Deep Plane Facelift Manchester
Deep Plane Rhytidectomy


Restore Your Youth
Deep Place Face Lift in Manchester
The deep plane facelift is one of the most sophisticated facial rejuvenation procedures available. Unlike a traditional or skin-only facelift, it targets the deeper structures within the face to reposition sagging tissue and restore a naturally youthful contour. The deep plane facelift delves below the SMAS layer to release and elevate the deeper ligaments and tissues that have shifted with age. This approach can result in more substantial and longer-lasting rejuvenation.
Facial Rejuvenation
What is a Deep Plane Face Lift?
Treatment Overview
Deep Plane Face Lift surgery is a procedure that is performed under general anaesthesia or sedation in our Manchester hospital. This has become the gold standard for facial rejuvenation. The deep plane is the space beneath the SMAS layer of the face. This is the foundation of the facial support and elevation of this layer can help improve the signs of ageing.
Many patients in the Manchester area and beyond are drawn to the deep plane facelift for its reputation of delivering smoother, more youthful facial contours while avoiding an overly “pulled” or artificial appearance. Unlike some older facelift techniques, which sometimes left patients looking tight or stretched, the deep plane approach is designed to restore a naturally refreshed appearance, reduce jowls, and improve deep nasolabial folds with minimal visible scarring.

Facial Ageing
How a Deep Plane Facelift helps
As we grow older, our skin loses elasticity and collagen, facial fat pads shift downward, and support ligaments begin to weaken. Over time, these changes can result in:
- Sagging cheeks – The mid-face has hollowed or flattened appearance.
- Pronounced nasolabial folds – Deeper nose to mouth lines.
- Jowl formation –Loss of jawline definition and sagging of the skin.
- Loss of definition in the neck –Loose skin under the chin and around the neck can create a more aged look.
The deep plane facelift goes beyond repositioning just the superficial layers. We can lift and reposition the sagging fat pads and tissues helping correct the reduce the appearance of jowls, and soften deeper wrinkles like the nasolabial folds.
Types of Facelift
The Differences Between a Deep Plane Facelift and a Traditional Facelift
There are several facelift techniques available in modern aesthetic surgery, and understanding how a deep plane facelift differs can be crucial to making the right decision:
Depth of Tissue Dissection
A traditional facelift typically involves lifting the skin and tightening the layer known as the SMAS. In some versions, the surgeon re-drapes the skin and removes any excess, but the deeper structures remain largely unaddressed.
A deep plane facelift delves below the SMAS to release the deeper ligamentous attachments and reposition the fat pads. This allows for more significant improvement of mid-face sagging and the nasolabial folds.
Longevity of Results
With a traditional facelift, results are generally good, but some patients may notice that certain areas begin to sag again relatively quickly if the deeper layers are not released and lifted.
A deep plane facelift, because of its more extensive repositioning of deeper tissues, can often yield longer-lasting results.
Natural Appearance
A traditional facelift can sometimes produce a more “windswept” look if too much tension is placed on the superficial layers.
The deep plane facelift technique aims to restore a more youthful facial shape by lifting deeper structures, thus reducing the need to pull the skin taut. The final result can be exceptionally natural.
Recovery Times
Because the deep plane facelift is a more meticulous procedure, it may involve a slightly longer or more complex recovery. Some swelling and bruising can be more pronounced initially because the deeper layers have been manipulated.
However, many patients find that the improved and more natural-looking results are worth the additional complexity.
To find out more information about Deep Plane Facelift Manchester patients should book a consultation, please contact us via our contact form.
Deep Plane Facelift Journey
Your Deep Plane Face Lift Surgery
Consultation
Before deciding on any plastic surgery, a detailed consultation is essential. During this appointment, you will:
Discuss Your Goals
Our surgeon needs to understand what bothers you about your face, what changes you desire, and what aesthetic outcome you hope to achieve.
