Deep Plane Facelift in Denver for Elevated, Natural-Looking Rejuvenation

When it comes to facial aging, there is no surgical procedure more sought after than the facelift. This surgical intervention is an effective way to address everything from sagging skin and jowls to fine lines and wrinkles, restoring youthfulness to the face.

While the traditionalor ‘full,’ facelift is the industry standard, new developments in technology have led to the creation of alternative iterations of this procedure. A deep plane facelift can achieve all the benefits of a full facelift and then some. A deep plane facelift involves the release of ligaments and the repositioning of tissues beneath the SMAS layer and the platysma muscle. This creates a more youthful aesthetic without pulling the skin too tightly.

Deep Plane Facelift Table of Contents

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is designed to reverse signs of aging in the face without distorting the patient’s natural beauty. The advanced techniques involved in this approach indicate that the results may last even longer than those associated with a full facelift.

‘Deep plane’ is in reference to the layer of muscle and fascia located between the SMAS-platysma complex and the facial muscles. Rather than pulling the skin tight to make it look more youthful, a deep plane facelift repositions and releases the deeper layers of muscle and fat in a tension-free manner.

Dr. Stephen Weber, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Denver, is highly experienced in performing deep plane facelifts. His expertise in this advanced technique ensures patients receive natural-looking, long-lasting results.

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How Is a Deep Plane Facelift Performed?

Similar to other facelift procedures, such as a SMAS facelift, a deep plane facelift involves making incisions hidden around the ears and within the hairline. This allows the muscle and skin to be moved as a single unit, giving Dr. Weber the ability to address aging in the entire face at once rather than in isolated sections.

The first step typically involves releasing and elevating the platysma muscle beneath the chin. This is often referred to as a deep neck lift. Once the platysma muscles are released, they are repaired with temporary sutures.

Next, the procedure focuses on releasing the zygomatic ligaments in the cheeks, elevating the midface and reducing nasolabial folds. The masseteric and mandibular ligaments are also released to reduce jowls and improve definition in the jawline.

Once the layers beneath the SMAS muscles are repositioned, the deep plane facelift lifts and tightens the face without impacting the deeper layers of the skin. This approach simultaneously gives patients more profound results while also reducing the likelihood of healing complications.

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What Are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?

  • A holistic approach to improving the facial structure
  • Tightens and strengthens the underlying facial muscles
  • Avoids pulling the skin too tightly
  • An effective treatment for patients of any age
  • Can take as many as 10 to 15 years off the face
  • Gives patients a boost in self-confidence

Bothered By Your Neck?

Learn Why Your Surgeon Might Also Recommend A Facelift For Best Results

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is considered to be ideal for younger patients who are looking to take preventive measures against dramatic signs of aging before they develop. That said, it is also useful for older patients who are currently dealing with more advanced signs of aging, such as sagging skin and loss of volume in the face. During the private consultation, Dr. Weber carries out a thorough and in-depth analysis to determine which techniques can best address the patient’s unique concerns. 

As with any surgical procedure, patients should:

  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications, including over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen
  • Be non-smokers
  • Have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure

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What Is the Difference Between a Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift?

The main difference between a deep plane facelift and a traditional facelift lies in the depth of tissue manipulation and the method of achieving facial rejuvenation:

Traditional Facelift: Primarily addresses aging by tightening the skin and repositioning the underlying tissues, often leading to a more superficial correction. While effective, it can sometimes result in a pulled or overly tight appearance if not done carefully.

Deep Plane Facelift: Targets deeper layers beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) and platysma muscles. By releasing and repositioning the ligaments and muscles, this technique provides a more natural lift without pulling the skin too tightly, resulting in longer-lasting and more natural-looking outcomes.

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What Is the Recovery Process Like?

Following the surgery, light cotton dressings are applied to the treated area and kept on for the first 24 hours. Patients are prescribed pain medications to help control any discomfort or pain they may feel for the first few days following the procedure. Numbness, bruising and tightness in the face are normal and to be expected, but they are temporary effects that typically only last a few weeks. It is unusual for Dr. Weber to place drains after a facelift surgery. He performs about 150 facelifts each year and places a drain in about two of those procedures in a typical year. Patients can expect to get back to normal activities after 10 to 14 days. All strenuous activity must be avoided for at least 3 to 4 weeks.

Patient Testimonials

Dr Weber is so awesome and friendly, and his skills with a needle are impeccable! I didn't feel a thing, and his rates are great! I did a lot of research before choosing Dr Webe...

