Medically reviewed by Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS — double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Beverly Hills & Santa Monica · 2026-10-16
Quick answer: A deep plane facelift releases and repositions the deeper facial tissues (the SMAS layer) as a unit, which can give a more natural, longer-lasting lift — especially in the midface and jawline — than a traditional facelift that mainly tightens skin and the SMAS separately. It’s more technically demanding; which is right depends on your anatomy.
What a traditional facelift does
A traditional (SMAS) facelift tightens the skin and the underlying SMAS layer, improving jowls and the lower face. It’s well-established and effective for many patients.
What makes the deep plane different
The deep plane technique releases the ligaments and lifts the deeper tissue layer as a unit, repositioning the midface and jawline rather than just tightening. Done well, it can look more natural and last longer, avoiding a ‘pulled’ appearance.
Which is right for you
Neither is universally better — it depends on your anatomy, degree of aging, and goals. The deep plane is more technically demanding, so surgeon experience is especially important here.
The natural-result factor
With either technique, a natural result comes from repositioning, not over-tightening. An experienced surgeon matches the technique to your face.
Key points
- Traditional lift: tightens skin + SMAS layer
- Deep plane: releases and repositions deeper tissue as a unit
- Deep plane can look more natural and last longer in the right candidate
- More technically demanding — surgeon experience is key
Frequently asked questions
Is a deep plane facelift better?
It can give a more natural, longer-lasting result for the right patient, but it’s not universally better — anatomy decides.
Is the recovery different?
Recovery is broadly similar; your surgeon reviews specifics.
Does a deep plane lift last longer?
It can, because it repositions deeper structures rather than only tightening.
Which do I need?
An in-person exam of your facial anatomy and goals determines the right technique.
Related on this site: Facelift · facelift cost · midface lift.
Talk to a specialist in Beverly Hills
To find out which facelift technique fits your face, Dr. Zandifar sees patients in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica and reviews your anatomy in person before recommending anything. Request a consultation.
Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Educational information only, not medical advice.
