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Aging doesn’t just affect the skin—it changes the deeper structures of the face that support expression, volume, and balance. A deep plane facelift is a sophisticated surgical procedure that lifts not only the skin, but also the underlying muscles, connective tissues, and fat pads to restore youthful definition where it matters most. This modern technique creates natural-looking improvements in the cheeks, jawline, and nasolabial folds without the overly tight or “done” look associated with older facelift methods.
Double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Schoemann uses the deep plane technique to create subtle yet transformative outcomes that respect your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. This is more than a surface-level refresh—it’s a structural rejuvenation that enhances your facial harmony and slows the visible effects of aging for over a decade. Whether you’re seeking to refine sagging jowls, soften smile lines, or simply look as energized as you feel, a deep plane facelift offers lasting, elegant results that help you feel like yourself—only younger.
Lifts the underlying facial muscles and superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) along with the skin for long-lasting, natural-looking results
Addresses the jowls, jawline, neck, and nasolabial folds in one surgical session
Can be combined with a neck lift, eyelid lift, or other procedures for comprehensive results.
Resume non-strenuous activities in ~2 weeks; results can last 10–15 years.
Reduces tension on the skin by mobilizing deep tissues for more subtle, natural-looking outcomes
A deep plane facelift is an advanced facelift technique that lifts the facial skin, connective tissue, and muscles as a unified layer. Unlike a traditional facelift, the deep plane technique moves deeper tissues for more natural-looking, enduring rejuvenation, avoiding unnatural tightness while reducing skin laxity and improving facial definition.
This facelift technique corrects signs of facial aging across the lower face and neck by targeting jowls, loose facial muscles, and sagging nasolabial folds. The result? A refreshed look that preserves the unique character of your face, providing enhanced confidence for years to come.
The deep plane facelift procedure is performed under general anesthesia, taking approximately 3 to 6 hours. Surgery time depends on the complexity of the case and whether additional procedures (such as a neck lift or upper or lower eyelid surgery) are performed.
Dr. Schoemann creates discreet incisions along the natural creases around the ears and within the hairline. He then carefully releases key ligaments and repositions the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer and deeper connective tissues. The facial muscles, fat pads, and deeper tissues are lifted in a unified motion, creating structural support and reducing skin tension. This method prevents the overly pulled or "windswept" look sometimes seen with older facelift techniques. Any excess skin is trimmed, and the incisions are meticulously closed with absorbable sutures.
When the surgery is complete, patients are closely monitored in a private recovery suite before being released to return home the same day. Dr. Schoemann and his team ensure you leave with a clear recovery plan in place and follow-up appointments scheduled to check your healing.
This advanced facial plastic surgery technique is particularly effective in treating:
Both men and women can benefit from a deep plane facelift. Candidates typically include patients in their 40s–70s who are dissatisfied with significant signs or facial aging, such as lax facial skin, jowls, or deep nasolabial folds.
Surgical candidates should be in good general health and have realistic expectations for the procedure, recovery process, and results. Smokers will need to quit before surgery to promote good healing.
The best way to determine if a deep plane facelift is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schoemann. At this appointment, Dr. Schoemann will carefully evaluate your skin quality, muscle tone, and goals to recommend a treatment approach tailored to your needs.
Initial recovery from a deep plane facelift takes about two weeks, with the first few days focused on rest and proper incision care. Swelling and bruising tend to peak within the first 72 hours and gradually improve over the following days.
You may be advised to keep your head elevated and limit physical activity to support healing and reduce swelling. Most patients return to non-strenuous work and light activities within 10–14 days, though full recovery may take several weeks. Absorbable sutures are often used, minimizing the need for suture removal, and any visible scars are strategically placed to remain discreet along the hairline and around the ears.
Because the deep plane facelift moves deeper tissues and facial muscles, recovery may feel more intensive than with other facelifts, but the payoff is well worth the downtime. Patients receive detailed aftercare instructions and are monitored closely by Dr. Schoemann to ensure the healing process is smooth, safe, and leads to the best possible cosmetic outcome. While mild tightness or numbness can linger temporarily, most patients feel confident returning to social settings after two to three weeks.
Results become noticeable as swelling subsides, usually within the first few weeks. Most patients begin to see real improvement around one month after surgery, with full results developing gradually over 3–6 months.
This facelift technique addresses not only the facial skin, but also the underlying SMAS layer and connective tissue, delivering more natural results than traditional methods. The cheeks appear lifted, jowls are reduced, the jawline becomes more defined, and nasolabial folds are softened.
The outcome of a deep plane facelift is remarkably long-lasting. Many patients enjoy results that last 10–15 years or more—especially if they maintain a stable weight and protect their skin from sun exposure. The result is a face that looks refreshed, lifted, and vibrant without sacrificing the natural movements and expressions that make you look like yourself.
At Schoemann Plastic Surgery, we specialize in the highly technical deep plane facelift surgery, blending structural science with artistic precision.
Dr. Mark Schoemann and our team prioritize safety at every stage—from pre-op planning to post-op care—ensuring minimal scarring and balanced facial harmony. We tailor each surgical procedure to your anatomy, delivering results that respect and preserve your natural appearance. With decades of experience in both reconstructive and aesthetic facial plastic procedures, we're focused on achieving long-lasting, true-to-you outcomes.
Some discomfort is expected during recovery, but it is well managed with prescribed medications. Most patients are surprised at how comfortable recovery can be.
Most people feel comfortable returning to non-strenuous work in 2–3 weeks, depending on their degree of bruising and swelling.
Deep plane facelift incisions are carefully hidden in the folds around the ears and along the hairline. With proper care, visible scars fade significantly over time.
Optimal results from a deep plane facelift can last 10 years or more, especially with good skincare and lifestyle habits.
Yes. Many patients pair a deep plane facelift with other procedures like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), fat grafting, or a neck lift to rejuvenate multiple areas at once.
Non-surgical treatments like injectable dermal fillers or thread lifts can offer temporary support for early signs of aging, but they can’t replicate the depth or longevity of a surgical lift. For those seeking longer-lasting rejuvenation, a deep plane facelift offers unparalleled benefits.
If you have significant neck sagging, a neck lift can be performed alongside your facelift for more balanced results. Dr. Schoemann will help you decide.
A deep plane facelift lifts the skin, SMAS layer, and deeper facial ligaments together as a single unit, allowing for more natural movement and longer-lasting results—especially in the midface and nasolabial folds. In contrast, a traditional SMAS facelift typically repositions the SMAS separately from the skin. The deep plane technique also releases facial retaining ligaments, enabling more comprehensive repositioning of the fat pads and muscles.