BOTOX Brow lift

Dr Weber is so awesome and friendly, and his skills with a needle are impeccable! I didn't feel a thing, and his rates are great! I did a lot of research before choosing Dr Weber. Colorado's finest, in my opinion! I was turning 41, so I decided to gift myself with my first cosmetic procedure. I had a BOTOX Brow lift and also a consultation on a future cheek implant procedure.

Touchthisskin

Dr. Weber and his team were awesome! Camille took me through the procedure step-by-step during initial consultation and worked diligently with the insurance company. Dr. Weber's...

57 Yrs. Visual Field Compromised By Droopy Eyelids Due To Genetics

Dr. Weber and his team were awesome! Camille took me through the procedure step-by-step during initial consultation and worked diligently with the insurance company. Dr. Weber's pre-surgical work-up and exam were very thorough. Day of was problem-free. Being well briefed, my home was set up for optimum healing and recovery. Starting with Cori, everyone cares about your comfort. A month and two routine follow-ups later, their level of care remains constant. I couldn't be happier that I found this team.

Enciniasj

I had an overfill of Voluma injected, and my cheeks looked like clown cheeks. I hated them, but I was terrified to try Hyaluronidase. I read terrible things about it on the inte...

Needed An Overfill Of Juvederm By Other Injectionist Fixed

I had an overfill of Voluma injected, and my cheeks looked like clown cheeks. I hated them, but I was terrified to try Hyaluronidase. I read terrible things about it on the internet. I made an appointment with Dr Weber. He was very knowledgeable and put my fears at ease. His assistant Camille was just as helpful. I really like her as well. I was extremely pleased with the results.”

Berkley5

Dr Weber is extremely good at explaining the procedure in layman's terms and gives careful instructions for caring for your nose after the procedure! He makes himself available ...

Rhinoplasty - Septoplasty, Turbinated, Crooked Nose From Break!

Dr Weber is extremely good at explaining the procedure in layman's terms and gives careful instructions for caring for your nose after the procedure! He makes himself available at any time to answer any questions and has been helpful in the recovery process. I feel I've healed 10x quicker!

I am so pleased to have Dr Weber do my surgery! My husband and I had breathing problems as a result of injuries to our noses and waited until we both had enough time off to get it done! It was well worth the wait! We breathe better than ever, and even though it has only been a week of recovery, I can honestly say I'd recommend Dr Weber to anyone looking for a beautiful nose! I'm so happy, and I not only look better, but my self-confidence has also gone up!

I was so scared to do the procedure for so long because I didn't want to look different. I was scared it would be a botched job, especially since I'm Asian, and my relatives who have done theirs look so bad! He definitely applied his artistic skill to create an ethnically appropriate bridge for me! In other words, my nose job doesn't look like a stick got stuck up my nose! I look the same as I did before prior to the injury to my nose, and I am very, very pleased with the result! Thank you so much, Dr. Weber! You are amazing and extremely talented! Insurance paid for my procedure!

Elleella

I found Dr. Weber after looking through the reviews here at RealSelf, and after meeting him and his staff, I knew that I did not need to look any further. From the time I walked...

Dr. Weber Knows Noses!

I found Dr. Weber after looking through the reviews here at RealSelf, and after meeting him and his staff, I knew that I did not need to look any further. From the time I walked into his office, I knew that I had made the right choice. Every member of his staff took a personal interest in me. Camille, who is Dr. Weber's right hand, was my "go-to gal" before, during, and after my procedure. Dr. Weber and Camille were always available to me and that made me feel very comfortable. I love the fact that Dr. Weber does just faces, and I must say that he is an artist in his profession.

Dr. Weber took the time to find out what I was wanting to achieve. I was able to provide pictures and discuss what I liked and what I did not like, which is just as important. Dr. Weber's demeanor is very gentle, and I knew throughout the process that I was in great hands! I come away from this not only with a great doctor but also with some great new friends. I can not believe how easy this was, my only regret is that I should have done this years ago! I would highly recommend Dr. Weber and his staff!

Loveburgs

I found Dr. Weber to have everything I was looking for when it came to plastic surgeons. He was professional, caring, and honest, and from others who had surgery performed by hi...

