One hundred consecutive deep plane face-lifts.

Abstract

A subplaytysmal face-lift technique in a deeper anatomical plane of the face was described in the 1970s. The deep plane rhytidectomy is based on sound anatomical principles of tissue mobilization, advancement, and repair. Wide undermining is accomplished in a subplaytysmal plane and continued, extending over the zygomatic muscle to the melolabial fold. This large compound cheek flap of skin, muscle, and fat is then advanced and tightened to dramatically influence the jowl and melolabial fold. A prospective study was undertaken to evaluate the results of 100 deep plane face-lifts using this technique. Postoperative observations and evaluations were made at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months. A questionnaire response and photographic analysis were obtained after 6 months. The rate of hematomas was low, with none occurring beneath the thick cheek flap. There were no persistent problems, facial irregularities, paralysis, or paresis. Ninety-seven percent of the patients were pleased with the aesthetic results. In conjunction with wide cervical undermining and an anterior platysmal plication, the deep plane face-lift affords a predictable improvement for the aging face and neck.