Facial aging shows up slowly at first, and then all at once. The cheeks feel heavier, the jawline softens, and the neck begins to loosen. As these changes appear, many people begin exploring facelift procedures but aren’t sure which approach fits their goals. At Dr. Andres Bustillo’s Miami practice, two methods often come up in consultation: the deep plane facelift and the traditional SMAS facelift. Understanding how they differ, what each technique can accomplish, and when one may be more appropriate can help you make a clearer, more confident decision.
Dr. Bustillo is known for his mastery of the deep plane facelift technique and his ability to tailor facelift surgery to each patient’s unique facial structures, goals, and stage of facial aging. The distinctions between these two methods matter because they influence the facial tissues involved, the longevity of results, the recovery time, and how natural the final results appear.
Key Points to Help You Compare
- A deep plane facelift repositions deeper facial tissues, ligaments, and fat pads as a single unit for comprehensive rejuvenation.
- Older skin-only facelifts tighten just the surface layers, while the more modern SMAS facelift tightens the superficial muscular layer but does not reposition the deeper structures lifted in a deep plane facelift.
- Deep plane facelift results often provide more natural midface and cheek elevation with longer-lasting improvement.
- Recovery time varies between techniques, with deep plane facelift recovery often being comparable despite the deeper work performed.
- Choosing the right surgeon—preferably a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon with extensive deep plane experience—is essential for safe surgery and natural results.
Understanding the Deep Plane Facelift Procedure
A deep plane facelift focuses on the structures beneath the SMAS layer, where true facial aging occurs. Instead of lifting the skin separately, Dr. Bustillo releases select ligaments and repositions the deeper layers of the face—including the muscles, fat, and connective tissues—as a single, unified layer. Working in this plane allows for precise elevation of the cheeks, jawline, and face and neck without creating tension on the skin.
Because the skin is never pulled tightly on its own, this deep plane technique avoids the “overdone” look that many patients worry about. It restores natural fullness in the midface, softens deeper nasolabial folds, and improves jowls and neck laxity in a way that supports a youthful appearance without distortion.
Why Dr. Bustillo Favors the Deep Plane Technique
Dr. Bustillo’s practice emphasizes procedures that deliver natural enhancement with minimal visible signs of surgery. The deep plane facelift aligns with this philosophy by addressing the areas where aging actually occurs. As the facial tissues weaken and descend, deeper ligaments stretch and fat pads shift downward. By releasing these ligaments and repositioning the deeper layers, the face can be restored in a more anatomical and stable way.
Patients often appreciate that this method creates comprehensive rejuvenation in the midface—something more superficial techniques cannot fully achieve. Because the deeper layers hold the lift, rather than the skin, the longevity of results tends to be more durable.
What Is a Traditional SMAS Facelift?
In earlier decades, facelift surgery often relied on skin-only techniques, where the skin was tightened without reshaping the deeper tissues. These traditional methods are rarely performed today because they can look less natural and do not address the deeper structures responsible for facial aging.
Most modern surgeons now perform the SMAS facelift, which is considered the standard facelift approach. In this method, the SMAS layer—a fibrous network beneath the skin—is tightened or repositioned to improve jowls, early laxity, and lower-face contour. After the SMAS is adjusted, excess skin is removed and redraped for a smoother appearance.
While the SMAS facelift is more advanced than older skin-only techniques, it still works at a more superficial level compared to the deep plane facelift. It can improve mild to moderate aging changes but does not fully reposition the deeper fat pads or elevate the midface the way the deep plane technique can.
When a Traditional Face Lift May Be Appropriate
Although Dr. Bustillo most often performs the deep plane facelift, the SMAS facelift still benefits certain patients. Individuals with earlier signs of aging, minimal midface descent, or concerns primarily focused on the lower face may achieve a good outcome with this technique. It can also be a suitable option for someone seeking a shorter or more limited procedure.
If midface flattening, downward-shifted cheek fat, or deeper wrinkles are the main concerns, the deep plane facelift surgery generally provides more thorough, longer-lasting improvement.
