Deep Plane Facelift

The Deep Plane Facelift avoids the problem of the tight, operated look and is our operation of choice for facial rejuvenation.

This procedure focuses on the release of tethering points (facial ligaments) and redraping of descended fat layers in the mid face and neck, instead of skin pull and removal. The deep plane technique allows for more natural and significant lifting of the mid face, jowl and neck and it has been our observation that the results are more durable than other SMAS techniques.

We aim to produce a brighter, fresher more youthful appearance with scars discreetly placed in the hairline and skin creases. Generally, these fade quickly and are not noticeable.

Frequently, facelifts are combined with procedures to reverse neck aging. These often involves an additional, well-hidden incision under the chin and deep structural work to surgically manipulate the area beneath the platysma muscle.

Major complications after facelifts are rare. Historically, the commonest problem was bleeding in the first few hours after surgery, which required prompt treatment. We have published research in the American Aesthetic Surgery Journal showing that the Hemostatic Net virtually eliminates the risk of postoperative bleeding

Thorough preparation for surgery includes a review of general health, allergies, medication and anaesthetic history. The choice of surgical procedure is determined by assessment of individual facial changes and patient’s desires and expectations.

About Deep Plane Facelift

Aging face surgery is among the most demanding of all aesthetic procedures. We exclusively specialise in facial rejuvenation procedures and our techniques represent the culmination of more than 20 years experience performing over 3000 Facelift procedures.

The range and sophistication of procedures to restore a youthful appearance to the ageing face has advanced considerably in the last few years. The traditional ’face lift’ that tightened and re-draped the skin is now only rarely indicated.

Ponytail Facelift (Endoscopic Face and Brow lift)

A Ponytail Facelift, also known as an Endoscopic Facelift, is a minimally-invasive procedure designed to lift and rejuvenate the cheeks and brow. This modern alternative appeals particularly to middle-aged patients seeking to combat visible signs of aging without committing to a full facelift.

This technique involves making small incisions hidden within the hairline, through which the midface, cheek, and forehead regions are elevated off the bone using endoscopic dissection. The facial tissues are then repositioned to a higher, more youthful position, all while preserving the natural blood supply to the skin and facial tissues.

The result is a subtle yet noticeable improvement in facial contours and definition. One of the significant advantages of the ponytail lift is that it leaves almost no visible scars. This approach avoids the typical signs of a traditional facelift, such as scars around the ears and distorted earlobes, sideburns, and hairlines.

Common Types of Facelifts

Secondary Facelifts

Secondary Facelifts present a particular c challenge. Common secondary Facelift problems include premature facelift failure often due too inadequate treatment of deeper structures, traction deformities from over tightening of skin and lack of deep tissue support. We recommend to wait 1 year before a revision in patients who have facial distortions

Short Scar Facelift

In patients with limited skin redundancy we abbreviate the incision to reduce scarring. This option is suitable for patients who are beginning to show signs of aging. The procedure addresses the lower portion of the face which includes the nasolabial folds, the jowls, and the jawline.

The ’Masklift’

Although less frequently used, this technique is very effective for patients with ageing in the areas around the eyes and cheeks. It is also useful in correcting ’sad’ looking eyes that may occur after eyelid surgery. There are no scars on the face as the incision is within the hair.

The Macs Lift

Suitable for patients with mild to moderate jowls, this macs lift operation has the advantage of no scars behind the ears and a very fast recovery.

Isolated Neck lift

We perform direct neck lifts in patients who want to avoid visible Facial incisions in the hairline and ears. In this approach, we treat superficial and deep structures of the neck with scars, that are generally well disguised in natural neck creases.

The ’Smasectomy’ Facelift

This operation was developed by Dr Baker in the US several years ago. It is applicable for most patients and has the advantages of combining an excellent and natural result with a short recovery time.

The ‘Waterhouse Lift’

Mr Waterhouse has developed a variant of the SMAS procedure and has used it very successfully for several years. The philosophy is to reposition facial soft tissue rather than remove it. This recreates the form of the face in youth and avoids an ‘operated’ look.

He often combines this with a lateral endoscopic brow lift. This procedure recreates a feminine shape to the brow without producing an unnatural ‘surprised’ look. He does not remove the central frown muscles from the brow as some movement here is essential for a natural appearance.

The ‘Extended Smas’ Facelift

This procedure is useful when there is a need to restore fullness to the cheekbone area as well as the neck and jowls. Swelling after surgery can last for longer than with the ’Smasectomy’.

A note on Before-and-After-Photographs

We have made the decision to not post patients’ photographs pre and post-operatively on the website. However, as part of our commitment to education and transparency, we regularly share content on our social media platforms.

Within the practice we of course have many photographs of procedures of patients who are very happy for them to be shown to other patients in the space of a personal consultation so all patients will be able to see good and clear examples which are representative of outcomes.