Deep Plane Facelift in Turkey: Advanced Facial Rejuvenation with Natural Lift

A deep plane facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation surgery that lifts the deeper facial tissues, and muscles. Restores facial volume and ensures defined facial contours and more youthful appearance.

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is a plastic surgery technique that lifts the deeper support layers of the face, not just the sagging skin.

The plastic surgeon works beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is a fibrous support layer under the skin. By releasing and lifting this layer, the cheeks, jawline, and deep folds can move as a unit. This approach aims for more natural movement and less tension on the skin surface.

Deep Plane is a challenging technique that works very close to facial nerves. Therefore, it can only be performed by plastic surgeons who are specialized in facial anatomy and have successfully applied this technique numerous times.

It is usually combined with other aesthetic surgeries like eyelid surgery and neck lift to achieve younger facial contours and natural looking results.

Related Article: SMAS Face Lifting

While the procedure significantly reduces visible signs of aging, the natural aging process continues, which may lead to minor changes over time.

Patients often ask why this technique is called a “deep plane.” In the clinic, I explain that the lift happens at the level where facial aging actually starts. Are you worried about looking tight or pulled? When the deeper layer is repositioned, the skin can drape more naturally.

Many patients also ask if this replaces all other treatments. We can't stop time. Skin quality, volume loss, and surface aging may still need separate care, even after a deep plane facelift.

What are the differences of Deep Plane Facelift Technique?

The deep plane technique differs from other facelift techniques because it lifts the deeper facial support layer together with the skin.

In a traditional facelift, the surgeon tightens skin and may adjust the SMAS separately. In a deep plane, the surgeon releases the SMAS and lifts it as one unit with the overlying skin. This reduces tension on the skin surface.

It also allows better correction of midface descent, jowls, and deep smile lines. The goal is movement that looks more natural at rest and when you talk or smile.

Other Related Face lift Techniques:

• High SMAS Facelift

• Mini Facelift

• Endoscopic Facelift

Before and After Pictures of Deep Plane Facelift

Here is a good example of a deep plane facelift in Turkey before and after. A deep plane procedure is the most in-depth, thorough kind of facial rejuvenation. 

Explore our gallery to see the transformative results our expert surgeons achieve. You can check our Facelift Before & After Pictures, Plastic Surgery Before After page or contact us to see special Deep Plane Facelift results.

Check our Trustpilot and Google profile for verified patient stories.

What are the Benefits of Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane face lift offers several advantages by addressing facial aging at a deeper structural level.

• Lifts the cheeks and jawline more effectively, not just the skin

• Softens deep nasolabial folds (smile lines) near the mouth

• Creates a more natural look during facial movement

• Reduces tension on the skin, which can lower the risk of a tight appearance

• Improves midface sagging that is harder to correct with surface lifts

• Often provides longer-lasting improvement compared with skin-only techniques

Comparison of Deep Plane Facelift vs Regular Facelift

Both procedures aim to improve facial aging, but they differ in how deeply the surgeon works and how the lift is achieved.

Why Choose Istanbul for Your Deep Plane Facelift Turkey?

Istanbul has become a leading destination for deep plane facelift surgery because it brings together surgical expertise, modern medical care, and practical advantages for international patients.

Key reasons patients choose Istanbul:

• Surgeons with extensive experience in advanced lifting techniques, including deep plane approaches

• Modern hospitals and clinics that meet international safety and hygiene standards

• Lower overall treatment costs compared with many Western countries

• Multilingual medical teams that support clear communication

• Well-organized treatment and recovery planning for overseas patients

• Easy international access with frequent direct flights

Who is a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift Turkey?

A deep plane facelift is best suited for patients whose facial aging involves deeper structural sagging rather than skin looseness alone. It is perfect for individuals with sagging skin, deep wrinkles, or loss of facial definition.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have noticeable sagging in the cheeks and midface

• Are bothered by jowls and loss of jawline definition

• Have deep nasolabial folds (smile lines) that do not improve with fillers

• Want a natural result without a tight or pulled look

• Have good overall health and can safely undergo surgery

• Understand that aging continues and results change gradually over time

In consultations, I often explain that age alone does not decide candidacy. The pattern of aging, tissue quality, and your goals matter more than the number on your passport.

Who is not a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane technique is not the right choice for everyone, especially when facial aging or health factors do not match the goals of this technique.

You may not be a good candidate if you:

• Have mild skin laxity that could improve with less invasive options

• Expect a dramatic change that surgery cannot realistically deliver

• Have uncontrolled medical conditions that raise surgical risk

• Smoke and are unable to stop before and after surgery

• Prefer minimal downtime or are not ready for a surgical recovery

• Have facial aging driven mainly by surface skin quality, not deeper sagging

In clinic, I often explain that choosing the right procedure matters as much as choosing surgery itself. When expectations, anatomy, and health are not aligned, another approach may offer safer and more satisfying results.