Key Differences Between Deep Plane and Traditional Facelift Techniques
Understanding the key differences between these two facelift procedures can help you determine which option may better align with your goals.
Traditional SMAS Facelift
Deep Plane Facelift
Facelift Depth of Tissue Repositioning
Primarily repositions the SMAS layer and tightens superficial tissues.
Deep Plane Facelift Depth of Tissue
Works beneath the SMAS, addressing deeper ligaments and repositioning the facial tissues and midface fat pads as a single unit.
Facelift Midface and Cheek Elevation
Can improve facial laxity but may create mild skin tension, which can appear less natural in some cases.
Deep Plane Facelift Midface and Cheek Elevation
Repositions deeper layers without pulling the skin tightly, resulting in soft, fluid draping and avoiding the “pulled” or windswept appearance.
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Facelift Naturalness of the Final Result
Can improve facial laxity but may create mild skin tension, which can appear less natural in some cases.
Deep Plane Facelift Naturalness of the Final Result
Repositions deeper layers without pulling the skin tightly, resulting in soft, fluid draping and avoiding the “pulled” or windswept appearance.
Facelift Longevity of Results
Provides good but more moderate longevity, as the lift relies on repositioning superficial tissues.
Deep Plane Facelift Longevity of Results
Offers longer-lasting results because deeper facial structures are repositioned and supported, maintaining improved contour for many years.
Facelift Areas of Impact
Primarily enhances the lower face and jawline, improving early jowling and mild skin laxity.
Deep Plane Facelift Areas of Impact
Addresses the face and neck more comprehensively, improving the midface, cheeks, jowls, deeper wrinkles, and under-chin laxity for full-face rejuvenation.
Facial Rejuvenation and Comprehensive Rejuvenation Benefits
The deep plane facelift is considered one of the most powerful facial rejuvenation procedures available. By addressing the underlying causes of facial aging—rather than just the surface—the results often appear more youthful, balanced, and structural.
The Benefits of the Deep Plane Technique
Patients may experience:
- Better definition along the jawline
- Natural elevation of the cheeks
- Softening of deep nasolabial folds
- Improved contour of the face and neck
- Long-lasting, stable improvements
- A refreshed, youthful appearance without tightness
Because the deeper tissues are lifted, the skin can rest naturally over the repositioned structures. This creates subtle contour changes that feel organic to the patient’s own facial anatomy.
Deep Plane Facelift Results
Patients often notice improvement in facial contour soon after surgery, with continued refinement over several months. Deep plane facelift results offer a balance of structure, softening, and natural definition. The midface appears lifted, the jawline sharper, and the neck more refined. As swelling resolves, the full rejuvenation becomes clearer.
Many individuals appreciate that their friends and colleagues often cannot identify that they had surgery—only that they look rested, healthy, and refreshed.
Case Study: Natural Facial Rejuvenation With Deep Plane Facelift Technique
Patient: Name Withheld for Privacy
Procedure Type: Facial Rejuvenation Surgery
Timeline: 3 Months Post-Op
5 Stars
★★★★★
Overview
This patient underwent a comprehensive facial rejuvenation performed by Dr. Andres Bustillo, combining a Deep Plane Facelift, Deep Neck Lift, and Upper Blepharoplasty. At just three months post-operative, she is already showing refined, harmonious, and natural-looking improvements — hallmarks of Dr. Bustillo’s conservative surgical approach.
Along with structural lifting, small amounts of the patient’s own fat were strategically placed to soften hollow areas and restore youthful contours without creating an overdone look.
Treatment Details
- Deep Plane Facelift: Targets deeper facial layers to restore midface support, refine the jawline, and reduce heaviness in the lower face.
- Deep Neck Lift: Improves the neck profile by tightening underlying muscles, addressing bands, and removing excess fullness.
- Blepharoplasty: Creates a brighter, more rested upper-eye appearance by removing excess skin and refining eyelid contours.
