Protective Deep Plane Facelift is the evolution of the traditional deep plane facelift technique. In this method, instead of unnecessary or overly applied procedures, only the required surgical techniques are used, ensuring that the results obtained are much more effective and successful.
The aging process manifests itself with decreased skin elasticity on the face, weakening of the subcutaneous tissues, loosening of ligaments, and volume loss, creating a sagging and tired appearance. Although traditional facelift surgeries are usually performed by stretching the skin, over time they result in unnatural outcomes, and long-lasting success cannot be achieved with interventions that only stretch the skin; sagging may recur early. For these reasons, in modern facial surgery, the “Deep Plane Facelift” intervening in deeper layers and the protective approach have come to the forefront.
What is Protective Deep Plane Facelift?
Protective Deep Plane Facelift is a technique targeting deeper tissues compared to classical facelift surgeries. In this surgery, not only the skin but also the lower layers of the face, the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) tissue and muscle layers, are reshaped. Thanks to delicate interventions on the facial muscles and connective tissues, a more natural, long-lasting, and effective rejuvenation is achieved. This protective method restores facial contours to their former dynamism by repositioning tissues that have shifted downward due to gravity to more anatomical locations.
Who is Protective Deep Plane Facelift Suitable For?
This method is ideal for individuals in the middle and advanced age group (40-80) who have sagging and volume loss in their face. Candidates generally:
- Experience noticeable sagging in the facial contour,
- Have sagging in the neck and jowl areas,
- Experience loosening and lack of definition in the jawline,
- Have sagging and volume loss in the cheek area,
- Desire more permanent and natural rejuvenation,
- Wish to renew their face without disturbing its original architecture.
How is the Surgery Performed?
Protective Deep Plane Facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia and lasts approximately 5 hours. The basic steps of the procedure are as follows:
Planning:
The patient's structural analysis is performed, and incision points are determined. Incisions are made along the ear line and hidden inside the hairline. These incisions are made in front of and behind the ear in accordance with the natural folds of the ear. This minimizes the visibility of scars in a healed facelift patient.
Creating Skin Incision:
One of the biggest advantages of Protective Deep Plane Facelift over normal deep plane facelift is the shorter distance of skin lifting over the SMAS tissue. This limits the skin delamination area.
Releasing the SMAS Layer:
As we age and with gravity, the main sagging layer is the SMAS tissue. In Protective Deep Plane Facelift, the SMAS layer is dissected in a textured manner. When the SMAS layer is lifted, ligaments that restrict tissue movement are reached. By releasing these ligaments, the SMAS tissue becomes movable.
Repositioning the SMAS:
After the SMAS layer is freed, it is repositioned and fixed with sutures. Correct placement of the SMAS tissue and facial muscles results in a much more dynamic and natural appearance. Cheeks, cheekbones, jawline, and nasolabial region are reshaped.
Removing Excess Skin:
With the tightening and repositioning of the SMAS, excess skin forms. The excess skin is removed. The skin is sutured with very fine stitches without tension. Not suturing the skin tightly ensures a high-quality and aesthetic scar.
Placement of Hemostatic Precise Sutures:
These sutures pass broadly through the skin and underlying tissues. They prevent bleeding and fluid accumulation between the skin and underlying tissues (these sutures are removed on the 2nd day).
Advantages:
- Longer-lasting effect: More permanent than classic facelift surgeries.
- More natural results: Moving tissues to their original places instead of just stretching the skin ensures a natural appearance.
- Preservation of facial expressions: Appropriate intervention on muscle tissue prevents a stiff or artificial expression.
- Less tension: Since the skin is not excessively stretched, healing is more comfortable.
- Support of facial volume: Deep plane facelift tightens sagging areas and restores volume.
Postoperative Process:
First 1 Week:
- Swelling and bruising become more pronounced in the first 3 days.
- Cold application and resting position: cold compress should be applied, physical movements should be restricted to keep blood pressure and pulse low, and the head should be kept elevated while sleeping.
- Nutrition: a salt-free diet should be preferred during this period, and large and hard foods should be avoided.
- Pain level: Deep plane facelift surgery causes superficial pain. However, if this procedure is combined with temporal lift, temporal pain may be more dominant.
- Mask usage: The mask provided after surgery should be used regularly; this helps reduce edema and stabilize the face.
- Bathing and washing: Patients can wash including hair from the 2nd day. Care should be taken not to pull hair during showering and to avoid scented shampoos with allergenic properties.
1st Week
The face tapes are removed. Swelling and edema continue but patients can carry out daily activities without problems; exercise should be avoided.
2nd Week:
Makeup and light activities are allowed. Returning to work is possible. At the 2nd week control, facial massage is recommended to reduce edema and aid lymphatic drainage. This massage should be applied 3 times a day for 2 minutes for 2 months.
1st Month:
Facial edema decreases. Most daily activities can be resumed.
2nd Month:
Sports and heavy physical activities can be resumed. Participation in meetings and events is possible.
Precautions:
- Use sunscreen,
- Avoid smoking,
- Do not sleep face down,
- Regularly perform doctor-recommended facial massages.
Risks and Complications:
As with every surgical operation, Protective Deep Plane Facelift carries risks such as infection, hematoma, and nerve damage. However, when performed by experienced and expert surgeons, these risks are minimized. Detailed preoperative evaluation and patient education play a critical role in preventing complications.
Protective Deep Plane Facelift is one of the most effective and lasting facelift methods offered by modern plastic surgery. A more natural appearance, long-lasting youthfulness, and preservation of facial architecture are factors that make this technique special. Preferring protective deep plane techniques in facelift surgeries helps patients achieve more satisfying and natural results. This method aims not only to lift the face but also to reposition anatomical structures to their correct places, making it one of the most successful anti-aging solutions.
