Deep Plane Facelift at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Deep plane facelift |
| Surgeon | Dr Scott J Turner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) |
| AHPRA registration | MED0001654827 |
| Technique | Sub-SMAS dissection with selected retaining ligament release |
| Focus areas | Midface, jowls, jawline and selected neck concerns, depending on assessment |
| Lifting vector | Vertical, addressing the direction of gravitational descent |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia in an accredited private hospital |
| Surgical time | 3.5 to 5 hours alone; 4 to 6 hours with brow lift |
| Hospital stay | Usually 1 night, confirmed at consultation |
| Return to desk work | Usually 2 to 3 weeks; recovery varies between patients |
| Final appearance | Healing continues over several months |
| Typical candidate age | 45 to 70 years (candidacy depends on anatomy, not chronological age) |
| Consultation locations | Bondi Junction and Manly |
| Surgery performed at | Bondi Junction Private Hospital, Delmar Private Hospital (Dee Why) |
| GP referral | Required (Medical Board and AHPRA requirement) |
| Medicare and private health rebate | Not applicable for cosmetic facelift surgery |
| Indicative cost | Around $35,000 all-inclusive (with neck lift); varies with surgical plan |
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a facelift technique that works beneath the SMAS layer. The surgical plan may involve releasing selected retaining ligaments and repositioning deeper facial tissues. This approach is different from skin-only tightening, and it is assessed according to each patient’s anatomy, tissue position, skin quality and medical history.
The reason the layer matters is that facial change is structural. The retaining ligaments lengthen over time, and the SMAS and the fat pads it carries descend. A technique that works on the skin or the SMAS surface alone addresses the appearance rather than the position of the deeper tissues. A deep plane technique releases selected structures contributing to descent, then repositions the deeper tissues in the opposite direction.
The technique was developed and refined over several decades and is used for patients with changes in the midface, jowls and jawline where deeper tissue descent, rather than skin laxity alone, is the main finding.
How Deep Plane Facelift Surgery Works
Understanding the relevant anatomy helps explain why the deep plane is a distinct surgical layer and why working within it differs from working above it.
The SMAS Layer
The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is a continuous tissue layer beneath the skin. It runs from the platysma muscle in the neck, up through the cheek, and connects with the muscles of the forehead. It carries the facial fat compartments and is continuous with the muscles of facial expression. With time, the SMAS and the tissues it supports descend.
The Deep Plane
The deep plane is a surgical plane beneath the SMAS, above the deeper structures of the face such as the parotidomasseteric fascia and the buccal fat pad. Working in this plane allows the SMAS and the tissues above it to be addressed as a single composite layer rather than as separate layers.
Retaining Ligaments
The retaining ligaments, including the zygomatic, masseteric and mandibular ligaments, anchor the facial tissues to the underlying bone. Releasing selected ligaments may allow the deeper tissues to be repositioned. The exact ligaments released and the extent of dissection depend on the surgical plan determined at assessment.
Preservation vs Extended Deep Plane Facelift
Preservation and extended deep plane describe different surgical planning concepts rather than marketing labels that apply equally to every patient.
A preservation deep plane facelift uses more limited dissection, with the retaining ligaments released selectively to preserve as much native anatomy as possible. An extended deep plane facelift uses more extensive sub-SMAS dissection, releasing the retaining ligaments more fully and accessing the jawline and upper neck more comprehensively.
Recovery and swelling vary between patients with both approaches. The choice depends on anatomy, tissue position, prior surgery, skin quality and the goals discussed in consultation, rather than one approach being a default for everyone.
Deep Plane Facelift vs SMAS Facelift
Deep plane facelift and SMAS facelift are related but distinct surgical approaches. A SMAS facelift usually works with the SMAS layer, by folding (plication) or partially releasing and re-suspending it. A deep plane facelift involves dissection beneath that layer, releasing selected retaining ligaments and repositioning the deeper tissues of the midface and jawline.
The appropriate approach depends on anatomy, tissue position, surgical history and the areas being addressed. The SMAS facelift page covers that technique in detail.
Deep Plane Facelift vs Vertical Restore Facelift
Both the Vertical Restore Facelift and the deep plane facelift use deep plane technique as a foundation, but they describe different planning concepts and scope.
| Feature | Deep Plane Facelift | Vertical Restore Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Lower face and midface, with or without neck | Whole face: brow, eyelids, midface, jowls, jawline, neck |
| Components | Deep plane technique, with optional add-ons | Deep plane, brow lift, blepharoplasty, fat grafting, neck lift |
| Surgical time | 3.5 to 5 hours (4 to 6 with brow) | 5 to 7 hours |
| May be considered for | Midface and lower-face changes, optional neck involvement | Changes across multiple facial zones |
The relevant option depends on the patient’s anatomy, the area being addressed and the surgical plan discussed during consultation.
Deep Plane Facelift Before and After
Deep plane facelift before and after photographs can help patients understand the types of structural changes that may be discussed during consultation. Results vary between patients because anatomy, skin quality, tissue position, healing and surgical planning differ.
