What is the Difference Between a Preservation Facelift and a Deep Plane Facelift?

The difference between a deep plane facelift and a preservation facelift primarily lies in the superficial layers of the face that are targeted during the procedures, affecting the outcome and recovery process for each. Both techniques use the deep plane approach to lift and reposition the deep aging tissue of the midface, lower face, and neck. However, they differ in how much the skin is detached to lift the deep tissue. Dr. Kevin Sadati, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience in performing facelifts, will further explain the difference between these two approaches.

Preservation Facelift Technique

It is the next generation of deep plane facelifts and is rapidly gaining popularity among individuals seeking natural, long-lasting results with a shorter recovery time.

The Preservation Facelift's minimally invasive approach to deep plane facelifting distinguishes it from other facelift techniques. Less skin is lifted during the procedure, while more of the deeper tissue is lifted as a composite flap. This will lead to a better recovery, fewer chances of scaring, and less seroma and hematoma formation. Moreover, the procedure can be performed under twilight sedation, eliminating the need for general anesthesia and its associated risks, further facilitating a quicker recovery.

Deep Plane Facelift Technique

This approach involves going under the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), a tissue layer deep beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat. Like the Preservation Facelift, the deep plane facelift addresses the facial muscles and the structures beneath them. Repositioning these deeper layers provides a comprehensive lift to the midface area and can address sagging around the nose, mouth, and jawline. However, this technique requires more skin undermining removal of deep tissues such as glands and muscles, which may result in longer recovery time.

Both techniques use a deep plane approach to provide long-lasting and natural-looking results. However, the Preservation Facelift has a smoother and shorter recovery since less skin is elevated during the surgery, and more anatomical tissue is preserved while the same degree of deep plane lifting is performed.

Before Extended Deep Plane Facelift

After Extended Deep Plane Facelift

Before Preservation Deep Plane Facelift

After Preservation Deep Plane Facelift