- Fat Grafting: A small amount of the patient’s fat was added to smooth transitions and enhance natural facial balance.
Dr. Bustillo focuses on natural, elegant outcomes and takes great care to avoid a “pulled” or artificial appearance.
Outcome
- Noticeably lifted midface with restored cheek definition
- Sharper, cleaner jawline and improved neck contour
- Youthful, refreshed upper-eye area
- Enhanced facial softness from subtle fat grafting
- Results appear natural and harmonious, even at early healing stage
- Patient satisfaction is high, with gratitude expressed for both the outcome and the care received
Key Takeaways
- Natural Results First: Deep plane techniques provide movement and expression that look authentic.
- Comprehensive Approach: Combining facial procedures creates balanced, long-lasting rejuvenation.
- Patient Trust: Allowing results to be showcased reflects strong confidence in Dr. Bustillo’s expertise.
Deep Plane Facelift Recovery and Expected Healing
Deep plane facelift recovery is often comparable to traditional recovery despite the deeper work performed. Dr. Bustillo’s meticulous technique minimizes trauma to the tissues, supporting a smooth healing period.
Most patients experience:
- Bruising and swelling during the first two weeks
- Gradual improvement in facial contour over three to six weeks
- The ability to return to many normal activities within 10–14 days
- Complete refinement over several months
Every patient heals differently, and Dr. Bustillo provides individualized guidance to help ensure comfortable recovery time and predictable, safe healing.
How Facelift Surgery Compares to a Neck Lift or Eyelid Surgery
Although deep plane facelift surgery addresses the face and neck together in most cases, some patients combine their facelift with other facial plastic surgery procedures for more complete facial rejuvenation.
Neck Lift
A neck lift can refine the jawline, tighten loose neck skin, and improve contour beneath the chin. Many deep plane facelifts include elements of neck lift surgery because the neck is visually connected to the lower face.
Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery can be paired with a facelift if the upper or lower eyelids show laxity, puffiness, or wrinkles that the facelift alone cannot improve. The combination can create a balanced, refreshed appearance.
Understanding Potential Complications and Safety Considerations
Every cosmetic surgery carries risks. Although complications from deep plane facelift surgery are uncommon when performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon, it is important for patients to be aware of possibilities such as bleeding, infection, nerve sensitivity changes, or delayed healing. Thorough evaluation, careful technique, and appropriate postoperative care help minimize these risks.
Dr. Bustillo’s extensive background in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery allows him to navigate the underlying facial anatomy safely while prioritizing natural, predictable outcomes.
Choosing the Right Deep Plane Facelift Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important steps in achieving excellent results. Facelift procedures require detailed knowledge of the facial tissues, ligaments, SMAS layer, and deeper planes of the face. A board-certified facial plastic surgeon with mastery of the deep plane facelift technique is best equipped to guide you toward the approach most likely to achieve your goals.
Dr. Bustillo’s work focuses exclusively on the face, and his practice is built around natural, balanced, and subtle enhancement. His individualized planning ensures that every facelift—whether a traditional SMAS facelift or deep plane face lift—is customized for your facial structures and desired changes.
Are You a Candidate for a Deep Plane or Traditional Facelift?
You may be a candidate if you notice:
- Softening of the jawline or visible jowls
- Descent of the midface or flattening of the cheeks
- Loosening of the neck skin
- Deepening wrinkles or nasolabial folds
- Facial aging that no longer responds to non-surgical options
During your consultation, Dr. Bustillo will evaluate the face and neck, review different types of facelift procedures, discuss potential complications, and help determine which technique aligns with your anatomy and goals.
Schedule a Consultation in Miami
If you’re considering facelift surgery and want results that appear natural, refined, and long-lasting, meeting with a specialist can give you clarity and confidence. Dr. Bustillo welcomes patients from Miami and beyond who are ready to address facial aging with a safe, thoughtful approach tailored to the face and neck.
Schedule your private consultation to learn whether a deep plane facelift, traditional SMAS facelift, or combination procedure is the right fit for you.
