of facelift surgery.
Consultation and 3D Imaging at The Williams Center
Patients know they are ready for a facelift after they have researched their options, found a facial plastic surgeon they feel comfortable with, and have the desire to restore a more youthful appearance to their face and neck.
Schedule a Facelift Consultation
For more information on the extended deep plane facelift performed at The Williams Center, contact us today.
About the Author: Dr. Edwin Williams
Dr. Edwin Williams is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who founded The Williams Center in 1993. He has performed over 10,000 facial plastic surgery procedures and has pioneered the deep plane facelift. He served on the Board of Directors for the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery for over a decade, and served as President from 2015-2016. In 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, Dr. Williams earned the Castle Connelly Top Doctors award in New York Facial Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Edwin F. Williams III attended Cornell University in Ithaca, New York where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1982. He began medical school at the State University of Buffalo School of Medicine and received his Doctor of Medicine in 1986.
Dr. Williams is actively involved in teaching facial plastic and reconstruction surgery to the residents of the Albany Medical Center and is former Chief of the Section of Facial and Plastic Reconstruction Surgery at Albany Medical Center where he received an academic appointment of Clinical Professor, Department of Surgery.