In today’s world of aesthetic surgery, there is a growing demand for natural-looking and less invasive procedures. Patients now prioritize subtle enhancements that preserve individuality while addressing early signs of aging. The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is an evolution of modern deep plane facelift techniques. It offers quicker recovery times and carefully preserves the face’s natural contours, proportions, and unique features.
Dr. Turner, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney, Australia, brings expertise in modern deep plane facelift techniques. This article explores how the Preservation Facelift achieves rejuvenation of the midface, lower face, and neck, and avoids the overly tight, stretched, or artificial look often associated with traditional facelifts.
What is Preservation Deep Plane Facelift?
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift builds on the principles of the modern deep plane facelift while introducing refinements that prioritize the natural anatomy of the face. Both techniques focus on repositioning the deeper layers of the face—the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS). However, the Preservation Facelift sets itself apart by minimizing disruption to facial tissues and preserving critical anatomical structures like malar fat compartments.
Minimal Skin Undermining
One of the defining features of the Preservation Facelift is its focus on minimal skin undermining. This technique maintains the natural blood supply to the skin, promoting healthier tissue during the healing process. It not only reduces the risk of complications but also contributes to a smoother recovery with less bruising and swelling.
Vertical Lifting and Repositioning
This approach emphasizes vertical lifting and repositioning of facial tissues, aligning with the natural downward direction of facial aging. By targeting the deeper layers, this technique restores a lifted, balanced appearance, avoiding the overly tightened look often associated with the horizontal lifting of traditional facelift procedures.
Releasing Retaining Ligaments
To achieve effective and long-lasting results, the Preservation Facelift involves releasing specific retaining ligaments. This allows for more comprehensive repositioning of deeper tissues, improving the overall contour and structure of the face.
Preserving Natural Fat Compartments
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift maintains the natural fat compartments of the face, particularly the malar fat pad, by preserving its connection to the underlying SMAS and overlying skin. This approach ensures volume harmony across the face, preventing the hollowed or gaunt appearance that can occur with more aggressive techniques.
Differences Between Deep Plane Facelift and Preservation Facelift?
Both the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift and the standard deep plane facelift aim to lift and reposition deep facial tissues to rejuvenate the midface, lower face, and neck. However, they differ significantly in their approach to superficial dissection, SMAS manipulation, and recovery time.
Skin Undermining
- Deep Plane Facelift: This technique involves wider skin dissection, separating the skin from underlying tissues to access the deep SMAS layer. This additional dissection can increase tension on the skin, potentially leading to a “tightened” or flattened appearance.
- Preservation Facelift: There is less skin elevation, ensuring that tension is applied to deeper tissue layers only, rather than the skin itself.
SMAS Dissection
- Deep Plane Facelift: The deep plane entry point is at the junction of the fixed and mobile SMAS in the face, typically along a line from the outer eye to the angle of the mandible. This landmark ensures reliable access for lifting deeper facial tissues.
- Preservation Facelift: This technique uses a high SMAS incision (closer to the ear by 1.5 cm) combined with ligament release to create the deep plane SMAS composite flap. This allows vertical elevation while protecting the malar fat pad and offering a shorter recovery period.
Recovery
- Deep Plane Facelift: Often results in longer recovery times, with more swelling and bruising.
- Preservation Facelift: With minimal skin elevation and composite tissue lifting, the Preservation Facelift offers a faster recovery, reduced swelling, and minimal bruising, allowing patients to return to normal activities more quickly.
The Ideal Candidate for a Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is a highly customized procedure designed to cater to specific candidates who meet certain criteria:
- Younger Patients: This technique is particularly effective for individuals in their 40s to early 50s who are beginning to experience mild to moderate facial sagging or a loss of definition in the jawline.
- Desire for Subtle Enhancements: Ideal candidates seek a refreshed appearance without drastic changes to their natural features. The Preservation Facelift provides subtle yet transformative results that maintain the individuality of each patient.
- Good Physical Health: Candidates must be in overall good health with no medical conditions that could impair wound healing or increase surgical risks.
- Positive Emotional Well-being: Realistic expectations and a healthy psychological outlook are essential. As of July 1, 2023, all patients must undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure they are mentally prepared for the surgery and recovery process.
- Stable Weight: Maintaining a stable weight is important, as significant weight fluctuations after surgery can impact the longevity and quality of the results. It is advisable to be near your ideal weight before undergoing the procedure.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking and vaping are known to interfere with healing and significantly increase the risk of complications. Candidates must stop smoking at least six weeks before and after surgery to optimize recovery and surgical outcomes.
Advantages of Preservation Facelift?
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift stands out as an advancement in facial rejuvenation, offering a refined approach that prioritizes minimal dissection and quicker recovery. By preserving the face’s natural anatomy, including vital fat compartments and structural ligaments, this technique avoids the overstretched or artificial appearance often associated with older facelift techniques.
Next Steps
Contact our clinic today to schedule your consultation with Dr Turner to explore how the Preservation Facelift can help you achieve subtle yet transformative results.
- Schedule a Consultation: Book your appointment with Dr Turner at his Manly Clinic in Sydney, Australia
- Prepare for Surgery: Follow any preoperative guidelines provided, such as avoiding certain medications and arranging for post-surgery care.
- Plan for Recovery: Set aside time for rest and healing and arrange for assistance during your initial recovery phase if needed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs. A formal quote will be provided after your consultation with Dr Turner that gives a better estimate of costs involved in your planned procedure.
