"What is the difference between a traditional SMAS facelift and a Deep Plane facelift?
"What are the key differences between a Traditional SMAS Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift? While lifting deeper tissue layers provides more significant and natural-looking rejuvenation, many patients worry about potential facial nerve damage. Does the deep plane technique increase surgical risks?"
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정유석원장 작성일Facelift Specialist Q&A: Deep Plane vs. Traditional Techniques
(Question)
Q1. What is the difference between a traditional facelift and a Deep Plane facelift? Since it pulls deeper layers, is there an increased risk of facial nerve damage?
(Answer)
A1. Hello. I am Dr.Yoosuk Chung, Chief Surgeon at The Line Plastic Surgery. With over 32 years of experience and more than 100,000 successful surgeries in facial and body contouring, I will provide a clear answer based on our 19-year accident-free safety record.
A Deep Plane Facelift is an advanced surgical evolution. Unlike traditional facelifts that only tighten the skin surface, this method corrects the retaining ligaments—the root cause of sagging—resulting in a more powerful yet natural lift without the fear of nerve damage.
Traditional Facelift: Primarily pulls the skin. It has limits in treating deep nasolabial folds and can sometimes result in an unnatural, "pulled" appearance.
Deep Plane Facelift: We release the rigid retaining ligaments located deep within the tissue. This allows the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer to move freely, repositioning the entire facial structure. This fundamentally improves deep nasolabial folds, jowls (bulldog fat), and marionette lines, restoring the 3D facial volume you had 10 years ago.
Regarding facial nerve safety, for a skilled specialist who understands anatomy thoroughly, the "Deep Plane" actually serves as a safe corridor to protect the nerves. At The Line Plastic Surgery, we integrate SVF (Stem Cells) and ECM (Extracellular Matrix) regeneration technology to protect microscopic nerves and vessels, maximizing recovery. Our 32 years of precision prove that this technique offers a vibrant, youthful look while minimizing concerns about side effects.
(Question)
Q2. Is a Deep Plane Facelift effective for improving neck wrinkles?
(Answer)
A2. Yes. Because a Deep Plane Facelift completely dissects the retaining ligaments that hold the skin down, it maximizes the range of skin movement. This allows for the simultaneous improvement of deep nasolabial folds and neck wrinkles—areas often difficult to treat with conventional surgery.
Based on my experience with over 100,000 cases, this technique minimizes skin tension, which prevents "pixie ears" (earlobe distortion) or widened scarring. It is a highly sophisticated solution that naturally repositions the sagging lower face and jawline/neckline area.
(Question)
Q3. How many days after a facelift can I wash my face and apply makeup? When can I return to work?
(Answer)
A3. You can gently wash your face 3 days after surgery (avoiding the incision sites). Once the stitches are removed at the 7-day mark, full face washing, light makeup, and returning to work are generally possible.
During the first week, it is essential to pat the skin dry with a clean towel to avoid pulling on the incisions. While bruising typically fades within 1–2 weeks, applying sunscreen is vital to prevent hyperpigmentation.
At The Line Plastic Surgery, our SVF and ECM regeneration technologies promote microvascular production, significantly reducing swelling and bruising. Most of our patients comfortably return to their professional lives within 7 to 10 days. However, recovery speeds vary by individual, so we recommend coordinating your return-to-work date with your surgeon for the most satisfactory and safe results.
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