Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is an evolution of the traditional deep plane facelift technique. By using only the necessary surgical interventions instead of excessive or unnecessary procedures, this method achieves much more effective and successful results.
Why Is a Facelift Necessary?
The aging process manifests as a loss of skin elasticity, weakening of the underlying tissues, loosening of ligaments, and volume loss, leading to a sagging and tired appearance. Traditional facelift surgeries often rely on pulling the skin, but over time, this can result in an unnatural look. Additionally, facelifts that only stretch the skin do not provide long-lasting success, as sagging can reoccur early on. For these reasons, modern facial surgery has shifted towards techniques that target deeper layers, such as the Deep Plane Facelift, incorporating a more preservation-focused approach.
What Is a Preservation Deep Plane Facelift?
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is a technique that targets deeper facial tissues compared to traditional facelift procedures. In this surgery, not only the skin but also the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) and muscle layers of the face are reshaped. Through precise interventions on facial muscles and connective tissues, a more natural, long-lasting, and effective rejuvenation is achieved. This preservation-based method restores facial contours by repositioning tissues that have moved downward due to gravity, bringing them back to their anatomical locations and restoring the face’s original dynamism.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
This method is ideal for individuals aged 40-80 who experience facial sagging and volume loss. Suitable candidates include those who:
- Have noticeable sagging in their facial structure,
- Experience drooping in the neck and jowl area,
- Have a loss of definition along the jawline,
- Suffer from sagging and volume loss in the cheeks,
- Desire a more natural and long-lasting rejuvenation,
- Wish to maintain their facial architecture while achieving a refreshed look.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 5 hours. The key steps of the procedure are as follows:
- Planning: A detailed facial structure analysis is conducted to determine incision points. Incisions are made along the natural creases in front of and behind the ear, as well as within the hairline, ensuring minimal scarring visibility once healed.
- Skin Incision: One of the biggest advantages of the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift over the standard deep plane facelift is the shorter elevation distance above the SMAS layer, minimizing tissue disruption.
- Releasing the SMAS Layer: The SMAS layer is the primary structure that sags with aging and gravity. This technique carefully separates the SMAS layer while preserving its texture. The supportive ligaments restricting SMAS movement are also released, allowing it to be repositioned freely.
- Repositioning the SMAS Layer: Once freed, the SMAS layer is repositioned to its more youthful placement and secured with fixation sutures. This step restores the cheeks, cheekbones, jawline, and nasolabial area, creating a more dynamic and natural appearance.
- Removing Excess Skin: After repositioning the SMAS, any excess skin is removed. The skin is then sutured delicately without excessive tension, ensuring smooth healing and minimal scarring.
- Hemostatic Sutures Placement: These specialized sutures help prevent bleeding and fluid accumulation between the skin and underlying tissues, reducing post-operative complications. These sutures are typically removed on day 2 after surgery.
Advantages of the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
- Longer-Lasting Results: Compared to traditional facelifts, the effects last significantly longer.
- More Natural Appearance: Instead of simply pulling the skin, this technique restores tissues to their original locations, preserving a natural look.
- Preserved Facial Expressions: The procedure ensures that the facial muscles remain functional, preventing a stiff or artificial appearance.
- Reduced Skin Tension: As there is no excessive tension applied to the skin, the healing process is more comfortable.
- Restored Facial Volume: The technique effectively lifts sagging areas and enhances facial volume for a youthful contour.
Post-Operative Recovery Process
First Week:
- Days 1-3: Swelling and bruising will be most noticeable.
- Cold Compress and Head Elevation: Cold compresses should be applied, and the head should be kept elevated while sleeping to minimize swelling.
- Diet: A low-sodium diet is recommended, and hard or large foods should be avoided.
- Pain Level: The procedure itself causes mild discomfort, but if combined with temporal lift surgery, the discomfort from the temporal lift may be more pronounced.
- Wearing a Post-Operative Mask: A specialized compression mask should be worn as advised to reduce swelling and keep facial structures in place.
- Showering: Patients can wash their hair starting from day 2, but they should avoid pulling on the hair and using strong fragrances or allergens.
First Week Check-Up:
- Facial bandages are removed.
- Swelling and bruising persist but do not interfere with daily activities.
- Strenuous exercises should still be avoided.
Second Week:
- Makeup and light activities are allowed.
- Patients can return to work if they feel comfortable.
- During the two-week follow-up, facial massages are recommended to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling.
- The massage should be performed three times a day for two minutes over two months.
First Month:
- Most swelling subsides, and daily activities become easier.
Second Month:
- Exercise and physically demanding activities can resume.
- Patients can attend large social gatherings, conferences, or public events.
Precautions for Optimal Results
- Use Sunscreen: Protecting the skin from UV exposure is essential.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking delays healing and affects long-term results.
- Sleep on Your Back: Prevents unnecessary pressure on the face.
- Follow Doctor’s Instructions on Facial Massage: Helps maintain results and speed up recovery.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift carries some risks, including infection, hematoma, and nerve injury. However, when performed by an experienced and skilled surgeon, these risks are minimized. A thorough pre-operative evaluation and patient education play crucial roles in reducing complications.
Final Thoughts
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is one of the most effective and long-lasting facelift techniques in modern plastic surgery. It stands out due to its natural appearance, long-term youth-enhancing effects, and preservation of facial architecture. Rather than merely tightening the skin, this approach restores the face’s natural anatomy, making it one of the best anti-aging solutions available today.