If you have been researching facelift surgery, you have probably come across the term “deep plane facelift” and wondered how it differs from a traditional facelift. Both procedures aim to rejuvenate the face, but they lift the deeper tissues in different ways. What actually separates the two? Which concerns does each one address? And how do you know which approach suits your face?
This guide explains the differences plainly, so you can go into your free consultation knowing what to ask.
Why the face ages beneath the surface
Facial ageing is not only a skin issue. Over time, the deeper tissues that support the cheeks, jawline and neck begin to descend. This is what leads to many of the changes people notice in the mirror:
- Drooping cheeks and a flatter midface
- Deeper nasolabial folds, the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Jowls forming along the lower face
- A less defined jawline and neck
Tightening the surface skin can only do so much when the structures underneath have shifted. This is why both a traditional facelift and a deep plane facelift work on the deeper layers of the face, not just the skin.
Traditional facelift: lifting the skin and deeper tissues
A traditional facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, lifts sagging skin, redefines facial contours and softens deep folds such as nasolabial lines, jowls and marionette lines.
What does the procedure involve?
A facelift at Signature Clinic is performed under local or general anaesthesia and typically takes 2-3 hours. During the procedure:
- Incision placement: A discreet incision is made around the hairline and in front of the ears, sometimes extending slightly behind them depending on your anatomy
- Lifting and repositioning: Your surgeon lifts the skin and repositions the deeper muscles and tissues to redefine the jawline, cheeks and lower face
- Skin removal: Excess skin is removed for a smoother, firmer look
- Closure: The incisions are closed with fine sutures
Results typically last around 10 years, with natural ageing continuing over time.
Facelift cost UK
At Signature Clinic, a full facelift is £5,750 and a face and neck lift is £9,450. For patients who prefer general anaesthesia, the Facelift SMAS (GA) is £8,995 and the Face and Neck Lift SMAS (GA) is £11,495. All prices include your consultation, anaesthesia, surgery and aftercare, with no hidden fees.
Prices shown were correct at the time of publishing. Please refer to our facelift procedure page for the most up-to-date pricing.
Deep plane facelift: lifting from within
In a deep plane facelift, your surgeon lifts and repositions the deeper structures of the face, including the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) and connective tissues, together as a single unit. The skin is then redraped without tension.
Who is it suitable for?
You may be a good candidate for a deep plane facelift if you:
- Have moderate to significant facial ageing
- Notice your cheeks have dropped or lost definition
- Have deep nasolabial folds or jowls
- Want to restore definition along your jawline and neck
- Want a refreshed result that still looks like you
What does the procedure involve?
A deep plane facelift can be performed under local or general anaesthesia and typically takes 3-4 hours. During the procedure:
- Your surgeon makes discreet incisions around the ears and hairline
- The deeper layers, the SMAS and facial muscles, are lifted and repositioned as a single unit
- Excess skin is redraped without tension for a natural finish
- The incisions are closed with fine sutures
Because the deeper layers are lifted together, the skin itself is not pulled tight. The result aims to look smoother and move naturally with your expressions.
Deep plane facelift cost UK
At Signature Clinic, the Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift starts from £12,500. This includes your consultation, surgery and full aftercare, with no hidden fees. Please note the procedure includes both the face and neck.
For patients who prefer general anaesthesia, the Deep Plane Facelift (GA) is £14,995 and the Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift (GA) is £16,995.
Prices shown were correct at the time of publishing. Please refer to our deep plane facelift procedure page for the most up-to-date pricing.
Our in-house Signature Finance Plan offers 0% APR with no credit checks on procedures from £2,200. We also work with Humm, an independent finance provider. Finance must be arranged before your procedure date.
Key differences at a glance
| Traditional facelift | Deep plane facelift | |
| How the lift works | Skin lifted, deeper muscles and tissues repositioned | SMAS, facial muscles and connective tissues lifted as one unit |
| Skin | Excess skin removed | Skin redraped without tension |
| Incisions | Around the hairline and in front of the ears | Around the ears and hairline |
| Longevity | Typically around 10 years | 10-15 years or longer |
| Surgery time | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Return to work | 1-2 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Anaesthesia | Local or general | Local or general |
| Full recovery | 3-4 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Signature Clinic price | From £5,750 (full facelift), £9,450 (face and neck) | From £12,500 (face and neck) |
Prices shown were correct at the time of publishing. Please refer to our facelift and deep plane facelift procedure pages for the most up-to-date pricing.
Recovery: what to expect after a deep plane facelift
Recovery varies from person to person, but it generally follows this pattern.
Weeks 1-2: Expect tightness and mild swelling. Discomfort is managed with prescribed medication. Most patients return to light activities after around 2 weeks.
Weeks 2-3: Most patients feel ready to return to work within 2-3 weeks.
Weeks 4-6: Most patients are back to their full routine within 4-6 weeks.
Your quote includes all pre-operative and post-operative appointments, along with a full aftercare plan.
Will a deep plane facelift change how I look?
This is one of the most common concerns, and it is an important one. The aim of a deep plane facelift is not to make you look like someone else. Every facelift at Signature Clinic is tailored to your facial anatomy and ageing pattern, with the goal of a balanced result that enhances, rather than changes, your natural features.
In other words, you should look refreshed, not different.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients combine a deep plane facelift with a neck lift, blepharoplasty or facial fat transfer for fuller facial rejuvenation. Whether combining makes sense for you is always decided with your surgeon at your free consultation.
How to choose the right surgeon for a deep plane facelift
A deep plane facelift works on the deeper structures of the face, so choosing the right surgeon matters. At Signature Clinic, procedures are carried out by GMC-registered surgeons in clinics regulated by the CQC, HIS and HIW.
During your free consultation, your surgeon will:
- Assess your facial structure and ageing pattern
- Discuss your goals and what you would like to change
- Recommend the approach that suits your face
- Talk you through local or general anaesthesia
- Provide a personalised, all-inclusive quote
Frequently asked questions
Is a deep plane facelift painful?
How long do deep plane facelift results last?
Will I have visible scars?
Does the price include the neck?
Can I spread the cost?
*Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure.