When reviewing before and after photographs, it helps to look at:
- Whether the starting concerns are similar to your own.
- Consistent lighting, angle and expression between the photos.
- The length of time since surgery, as the appearance at 3 months differs from 12 months.
- Changes along the jawline, jowls and midface.
- Scars and healing, where visible.
- Whether other procedures were performed at the same time.
A selection of Dr Turner’s facelift results can be viewed in the facelift before and after gallery, and relevant case examples may be discussed during consultation where appropriate. Photographs are of Dr Turner’s patients and are published with consent. They indicate the type of change surgery may produce for a particular anatomy, not a guaranteed or typical outcome.
Optional Combined Procedures
A deep plane facelift may be combined with complementary procedures in a single operation, depending on the areas being addressed. This can reduce overall recovery time compared with staging procedures separately.
- Neck lift surgery for platysmal banding, submental fullness or cervicomental angle changes.
- Facial fat transfer for volume in the midface and temples.
- Upper blepharoplasty for excess upper-eyelid skin.
- Lower blepharoplasty for under-eye fat and lower-eyelid skin.
- Brow lift for brow descent contributing to upper-face heaviness.
When changes span all facial zones from brow to neck, the Vertical Restore Facelift integrates these components as a single comprehensive procedure rather than combining individual procedures during deep plane surgery.
Who May Be Suitable for a Deep Plane Facelift?
Suitability for deep plane facelift surgery depends on anatomy, tissue position, skin quality, medical history, prior surgery and the concerns the patient wants addressed. Dr Turner assesses these factors during consultation before discussing whether a deep plane approach is appropriate.
Considerations assessed at consultation include:
- Midface, jawline and jowl concerns, and whether the neck is involved.
- General health and suitability for general anaesthesia.
- Skin quality and how redraped tissue is likely to settle.
- Smoking status and wound healing considerations.
- Prior facial surgery.
- Realistic expectations about what surgery does and does not address.
A face-to-face consultation following GP referral is required to determine candidacy.
Deep Plane Facelift Recovery Timeline
Recovery after deep plane facelift surgery varies between patients. Swelling, bruising, tightness and temporary altered sensation may occur. Most patients need planned time away from work and social commitments, with follow-up appointments used to monitor healing. A more detailed week-by-week account is set out in the deep plane facelift recovery timeline guide.
First Week After Surgery
A hospital stay of around 1 night is usual, with drains placed and the head kept elevated. Drains are generally removed within 24 to 48 hours. Swelling and bruising build over the first few days, and light walking is encouraged while bending and lifting are avoided.
Two to Three Weeks After Surgery
Sutures are removed in staged fashion across two visits between day 7 and day 14. Swelling begins to settle, and many patients return to desk-based work between weeks 2 and 3. Mineral makeup may be used to camouflage residual discolouration.
Several Months After Surgery
Visible bruising usually resolves by weeks 4 to 6, and light exercise can resume with surgeon approval. By around month 3 much of the swelling has settled and the appearance continues to refine. Tissue settling and scar maturation continue over 6 to 12 months. Recovery is longer when the procedure is combined with brow lift, blepharoplasty or neck lift components, because the surgical area is broader.
Deep Plane Facelift Scars
Incision placement for deep plane facelift surgery depends on the surgical plan and patient anatomy. Incisions are generally placed in natural creases around the ear and extended into the hairline. The incision in front of the ear, around the earlobe and into the temporal and posterior hairline is positioned to sit within natural contours. If a neck lift component is included, a small incision is placed in the natural crease under the chin.
Scar healing varies between patients and may be influenced by skin quality, health factors, smoking history, wound healing and aftercare. Scars appear pink initially and typically fade over months. Scar management may involve silicone products or other topical treatments, and scars are monitored at follow-up visits. Hypertrophic or keloid scarring, while uncommon, is possible.
Deep Plane Facelift Cost in Sydney
Deep plane facelift cost in Sydney varies because each surgical plan is different. Factors may include surgical complexity, operating time, anaesthetist fees, hospital fees, post-operative care and whether another procedure is included.
As an indicative figure, a deep plane facelift with a neck lift component is around $35,000 all-inclusive. A deep plane procedure alone may be lower, and a deep plane facelift combined with brow lift, blepharoplasty or fat grafting will be higher, falling between the standalone figure and the Vertical Restore Facelift at approximately $45,000. This figure is indicative only and covers the surgeon, assistant surgeon, anaesthetist, accredited private hospital fee, garments and standard post-operative care.
Medicare and private health insurance rebates do not apply for cosmetic facelift surgery. A consultation fee applies, and a personalised quote is provided after consultation. A complete cost breakdown is available in the Facelift Cost Sydney 2026 guide.
Risks and Complications
All surgery carries risk. Risks relevant to deep plane facelift surgery, discussed in detail at consultation, may include:
- Bleeding and haematoma. A collection of blood beneath the skin, most common in the first 24 hours, which may require return to theatre.
- Infection. Uncommon in clean facial surgery but possible.
