What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift works beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), the foundation layer that supports the cheeks, jawline, and lower face. By carefully releasing and lifting this layer as a unit, Dr. Rodriguez restores youthful contours to the cheeks, softens deep folds around the mouth, and refines the jawline without placing tension on the skin.

She leverages her advanced training and keen surgical judgment to ensure results look natural and seamless, without leaving evidence of having “work done.” This approach often results in smooth, balanced outcomes that typically last longer than “skin-only” or traditional facelift methods.

Is a Deep Plane Facelift Right for You?

You may be a good deep plane facelift candidate if you have visible evidence of:

  • Sagging in the cheeks or midface
  • Jowling or loss of jawline definition
  • Deeper folds beside the mouth
  • Overall facial laxity and good general health

During your consultation, Dr. Rodriguez will review your anatomy, skin quality, and goals to determine the best approach for you: a deep plane facelift, a traditional facelift, a mini facelift, or another option.

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Flexible Financing For Every Budget

Paying for your procedure shouldn't stand in the way of feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. We offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit® and PatientFi®, to help make your treatment more manageable and accessible.

Our team will guide you through your options and support you during every step of your transformation.

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How Is a Deep Plane Facelift Performed?

Through discreet incisions hidden around the ears and hairline, Dr. Rodriguez carefully releases key retaining ligaments and lifts the deeper tissues together. This elevates the cheeks, refines the jawline, and softens folds without pulling the skin tight. She pairs the procedure with a neck lift for seamless rejuvenation.

Dr. Rodriguez often recommends combining a deep plane facelift with blepharoplasty or fat grafting to create balanced, harmonious results.

Dr. Rodriguez

Why Choose Dr. Rodriguez?

Dr. Abigail Rodriguez blends advanced surgical expertise with refined artistry to create results that look natural, balanced, and enduring. Known for her compassion, transparency, and commitment to patient education and safety, she provides individualized care supported by a state-of-the-art facility, enhanced recovery protocols, and comprehensive follow-up—all designed to ensure you feel cared for, confident, and understood throughout your transformation.

Widely regarded as a top board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez's excellence has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons and by Texas Super Doctors multiple times. She is trusted for her meticulous precision and genuine dedication to helping patients look and feel their most authentic and confident.

What Is Your Accelerated Recovery Timeline Like?

Our deep plane facelift patients benefit from Dr. Rodriguez’s meticulous surgical techniques and enhanced recovery protocols, which are designed to help you heal more comfortably and return to your routine more quickly.

While every recovery varies, most patients experience these healing milestones:

  • An overnight stay in the recovery suite
  • Removal of sutures 5 to 10 days after surgery, and surgical drains several days after surgery
  • About 3 weeks of social downtime, with swelling continuing to improve over time
  • Return to work about 2 to 3 weeks after surgery
  • Resume regular exercise at about 6 weeks

Swelling and bruising typically improve gradually, with full results emerging over several months. Dr. Rodriguez and her team provide detailed recovery guidance and support throughout the healing process.

A Reputation Built on Results

Had a little surgery on my ear to stitch up a tear. Dr Rodriguez and her staff made me feel so relaxed...
Janet James
Awesome experience !! Just like I read all those reviews dr Abigail makes you feel so comfortable and...
Romina Lopez
I had an amazing experience during my consultation with Dr. Abigail Rodriguez and her patient care coordinator,...
Britney Alexander
Tuve la bendición de ponerme en manos de la Dra. Abigail Rodríguez para mi abdominoplastia y liposucción,...
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What’s the Difference?

Deep Plane Facelift vs. SMAS Facelift

While both procedures work beneath the skin to create natural-looking rejuvenation, they require different surgical techniques. The primary difference lies in the extent to which the tissues are released and repositioned. During a deep plane facelift, the skin and SMAS are elevated together as a single unit, with release of deeper retaining ligaments to permit more comprehensive tissue repositioning.

The table below explains how the 2 techniques compare:

FeatureSMAS FaceliftDeep Plane Facelift
Primary GoalTighten and support the SMAS layerReposition deeper facial tissues for more comprehensive rejuvenation
How It WorksThe SMAS layer is tightened, folded, or trimmed, then securedThe skin and SMAS are lifted together after deeper ligaments are gently released
Best ForModerate aging and early jowlingModerate to advanced aging with sagging cheeks and deeper folds
LongevityLong-lastingOften longer lasting because deeper structures are repositioned

Deep Plane Facelift FAQS

Does a deep plane facelift look the most natural?

Yes. While all facelifts performed by Dr. Rodriguez are designed to look natural, a deep plane facelift typically yields softer, more balanced results that age gracefully. By more fully releasing and repositioning the deeper facial support layers, this technique restores facial contours without placing tension on the skin.

Does a deep plane facelift leave visible scars?

While incisions are required, Dr. Rodriguez places them discreetly so they are well hidden along the natural creases of the ears and hairline. With proper care, most patients find their scars fade significantly and are barely noticeable.

How long do deep plane facelift results last?

Deep plane facelift results typically last many years. While cosmetic surgery doesn’t halt the natural aging process, repositioning the deeper facial tissues allows results to age gradually and more naturally over time. Maintaining good skin care habits, practicing sun protection, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results in the long term.

Dr. Rodriguez | Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery

Elevate Your Results With a Deep Plane Facelift

Achieve comprehensive rejuvenation—and retain your natural look—by exploring deep plane facelift surgery with Dr. Rodriguez. She’ll thoughtfully assess your concerns and recommend a personalized approach to helping you look younger and more refreshed.

Request a consultation by completing the online form or calling us today at (713) 352-3199.

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