When You Expect Excellent Results, Go To The Best

I found Dr. Weber to have everything I was looking for when it came to plastic surgeons. He was professional, caring, and honest, and from others who had surgery performed by him, he is extremely talented. Both he and his staff are 5-star. Last Sept (2013), I had a face/neck lift done by Dr. Weber. After consultations with plastic surgeons in 4 states, including Montana, I had made up my mind that Dr. Weber was definitely the 'one'.

I traveled from Montana, which is a 2-day trip one-way, and I am so thankful that I did. A superior facelift is what I ended up with, and how I knew it was superior is that I had just turned 66, but no one could tell. The facelift was so natural... Everyone wanted to know how I managed to stay so young-looking. I'm not the type just to say 'thank you' and move on...I want to share my story with everyone because when a person finally finds a great surgeon, others deserve to know. I will see Dr. Weber next month to get some BOTOX, Juvéderm, and perhaps a little Voluma. Oh sure, I can have everything done in Montana, but why, when I know Dr. Weber will do the best job? So far, it's unanimous .......He's worth the trip.

StaceyMontana

Dr. Weber and his staff are exactly what I want out of medical professionals. Friendly, courteous, responsive, and caring. Dr. Weber takes the time to get to know you and what y...

Corrected Life-Long Breathing Issues

Dr. Weber and his staff are exactly what I want out of medical professionals. Friendly, courteous, responsive, and caring. Dr. Weber takes the time to get to know you and what you are looking to obtain through surgery. I had trouble breathing through my right nostril my entire life, and finally decided to have it corrected. As it turns out, my left nostril needed some work too. Dr. Weber listened to my concerns and made thoughtful, well-explained recommendations. The surgery went well, and I'm breathing better than I ever thought I could. Food tastes a little better too :).

T.g.hod.83

Dr. Weber did a great job. Dr. Weber has a great "eye" for the face, and he took his time with small injections, making sure I ended up with a balanced and natural look. I am a ...

Voluma - Instant, Natural Youth!

Dr. Weber did a great job. Dr. Weber has a great "eye" for the face, and he took his time with small injections, making sure I ended up with a balanced and natural look. I am a 45-year-old woman who has always had a long/drawn face. As the years have crept on, I have lost serious volume in my face and cheeks, exacerbating the drawn look. Basically, I had no cheek definition prior to Voluma.

Voluma has made an amazing difference in the look of my face by filling out, raising, and rounding my cheekbones, making both my profile and frontal view much more appealing. I had no swelling, and the improvement was instantaneous! I saw Dr. Stephen Weber for the injections. After properly numbing the area, Dr. Weber did many small (painless) injections of the Voluma in various areas, to be sure he was getting the exact look he was going for. Dr. Weber has a very good eye for aesthetics, and he really took his time with the injections. I can't imagine trusting just anyone with my face and fillers, but Dr. Weber made me look far better than I could even imagine. I'm hoping the results last quite a while as I'm so pleased!

Runnergirl303

Dr. Weber was excellent, and outside of having a master touch for otoplasty, was supportive and responsive throughout the entire process. Having now known him several months, I ...

A Life-Changing Experience

Dr. Weber was excellent, and outside of having a master touch for otoplasty, was supportive and responsive throughout the entire process. Having now known him several months, I consider Dr. Weber not only my surgeon but also a family friend. Having had otoplasty at the age of 13 to pin back ears that hadn't achieved the desired correction, I was reluctant to have the procedure redone some 10+ years later. However, my results with Dr. Weber were truly revolutionary, and the process couldn't have been easier. I was able to schedule my surgery relatively quickly, which was excellent considering I don't live in the Lone Tree area. From there, the procedure was quick, my recovery relatively painless, and the follow-up and support from Dr. Weber truly top-notch.

ColoradoSprings88

Dr. Stephen Weber did a great job! I had a Lipoma just below my collarbone. It had been there for almost 20 years. When I first had it looked at 20 years ago, they told me it wa...

What A Great Experience!

Dr. Stephen Weber did a great job! I had a Lipoma just below my collarbone. It had been there for almost 20 years. When I first had it looked at 20 years ago, they told me it was nothing to worry about. Well, there was one thing to worry about. The lipoma keeps growing slowly every year. It got so large it started bothering me. That's when I went out to meet with 3 surgeons to get pricing and to see who I was the most comfortable with. Dr. Weber is a great surgeon and has great bedside manners. I would do it again if needed. Thanks, Dr. Weber! You and the surgery center are amazing!

Jesp

Dr. Weber performed Juvéderm and Voluma injections for me. I've been bothered for too long by flat cheeks and bad smile lines. I had Juvéderm before, which did hel...