- Scarring. Including the uncommon possibility of hypertrophic or keloid scarring.
- Delayed wound healing. Increased in patients who smoke or have poorly controlled medical conditions.
- Altered sensation or numbness. Around the ears, cheeks and scalp, usually improving over months.
- Facial nerve injury. Temporary or, less commonly, permanent weakness of the muscles of facial expression.
- Asymmetry. Minor asymmetry may persist, as no two sides of any face are identical.
- Hairline or skin changes. Including temporary hair loss near incisions.
- Anaesthetic risks. Associated with general anaesthesia.
- Need for further surgery. To address healing or to revise an outcome.
- Dissatisfaction with the outcome. Where the result does not meet expectations.
Risk is reduced by smoking cessation, optimisation of general health, careful surgical technique, an accredited private hospital setting and structured follow-up. Further information is available on the risks and complications page.
Consultations in Bondi Junction and Manly
Deep plane facelift consultations with Dr Scott J Turner are available at two Sydney locations.
The Bondi Junction clinic is located at 39 Grosvenor Street, a short distance from Bondi Junction station and Westfield. The Manly clinic is located in Suite 504, Level 5, 39 East Esplanade, close to Manly Wharf. Surgery is performed at Bondi Junction Private Hospital and Delmar Private Hospital, Dee Why.
A GP referral is required before booking a consultation, in line with Medical Board and AHPRA requirements introduced for cosmetic surgery in Australia. Dr Turner conducts a minimum of two consultations before proceeding with surgery, both personally.
To request a consultation, contact the practice on 1300 437 758 or [email protected], or visit the contact us page.
Deep Plane Facelift FAQs
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a facelift technique that works beneath the SMAS layer, releasing selected retaining ligaments so deeper facial tissues can be repositioned. It addresses changes in the midface, jowls and jawline at a structural level rather than tightening skin alone. Dr Scott J Turner performs deep plane facelift surgery at Bondi Junction Private Hospital and Delmar Private Hospital, Dee Why.
How does a deep plane facelift differ from a SMAS facelift?
A SMAS facelift works with the SMAS layer by folding or partially releasing it. A deep plane facelift dissects beneath the SMAS and releases selected retaining ligaments, repositioning the deeper tissues of the midface and jawline. The appropriate approach depends on anatomy, tissue position and the areas being addressed, and is assessed at consultation.
What is the difference between preservation and extended deep plane facelift?
Preservation and extended deep plane describe different degrees of dissection and ligament release. A preservation approach is more limited, while an extended approach releases the retaining ligaments more fully and accesses the jawline and upper neck more comprehensively. Recovery and swelling vary between patients. The choice depends on anatomy, tissue position and goals discussed at consultation.
Who may be suitable for a deep plane facelift?
Suitability depends on anatomy, tissue position, skin quality, medical history, prior surgery and the concerns to be addressed, rather than on age alone. Most patients present with midface, jowl or jawline changes. General health, anaesthetic suitability, smoking status and realistic expectations are also assessed. Candidacy is determined at consultation following a GP referral.
Is a neck lift included in a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift can be performed with or without a formal neck lift. For isolated lower-face and midface changes, the facelift alone may be sufficient. Where there is platysmal banding, submental fullness or cervicomental angle change, a deep neck lift may be integrated. Surgical time, recovery and cost vary accordingly. The decision is made at consultation.
What is the recovery timeline for a deep plane facelift?
Recovery varies between patients. Swelling, bruising, tightness and temporary altered sensation may occur. Drains are usually removed within the first two days and sutures over the following one to two weeks. Many patients plan two to three weeks away from work. Healing continues over several months, with follow-up appointments used to monitor progress.
What does a deep plane facelift cost in Sydney?
Deep plane facelift cost in Sydney varies because each surgical plan differs. Factors include surgical complexity, operating time, anaesthetist and hospital fees, post-operative care and whether another procedure is included. An indicative all-inclusive figure is around $35,000 with a neck lift component. Medicare and private health rebates do not apply. A personalised quote is provided after consultation.
Can I see deep plane facelift before and after photos?
A selection of Dr Turner’s facelift results can be viewed in the facelift before and after gallery, and relevant case examples may be discussed during consultation where appropriate. Results vary between patients because anatomy, skin quality, tissue position, healing and surgical planning differ. Before and after photographs indicate the type of change surgery may produce for a particular anatomy, not a guaranteed outcome.
Related Guides
Facelift techniques: Facelift Surgery Sydney (the hub covering all techniques), SMAS Facelift, Vertical Restore Facelift, Short Scar Facelift, Lower Facelift, Ponytail Facelift and Revision Facelift.
Component and complementary procedures: Neck Lift Surgery, Facial Fat Transfer, Upper Blepharoplasty, Lower Blepharoplasty and Brow Lift.
Reading more: Deep Plane Facelift Recovery Timeline, Difference Between Vertical Restore and Deep Plane Facelift Surgery, Preservation Deep Plane Facelift and Facelift Cost Sydney 2026.
