Deep Plane Facelift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY

Dr. Levine is a nationally recognized expert in Facelift. For more information about this procedure please view our Facelift page.

Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift is a procedure that has gained popularity as a reliable option for those looking for a more natural and lasting solution to facial aging. Unlike traditional facelifts that focus primarily on the surface layers of the skin and musculature, this advanced technique targets the even deeper layers of skin, muscles, and fat to create enduring rejuvenation. (1)

Double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, Dr. Jennifer Levine’s unparalleled expertise makes her one of New York City’s leading facial surgeons. She is well known for her meticulous approach to deep plane facelifts that minimize scarring, offer long-term support, and help patients feel like their best selves.

If you are interested in exploring your deep plane facelift options with Dr. Levine, please schedule a consultation online or call our office at (212) 517-9400.

How the Deep Plane Facelift Works

This advanced surgical technique comprehensively addresses facial aging by elevating the deeper layers of the face beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), including muscles and fat pads. By releasing key retaining ligaments, Dr. Levine repositions the midface, jawline, and neck tissues as a unified structure, restoring youthful contours in both the face and neck. Unlike traditional facelifts that rely on skin tension, the deep plane approach redistributes support to deeper structures, preserving the skin’s mobility and natural expression. (2) A major benefit of this approach is that it avoids the “tight” or “pulled” look that can sometimes occur with traditional, more superficial facelifts. Tension minimization not only improves the look but may also enhance the recovery experience.

Who Should Consider a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is an excellent option for those with moderate to severe signs of aging, such as sagging cheeks, jowls, or loose neck skin. It is especially beneficial for patients looking for a natural, youthful appearance without an overly tight look. While there is no “perfect” age for a facelift, the age group that finds the most benefit typically ranges from the late 40s to mid-60s and beyond, or when signs of aging become more pronounced. But age is not the only factor; ideal candidates should also be in good overall health and be nonsmokers.

Individuals who might not be right for the procedure include those with certain medical conditions, including heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or bleeding disorders, as they could face higher risks during surgery and prolonged or complicated recovery.

For eligible candidates in New York City considering a facelift, Dr. Levine’s deep plane technique stands out for its ability to provide comprehensive rejuvenation by lifting the deeper facial structures. Contact our office to learn more.

Schedule Your Deep Plane Facelift Consultation in NYC

During your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Levine, who will explain the procedure to you and evaluate your facial anatomy. Dr. Levine values a detailed consultation process in which her patients feel supported and informed about their options. This is a great opportunity for you to ask questions, share your concerns, and gain insights into your surgical and nonsurgical options.

If you are ready to learn more about what a deep plane facelift can do for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Levine today.

Preparation

Once you and Dr. Levine have decided that a deep plane facelift is right for you, you will need to begin preparing yourself for surgery about a month before your procedure. If applicable, you will need to quit smoking at least six weeks before your procedure, as well as cease alcohol consumption. Another important way to prepare yourself for surgery is to follow a balanced, nutrient-rich diet and stay hydrated. If necessary, please complete any pre-procedure tests, schedule transportation home, arrange assistance, and take time off to focus on your recovery.

Procedure

Dr. Levine performs deep plane facelifts in our private surgical suite just across from the main office. Before your procedure, anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort. Dr. Levine is one of the few surgeons in the area with the expertise to use twilight anesthesia for facelift procedures.

Dr. Levine will make the pre-planned incisions, carefully lifting the skin layer from the underlying tissue. She will reposition the skin, SMAS, deeper layers, and fat in a way that improves facial hollowing and creates a more youthful, defined look. She will also remove excess skin as needed. Dr. Levine meticulously closes incisions, preserving the hairline and hiding scarring around the ears.

Recovery

Most patients find recovery after a deep plane facelift to be quicker than traditional facelifts. The reduced tension on the skin allows for faster healing, with most individuals returning to normal activities within just a few weeks. Some swelling and bruising may persist, but most patients see significant improvements early in the recovery period. As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including nerve injury or prolonged swelling, but choosing an experienced facelift surgeon like Dr. Levine will minimize these.

Results

A deep plane facelift typically delivers results that last between 10 and 15 years. The procedure essentially turns back the clock, so in actuality, you will be benefiting from the results for even longer. By repositioning deeper facial structures, not just the skin, the deep plane facelift creates longer-lasting results compared to traditional facelifts.

It is important to note that the longevity of the outcome can vary depending on factors like genetics, lifestyle, and skin quality.

Corresponding Procedures

For patients seeking corresponding procedures, Dr. Levine offers a variety of options that work well when performed alongside the deep plane facelift. We invite you to schedule a consultation to find out if any of these procedures may be right for you.

Brow Lift

Also known as a forehead lift, this surgical procedure rejuvenates the appearance of the forehead and eyebrows. Over time, skin in the upper face sags and creases form on the forehead, creating a weary and tired look. A brow lift smoothes wrinkles by removing excess skin and lifting sagging eyebrows. When paired with a deep plane facelift, the brow lift can help provide upper face rejuvenation that complements the improved lower face.

Eyelid Lift

Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, is popular for its ability to produce drastically rejuvenating effects around the eyes. This procedure addresses sagging eyelids, undereye bags, and protruding fat pads, allowing patients to look more alert and youthful. Blepharoplasty complements the deep plane facelift by opening up the eyes and contributing to a defined, refreshed look.

Ultherapy PRIME

For patients seeking facial rejuvenation without surgery, Ultherapy PRIME is an advanced non-surgical option that targets the deeper layers of tissue. Ultherapy PRIME stimulates collagen production deep within the skin, lifting and tightening areas like the brow, chin, and neck. This makes it one of the most effective non-invasive alternatives to a surgical facelift. Over the course of two to three months, the skin gradually lifts and tightens as collagen production increases, with results that can last up to a year or more. While Ultherapy PRIME can offer significant improvements, especially for mild to moderate skin laxity, it is not a replacement for the more dramatic and long-lasting results that a surgical facelift can provide.

Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift in New York City

The total price of a deep plane facelift procedure depends on the specific surgical plan you and Dr. Levine decide on. After establishing the details of your procedure, she will provide a comprehensive cost breakdown. Each patient’s path is unique, and it is crucial that you schedule a consultation with Dr. Levine to choose the best way forward. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our NYC office at (212) 517-9400.

FAQ

What areas does a deep plane facelift treat?

This procedure primarily improves the appearance of the lower face, including the cheeks, jowls, jawline, and neck.

Why should I choose Dr. Levine as my surgeon?

Double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, Dr. Jennifer Levine has more than 25 years of experience with a surgical focus exclusively on the face. This gives her a deep understanding of the nuances of facial anatomy and how to adjust them to achieve impressive, transformative, yet natural-looking results.

What makes a deep plane facelift different from other techniques?

Deep plane facelifts address deeper layers of tissue to create more pronounced rejuvenation and longer-lasting results, whereas other facelift techniques tend to be more superficial. With a traditional facelift, patients risk developing a “pulled” look over time, while a deep plane facelift minimizes skin tension and allows for natural expression and graceful aging.

References

  1. Raggio BS, Patel BC. Deep Plane Facelift. [Updated 2023 Apr 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545277/
  2. Ackerman BM, Savalia NB. Systematic Approach to Deep Plane Facelift. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2025 Aug;49(16):4579-4586. doi: 10.1007/s00266-025-04793-0. Epub 2025 Mar 25. PMID: 40133535; PMCID: PMC12454624. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40133535/