Voluma And Juvederm - Love My Cheeks

Dr. Weber performed Juvéderm and Voluma injections for me. I've been bothered for too long by flat cheeks and bad smile lines. I had Juvéderm before, which did help my smile lines, but never fixed my sagging cheeks. Dr. Weber recommended adding Voluma to lift my cheeks and Juvéderm to fill my smile lines. Since Voluma is new, I was reassured by the fact that Dr. Weber is a trainer who teaches other physicians how to use Voluma.

The injections were not painful. I did have a small bruise on my right cheek that I could cover up with makeup in a couple days. The good news ... I love my new cheeks! They look natural and have taken off some of my age, and my smile lines are much better also! Overall, I have had a great experience with Dr. Weber and his office staff. They were very helpful and didn't push me into any treatments that I didn't want, and the results look great!”

JK12

They were very personable and nice to talk with. It was great. I have very sensitive ears and was leery of getting this procedure done, but I was very impressed. I usually get i...

Facial Ear Lobe Surgery

They were very personable and nice to talk with. It was great. I have very sensitive ears and was leery of getting this procedure done, but I was very impressed. I usually get infections in my ears, but I never got an infection. I also was impressed by my healing, and it's very hard to even see my scar. Also, they re-pierced it for me. They were very good, and I would recommend them to anyone ;).They were very personable and nice to talk with. It was great. I have very sensitive ears and was leery of getting this procedure done, but I was very impressed. I usually get infections in my ears, but I never got an infection. I also was impressed by my healing, and it's very hard to even see my scar. Also, they re-pierced it for me. They were very good, and I would recommend them to anyone ;).

Missyn30

Dr. Weber was extremely professional! He is a family man. He makes you feel extremely comfortable! His staff is great too! Everyone, including the doctor, was so nice and welcom...

Single Mom

Dr. Weber was extremely professional! He is a family man. He makes you feel extremely comfortable! His staff is great too! Everyone, including the doctor, was so nice and welcoming! I was very nervous to get BOTOX. I never had it before and was afraid that I would look weird after. Dr. Weber made me look amazing! I didn't have that 'frozen' look. I looked fresh and younger. He's awesome!!!!!! I will definitely recommend him to anyone that wants to feel better about themselves!

Kstylist

I am very impressed with Dr. Weber and his staff. Every person I have met within his office is very nice, and they act as if you are the only patient they are concerned about at...

24-Year-Old Finally Decided To Do A Rhinoplasty

I am very impressed with Dr. Weber and his staff. Every person I have met within his office is very nice, and they act as if you are the only patient they are concerned about at that moment. I used Realself a lot to help inform myself about rhinoplasty, particularly the recovery process and results. Ever since I was about 12 years old, I have disliked my nose. I have the typical larger German nose, and I have a "dorsal bump" that I refer to as my ski slope. One of my best friends is getting married this summer, and since I am a bridesmaid, I really wanted to get rid of the bump before the wedding. I wanted to love looking at the pictures and not grimace every time I saw myself in one. I've chatted with friends and family about getting the surgery, and most said that they didn't see anything wrong with my nose but said I should do what I want to. I graduated last December and have a good job, so with the financials in place, I began to start researching surgeons and reading rhinoplasty blogs.

I decided on a surgeon in Denver, Dr. Weber. After two consultations, we set a date for surgery. I went through mixed emotions of excitement and anxiety, but I was committed to the procedure the entire time. I am still healing, so I cannot say yet that it was worth it, but so far, it has been a great decision for me. I get the splint off in two days and will be able to see the results more clearly.

Here is my journey so far: Day of Surgery: I was very, very nervous. I have never had surgery before, so I was kind of freaking out about electively putting myself through it. I was the most anxious about the anesthesia, which is very common. I did a lot of research about it before committing to the operation. After signing a pile of paperwork at the surgery center, I was taken back into pre-operative care. There was a desk of nurses to my right, a row of beds and curtains in front of me, and a small room to my left. I was taken into the small room where I got undressed and put on the very fashionable surgery robe and crawled onto the bed. A very sweet nurse came in who set up my IV and gave me a nice heated blanket. I was a little freaked out from all of the medical equipment and monitors that were hooked up to me. The anesthesiologist came in next and calmed my nerves. He explained how the anesthesia works and the process they use during surgery. He was also very nice and reassuring. My surgeon came in next and we talked about the procedure and my expectations again. I think that all of the staff could tell I was so scared that I was shaking because they were all so incredibly kind and calming. Next, two more nurses came into my room and gave me something like valium. It calmed my nerves a lot. So much to the point that as they were carting me to the OR, I asked if we could race the beds through the hallways. I don't remember much after this. I didn't see anything after they started pushing me, and the last thing I remember hearing is a nurse telling me to think of a family vacation, and then I was waking up in recovery.