How Much does Deep Plane Facelift Cost?

The cost of a deep plane facelift varies widely by country, with lower average prices in Turkey compared with Europe and the United States.

In most European countries, a deep plane facelift typically costs €15,000–€25,000, depending on the surgeon and clinic. In the United States, prices are usually higher, often ranging from $20,000–$40,000 or more, especially in major cities.

What is the Price of Deep Plane Facelift in Turkey?

In Turkey average costs are commonly lower, often falling in the €7,000–€12,000 range when surgery, hospital care, and aftercare are included.

Patients often ask why the difference is so large between countries. Is the surgery itself different? The main drivers are local costs, medical fees, and medical tourism support of the government, not the facelift technique.

But you cannot decide only with affordable prices. You must be careful about surgeon experience, hospital safety, and structured follow-up.

How is the Average Deep Plane Facelift Prices in the UK?

Most clinics in the UK quote prices in the range of £15,000 to £25,000. In London and other major cities, fees can reach £30,000 or more. 

What Does a Deep Plane Facelift Procedure Involve?

A deep plane procedure involves repositioning the deeper facial support layers to restore more youthful contours.

During the procedure, the surgeon works beneath the SMAS. This layer is carefully released and lifted together with the overlying tissues. By moving these structures as one unit, the surgeon can improve sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and deeper facial folds. The skin is then redraped without excessive tension, and incisions are closed in natural creases.

Which Areas of Face are Targeted in Deep Plane?

A deep plane facelift targets the central and lower face where deeper sagging most affects facial shape.

The technique focuses on the midface, including the cheeks and the area beside the nose and mouth. It also addresses jowls along the jawline by lifting the underlying support layer. 

Deep plane facelift procedure step by step

Surgery follows a structured surgical procedure, with the key difference being work at a deeper anatomical level rather than skin tightening alone.

• Preoperative planning: The surgeon evaluates facial anatomy, aging pattern, and incision placement.

• Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

• Incision placement: Incisions are made around the ear and along the hairline to keep scars discreet.

• Skin elevation for access: The surgeon gently lifts the skin only as much as needed to reach deeper layers.

• Deep plane dissection: The surgeon works beneath the SMAS, the main support layer under the skin.

• Release of retaining ligaments: Key ligaments that hold sagging tissues down are carefully released.

• Repositioning of tissues: The deeper facial tissues and skin are lifted together as a single unit.

• Contour assessment: The surgeon checks balance and symmetry to avoid a tight or unnatural look.

• Skin redraping: Sagging skin is trimmed, and the skin is laid back without tension.

• Closure: Incisions are closed carefully, and dressings are applied.

• Immediate recovery: You are monitored as anesthesia wears off and early aftercare begins.

What are the Risks of Deep Plane Facelift Surgery?

Every surgical procedure carries risks, and patients should understand them clearly before deciding on a deep plane facelift. Most complications are uncommon, and serious problems are rare when surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon in an appropriate medical setting.

Possible risks and complications include:

• Swelling and bruising: Very common early after surgery and usually temporary

• Hematoma (collection of blood): Uncommon but one of the more important early risks

• Infection: Rare, especially with proper sterile technique and aftercare

• Temporary numbness or tightness: Common early on and often improves over weeks to months

• Nerve irritation or weakness: Rare, and most cases are temporary

• Scarring issues: Uncommon, but risk increases with smoking or poor healing

• Delayed wound healing: More likely in smokers or patients with medical conditions

• Asymmetry: Usually mild; significant asymmetry is uncommon

• Need for revision surgery: Rare, but possible in any facelift procedure

How patients can help reduce risks?

I emphasize that safety is a shared responsibility. Choose a surgeon with deep plane facelift experience. Follow pre- and post-operative instructions closely. Stop smoking and nicotine use as advised. Be open about medications and medical history. When patients prepare well and respect recovery guidelines, the risk of complications stays low and outcomes are more predictable.

Deep Plane Facelift Recovery Timeline

Recovering from a deep plane facelift is a process that involves several stages. Each individual’s healing trajectory may vary slightly, but the following offers a general timeline for what most patients can expect:

Immediate Post-Operation (Day 1-3):

• Swelling and Bruising: These are most prominent in the first 72 hours. Cool compresses can help alleviate swelling.

• Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain might be present, managed effectively with prescribed painkillers.

• Dressings and Drains: Surgical dressings are usually in place, and some surgeons might use drains to prevent fluid accumulation.