Review Your Medical History
A comprehensive review of your health status, current medications, and any underlying conditions is vital to ensure you are a suitable candidate.
Examination of Facial Anatomy
Our surgeon will examine your face, checking skin quality, muscle function, and underlying bone structure.
Discussion of Options
Our surgeon will outline the various options. While a deep plane facelift may be ideal for some individuals, others might benefit from alternatives like an SMAS facelift, mini facelift, or complementary procedures.
Informed Consent
You should be fully informed about the potential risks, complications, recovery times, and what to expect in the short and long term.
Surgical Plan and Quotation
If you decide to move forward, we will provide a personalised treatment plan along with a quote detailing the total cost of the procedure.
Preop
If you and your surgeon decide that a deep plane facelift is the right procedure for you, there are steps you can take to optimise your results and minimise risks:
Follow Medical Advice
Our surgeon will ask you to stop smoking or to adjust certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in light exercise can help keep your body strong, promoting better healing after surgery.
Arrange Support
The deep plane facelift is a more involved procedure, you will need assistance getting home after the operation. You may also need help during the initial days of recovery.
Prepare Your Recovery Space
Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods, comfortable pillows, and any over-the-counter medications or supplements your surgeon has recommended. Having a restful recovery area set up before your surgery can make the post-operative period much smoother.
Deep Plane Procedure
On the day of surgery, you will meet your anaesthetist and the surgical team in the theatre or hospital where the procedure will be performed. Here is a general outline of what to expect:
Anaesthesia
A deep plane facelift typically requires a general anaesthetic, though some surgeons may use local anaesthesia with sedation for specific cases.
Incision Placement
The surgeon usually begins incisions in the hairline at the temples, extending down around the ears, and into the lower scalp. The aim is to place incisions in natural creases or hair-bearing areas to make them as inconspicuous as possible once healed.
Deep Dissection
After lifting the skin, the surgeon releases and repositions the deeper tissues and ligaments beneath the SMAS. This is the critical step that sets a deep plane facelift apart from other techniques.
Repositioning of the Facial Tissues
The deep structures, such as fat pads that have descended, are lifted and secured in a higher, more youthful position.
Skin Redraping and Closure
Once the deeper layers are repositioned, the surgeon carefully redrapes the skin, removing any excess without pulling the face unnaturally tight. The incisions are then closed with sutures or staples.
Dressings and Drains
Small drains may be placed behind the ears to remove any excess fluid. You may also have a soft bandage wrapped around your head to provide gentle support and minimise swelling.
A deep plane facelift can take several hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional procedures (such as a neck lift or eyelid surgery) are performed simultaneously.
Recovery and Aftercare
The deep plane facelift is more in-depth, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort following surgery. However, we will provide pain relief and specific instructions to help manage these symptoms. Below is a general timeline:
First 48 Hours
You may feel groggy or slightly nauseated if you had a general anaesthetic. Rest is essential. You should keep your head elevated to help reduce swelling. Pain medication can help control any discomfort.
Week One
Most patients experience noticeable swelling and bruising during the initial days. Bruising may be more significant if you bruise easily or if certain blood-thinning medications are involved. You will likely have a follow-up appointment to check the incision sites and remove drains if present.
Week Two
Swelling and bruising usually begin to subside. You may feel more comfortable moving around, but strenuous activity or bending should be avoided. Stitches are often removed during this period if not dissolvable.
Week Three and Beyond
You can gradually resume light exercise and daily tasks. Significant swelling should have diminished, though some residual swelling may persist for several weeks or months. Incision lines should be healing well, and you can use recommended products to help minimise the appearance of scars.
Long-Term Healing
By around six weeks, you will have a clearer picture of your surgical results. Over the coming months, your face will continue to settle into its new contours, revealing the final, refreshed appearance. It is essential to maintain follow-up appointments with your surgeon in Manchester or your local area to track the progress of your healing.


Combination Procedures
Many patients choosing a deep plane facelift also consider complementary treatments to enhance their results further. These may include:
Neck Lift: A dedicated neck lift can further refine and tighten the neck area.
