What is a deep plane facelift?
Lift the deeper layer, not the skin.
The deep plane facelift repositions the underlying muscle layer (SMAS) and skin as one unit, restoring the face to where it sat years earlier. Because tension is carried by deeper tissue rather than stretched skin, the result looks like a rested version of you — not a tight, windswept mask.
Dr. Lam performs facelift and necklift together when the neck needs it, and pairs the lift with eyelid surgery, fat grafting, or a brow lift for full-face balance.
Who it's for
When the face starts to sit differently.
The signs
- A heavy jawline and developing jowls
- Loose neck skin and a less defined neck
- A face that looks tired even when you aren't
The technique
- Deep layer repositioned and secured — skin redrapes naturally
- Results typically outlast skin-only lifts — often a decade or more
- Recognized as a facelift innovator
Combined surgery
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Facial fat grafting for volume
- Brow lift for full-face balance
The process, step by step.
What to expect from consultation to the settled result.
- Consultation. Face and neck analysis, and a discussion of what bothers you and what you want to change.
- Deep plane lift. The deep layer is repositioned and secured — the skin redrapes naturally.
- Recovery. Swelling and bruising settle over 2–3 weeks; the lifted result reads immediately.
- Longevity. Deep-plane results typically last a decade or more.
Real results
Documented before & afters.
Tap any photo to view it larger.
In the clinic
See the consultation.
FAQ
Common questions.
What makes a deep plane facelift different?
It lifts the deeper facial layer as one unit instead of pulling the skin tight. The result is more natural and typically lasts longer.
Will I look "done"?
No. The goal is a rested version of you. Done well, people notice you look better — not that you had work done.
Can I combine it with other procedures?
Yes — eyelid surgery, fat grafting, and brow lift are commonly combined for full-face balance.
How long does recovery take?
You can be presentable in about 2 weeks; most swelling and bruising settle by 3 weeks, with the result maturing over months.
§ — Begin
Schedule your consultation.
A face and neck analysis, honest candidacy, and a plan built around what you want to change — combined surgery included.