End of First Week:

• Reduced Swelling: By the end of the week, a significant reduction in swelling and bruising is noticed.

• Stitch Removal: If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they are typically removed 5-7 days post-operation.

• Mobility: Most patients feel up to light activities, but strenuous exercises and heavy lifting are strictly off-limits.

Second Week:

• Continued Healing: Most of the noticeable swelling subsides by the end of the second week.

• Facial Sensation: Some numbness or tingling might be felt; this is a natural part of the healing process.

• Appearance: While the face is still in the healing phase, many patients feel confident enough for social activities or returning to work by the end of this week.

One Month Post-Operation:

• Almost Normal: Most patients feel nearly “back to normal” with only minor tightness or numbness.

• Resuming Activities: Regular activities, including mild exercises, can usually be resumed, but always consult with your surgeon.

• Visible Results: The beneficial effects of the surgery are becoming more evident as the face continues to settle.

Three Months and Beyond:

• Final Contouring: The face should have settled into its new contours, with maximum swelling resolved.

• Scar Maturation: While incisions are usually well-hidden, any remaining redness or firmness in scars will continue to fade. Scar care, as advised by the surgeon, can optimize this process.

• Full Activities: All forms of exercises, including strenuous ones, can usually be resumed.

Six Months to One Year:

• Complete Recovery: Any residual tightness or irregularities generally resolve during this period.

• Optimal Results: The face should now fully reflect the rejuvenated and refreshed appearance aimed for with the surgery.

Throughout the recovery process, periodic check-ups with the surgeon are essential to monitor healing and address any concerns. It’s crucial to strictly adhere to post-operative care guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize complications.

How to Choose the Best Surgeon for a Deep Plane Facelift Surgery?

Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important factors affecting both safety and results in deep plane facelift surgery. This technique requires advanced anatomical knowledge and consistent hands-on experience.

When evaluating a surgeon, patients should pay attention to:

• Specific experience with deep plane facelifts, not just general facelift surgery

• Board certification

• Before-and-after photos of real deep plane facelift patients

• Clear explanation of the technique, risks, and realistic outcomes

• Honest discussion of candidacy, including limits and alternatives

• Hospital or clinic standards

• Follow-up and aftercare planning, especially for international patients

• Communication style, including whether your questions are answered clearly and patiently

In consultations, I often remind patients that this is not a procedure to shop for by price alone. A surgeon who performs deep plane facelifts regularly is more likely to recognize subtle anatomical differences and avoid unnecessary risk. Feeling informed, heard, and medically safe is just as important as liking the before-and-after photos.

FAQ

When can I return to my daily life after a deep plane facelift procedure?

Most patients return to light daily activities within 10–14 days after a deep plane facelift. Swelling and bruising usually improve during this period. Social activities often feel comfortable by 3–4 weeks. 

How long does Deep Plane Facelift last?

Deep plane facelift results can last up to 10-15 years, depending on individual factors such as lifestyle and genetics.

Is deep plane better than regular facelift?

It depends on individual needs. It can achieve more comprehensive and natural-looking results, particularly for those with advanced signs of aging.

What is the average age for a deep plane facelift?

The procedure is commonly performed on individuals in their 50s to 70s, but it ultimately depends on the person’s facial aging.

How painful is a deep plane facelift?

Most patients describe a deep plane facelift as uncomfortable rather than painful. Tightness and pressure are common in the first few days. Pain is usually well controlled with prescribed medication and improves steadily within the first week. Severe or worsening pain is not typical and should be reported.

Does a deep plane facelift look natural?

Yes, by lifting deeper structures, the operation offers more natural and long-lasting results.

Can you have 2 deep plane facelifts?

It’s possible to have a second procedure years later if desired.

Does deep plane facelift lift cheeks?

Yes, it is particularly effective at lifting sagging cheeks.

How long does it take to fully recover from a deep plane facelift?

Full recovery can take 2-4 weeks, with most patients resuming normal activities after 2 weeks.

Does a deep plane facelift improve the neck?

Yes, the procedure can significantly improve sagging and excess skin in the neck area. But it is possible to be combined with a neck lift surgery.

Is it safe to get a deep plane facelift in Turkey?

Yes, a deep plane facelift can be safe in Turkey when performed by an experienced, board-certified surgeon in a properly equipped hospital. Many clinics in Turkey follow international surgical standards. Safety depends on surgeon expertise, anesthesia care, and clear postoperative follow-up, not location alone.

How long does a deep plane facelift take?

The surgery typically takes 4-6 hours.

Is a deep plane facelift worth it?

For many people seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation, it is a worthwhile investment.