Blepharoplasty: Eyelid surgery can be performed to reduce hooded eyelids.
Fat Grafting: Fat graftingto the face to restore volume lost through ageing. This can help with hollows under the eyes, flat cheeks, or deep lines.
Brow Lift: A brow lift can rejuvenate a heavy or drooping brow, improving the upper face and forehead region.
Deep Plane Facelift
Prices from
£15000
Confidence Restored
Deep Plane Face Lift
The deep plane facelift is one of the most advanced and comprehensive facelift techniques available, offering long-lasting and natural-looking results by addressing the deeper structures of the face. Ideal for those experiencing significant signs of ageing such as deep nasolabial folds, sagging cheeks, and pronounced jowls, it is a procedure that can help restore a youthful facial contour without the tell-tale signs of an “overdone” facelift.
Patients considering a deep plane facelift in Manchester have access to a wealth of expertise and state-of-the-art facilities at Deansgate Hospital. Thorough consultation, surgical planning, and committed aftercare are all part of ensuring a smooth experience and optimal results.
Deep Plane Facelift
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a deep plane facelift leave visible scars?
Incisions are generally placed in discreet areas along the hairline and around the ears, so the scars are usually well concealed. Over time, they tend to fade, becoming even less noticeable. There will always be some scars as they are permanent.
Can men also benefit from a deep plane facelift?
Absolutely. The deep plane facelift is a popular option for men who wish to address sagging in the mid-face or jowls while keeping a natural appearance. Surgeons can adapt incision placement and technique to accommodate shorter hairlines or beards.
What are the potential complications of deep plane facelift surgery?
Deep Plane Facelift, like any surgery, may result in potential complications, although these are uncommon. The main complications include:
Bleeding and haematoma formation
A haematoma is a collection of blood that may form under the skin, and this may require surgery to stop any bleeding.
Infection
The risk of infection is rare. You will normally be given some antibiotics during the procedure to reduce this risk further.
Scarring
There will always be some permanent scars but rarely they may become more raised or lumpy.
Nerve Injury
This is rare but since the deep plane is in the area of the facial nerve there always risk of injury. This can lead to loss of movement of the facial muscles. Some change in feeling to the skin is expected.
Changes with Time
The ageing process continues and the results of a facelift are not permanent.
Can I fly after a facelift?
We would recommend waiting for six weeks before flying long haul. You may be able to travel short-haul after four weeks.
When can I exercise after my facelift surgery?
The normal recommendation is six weeks for strenuous physical activity. Exercising earlier may cause increases in blood pressure and heart rate that may increase the risk of bleeding.
How long does a deep plane facelift last?
The longevity of a facelift depends on many factors such as skin quality, smoking, age, technique and much more. Therefore, it is difficult to predict how long the facelift will last.
What is best age for a deep plane facelift?
There is no universal “best” age for a facelift. Most candidates range from their 40s to 60s, although patients both younger and older can be suitable, depending on their degree of facial ageing and skin quality.
Do I need a bandage after a facelift?
You will usually have a head garment after surgery. This is usually kept on for the first week until your dressing change. Some surgeon recommend a head garment for a few weeks following surgery, mostly at night.
How much does a deep plane facelift cost?
The cost of the procedure will vary slightly to the experience of the surgeon, type of anaesthetic and if combination treatments are performed. You will receive a quote after your consultation.
When can I go back to work after surgery?
We usually recommend about two weeks off from work following a facelift. There may be some bruising in the first week and you will have a head bandage and stitches.
Start Your Journey
Private Hospital Manchester
Our team of specialists are waiting to help you with your health and wellbeing journey. Begin your journey by completing the enquiry form and a member of team will contact you to provide you with more information. Our patient liaison will discuss your goals and guide you to find the right specialist and treatment. At Deansgate Hospital, we provide exceptional private healthcare in the heart of Manchester.