Jaereis

I find it very difficult to fully express in words my enthusiasm and gratitude in regards to my whole surgical process with Dr. Weber and Weber Facial Plastic Surgery. When I lo...

Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty, Chin and Cheek Implants

I find it very difficult to fully express in words my enthusiasm and gratitude in regards to my whole surgical process with Dr. Weber and Weber Facial Plastic Surgery. When I look at myself in the mirror, I now see a better, natural, more rested, rejuvenated version of myself. I have received excellent results that have truly taken years, have opened up my eyes, and I no longer look angry all the time due to my former heavy lids. Recovery has been virtually pain-free, little bruising, and a breeze. My incisions are hardly noticeable at two weeks out and will further improve. I love my new eyes. I also had chin and cheek implants performed at the same time and am equally happy with these results as well. I find the implant recovery process a little bit more difficult due to the swelling, but this will resolve itself with just a little bit of time.

Ncbailey2379

Simplified Surgery Experience With Dr. Weber

Why In-Office Surgery?

Dr. Weber and his team are committed to excellence not just in terms of your aesthetic results but also in regard to the entire treatment process, which is simplified and streamlined through in-office surgery.

This approach helps to save patients’ time and money, improves communication and transparency and provides patients with alternatives to general anesthesia, minimizing surgical risks.

Dr. Weber is able to avoid general anesthesia for about 90% of his facial procedures, instead opting for oral sedation with tumescent anesthesia, a technique he calls “beauty sleep,” which numbs the patient via painless injections.

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Together, we decided on a deep plane face lift and the results are better than I could have ever imagined. Dr. Weber is truly an artist and he cares deeply about his work, his patients and getting the best result possible. I hardly remember the self-consciousness and embarrassment I had because of the way my neck looked. It's been life-changing and I'd not hesitate to use the good doctor again for any future plastic surgery needs.

K.K. - Deep Plane Facelift

What Is the Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift?

The cost of a deep plane facelift starts at $26,000. Being a complex surgery, this cost can increase due to various factors. This procedure is typically performed at Weber Facial Plastic Surgery without the need for an IV or general anesthesia. The final cost of services will be discussed during your private consultation with Dr. Weber. If necessary, our office can assist you in applying for financing.

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Why Choose Dr. Weber?

A renowned name in the world of aesthetic facial surgery, Dr. Weber has been proudly providing the greater Denver area with the best in cosmetic procedures for decades. His lengthy educational and training background includes Boston University School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University and the University of Michigan.

Beyond his credentials and certifications, Dr. Weber is championed for his consistent dedication to excellence and client satisfaction. He curates a fine-tuned treatment plan based on the patient’s unique concerns and ensures that they are comfortable throughout the treatment process.

Reach out today to set up an appointment.

Learn More About Dr. Weber

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Deep Plane Facelift FAQ

How long do the results last?

Changes with the deep plane approach are long-lasting. Patients usually don’t require any additional treatment until 10 to 15 years after their deep plane facelift. Patients maintain the youthful effects of the treatment even as they get older.

Is a deep plane facelift more painful than a full facelift?

It is thought to be the opposite. A deep plane facelift involves less trauma to the skin, making it a considerably more comfortable procedure.

Is the recovery process longer with a deep plane facelift?

While the deep plane facelift is a safer procedure, the deeper layers of tissue may take longer to heal. Nonetheless, the upper layers of skin heal and look normal much sooner than those deeper levels, meaning that patients can keep their social lives active while they’re still healing.

Why is a deep plane facelift more expensive than other types of facelifts?

A deep plane facelift involves more advanced surgical techniques and a high level of precision. As such, the costs are usually higher. It’s more cost-effective in the long run to choose this procedure, as it can achieve results that last a very long time.

Can a deep plane facelift be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Some procedures that are often performed in tandem with a deep plane lift include a brow lift, blepharoplasty and neck rejuvenation. Patients will have the opportunity to explore their options and receive other relevant information when they come in for the private consultation.

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