Facelifts are a popular cosmetic surgery that is designed to reduce the signs of aging on the face and neck. One type of facelift is the Deep Plane Facelift, which has become increasingly popular due to its long-lasting results and natural-looking outcome.
In this article, we\’ll explore what a Deep Plane Facelift is, the types available, and why Turkey is a popular destination for this procedure.
Anatomy and Effects of Aging
The aging process of the face is influenced by various anatomical structures and their interactions. Factors such as gravity, facial expressions, chewing movements, weight fluctuations, and tissue aging contribute to the sagging and loosening of the soft tissues and skin over time. These factors are the primary reasons for facial sagging and signs of aging. Another factor contributing to aging is volume loss. As we age, muscle and bone mass decrease. Additionally, many patients experience a loss of fat tissue in the face, leading to a loss of youthful fullness and the development of hollows. In some rare cases, the fat tissue in the face may undergo hypertrophy (excessive growth), resulting in a bulkier and swollen appearance in the face and neck. Depending on the characteristics of the patients, fat injection or fat excision may be performed in facelift surgeries.
The main fascial layers that constitute the facial structure include:
- Superficial Cervical Fascia: The superficial connective tissue layer of the neck.
- Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS): A fascial layer located in the midface and connected to various facial muscles, crucial for facial anatomy.
- Deep Cervical Fascia: Encompasses deeper structures of the face, including important anatomical features such as the masseter muscle and facial nerve.
The key retaining ligaments of the face, such as the zygomatic, maxillary, and masseteric ligaments, play a critical role in maintaining facial anatomical integrity. Understanding the facial anatomy and the effects of aging is essential in planning aesthetic interventions.
Areas and Structures Addressed by Deep Plane Facelift Technique
The deep plane facelift technique provides significant improvements in the face. This technique elevates the malar fat pad, corrects nasolabial folds and jowl deformities, and creates a strong jawline. It also reduces the prominence of nasolabial folds. When combined with a neck lift, it improves deformities in the submental area. This technique restores sagging tissues to their youthful positions.
Corrected Areas:
- Malar Fat Pad (Cheek Area)
- Nasolabial Folds
- Jowls (Bulldog Area)
- Jawline
- Submental Region (Chin Area)
- Neck
- Temporal Area
Considerations for Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Candidates for deep plane facelift surgery should be in good health. This surgery is not suitable for individuals with severe chronic illnesses. During the pre-operative evaluation, certain factors need to be carefully assessed:
- Patients using medications and supplements that increase risks, such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs.
- Patients with genetic bleeding or clotting disorders.
- Patients with uncontrolled hypertension require extra caution both before and during surgery.
- Active smokers face a significantly increased risk of skin necrosis.
- Patients with psychological instability.
These factors should be evaluated before the surgery to determine the patient\’s suitability.
Equipment Required for Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Various sizes of nylon and synthetic absorbable sutures are used for stitching and skin closure. The SMAS suspension and skin closure process require precise suturing techniques:
- Sutures for SMAS Suspension: 3-0 or 4-0 sutures
- Sutures for Skin Closure: 4-0 and 5-0 nylon, 4-0 synthetic absorbable sutures
Post-surgery, antiseptics and dressing materials that minimize infection risk are used. These tools enhance the success of the procedure and accelerate patient recovery.
Pre-Operative Preparations for Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Deep plane facelift surgery requires meticulous preparation based on the patient\’s condition. Initially, the general health status is evaluated. Surgeries performed under general anesthesia are ideal for patient comfort. Patients with a history of depression should be informed about potential emotional fluctuations post-surgery. A single dose of intravenous antibiotics and steroid injection is recommended to reduce the risk of infection and help manage post-operative swelling.
A neurological examination, particularly assessing the functionality of the trigeminal and facial nerves, is essential. The condition of these nerves controls facial mobility and sensory areas. Pre-operative photography documents the patient\’s face from various angles:
- Static and dynamic images
- Front, side, and three-quarter views
- Ear position and facial asymmetries
These images help the surgeon better plan the operation. Surgical markings ensure accurate placement of incision lines. These markings include incisions along the temporal hairline and either in front of or behind the tragus. Depending on the planned dissection extent, incisions may also be required behind the ear and along the occipital hairline. Identifying important anatomical points minimizes the risk of nerve injury during the operation.
Detailed Steps of the Deep Plane Facelift Technique
The surgical process primarily focuses on the SMAS layer in the lower face. The SMAS is a critical fascial layer that provides structural support to the face. After skin dissection, the surgeon enters the deep plane at the junction of the immobile and mobile SMAS. This line corresponds to the level from the lateral canthus to the angle of the mandible.
Surgical Steps:
- SMAS Dissection: The SMAS is dissected and lifted as a composite skin/SMAS flap from the parotid-masseter fascia, using natural facial spaces.
- Release Ligaments: Zygomatic, maxillary, and masseteric ligaments are released.
- Suspension: The cheek, malar region, and jowls are lifted and secured with sutures.
- Middle Face: Dissection continues along the zygomatic muscles to the nasolabial fold, completing the midface release.
- Lower Face: Addresses sagging of cheek fat and jowls.
- SMAS Fixation: The SMAS is sutured along the cuff to the parotid and deep temporal fascia, pulling the face upward and outward.
- Excess Skin Removal: Excess skin is meticulously excised, and a combination of deep and superficial sutures is used for closure.
Post-surgery, tension-free skin closure provides an aesthetic appearance and speeds up the healing process. A drain is placed at the occipital hairline, and antibiotic ointment is applied with dressings to minimize infection risk and support recovery.
Potential Complications of Deep Plane Facelift Technique
The deep plane facelift technique may involve certain complications, although the well-vascularized flap created by this technique protects against many facelift-related issues. Key considerations include:
- Hematoma: Although rare, it requires immediate intervention.
- Infection Risk: Low, but still present.
- Facial Nerve Injury: Rare, but can occur.
- Great Auricular Nerve: Rarely affected, leading to numbness in the earlobe.
- Pixie-Ear Deformity: Resulting from excessive tension on the lobule.
- Alopecia: Preventable with correct hairline techniques.
Each complication requires careful post-operative monitoring and intervention by a skilled surgeon to minimize negative outcomes.
How Much Does a Deep Plane Facelift Cost in Izmir, Turkey?
Country | Average Cost of Deep Plane Facelift (EUR) |
---|---|
Germany | €16,000 – €30,000 |
United Kingdom | €14,000 – €24,000 |
France | €14,000 – €28,000 |
Italy | €12,000 – €24,000 |
Spain | €10,000 – €20,000 |
Netherlands | €16,000 – €28,000 |
Switzerland | €20,000 – €36,000 |
Belgium | €12,000 – €24,000 |
Turkey | €5,500 – €8,000 |
The cost of a Deep Plane Facelift in Izmir, Turkey, varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the provider. On average , patients can expect to pay around 50-70% less than they would in the United States or Western Europe. The cost includes the surgeon\’s fee, facility fee, anesthesia fee, and any necessary follow-up appointments.
It\’s important to note that while the cost may be lower in Turkey, it\’s crucial to choose a reputable and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. Patients should do their research and ensure that the provider they choose has the necessary qualifications and experience in performing Deep Plane Facelifts.
Some providers in Turkey may also offer packages that include accommodation, transportation, and other amenities, which can further reduce the overall cost of the procedure. However, patients should be cautious of providers who offer significantly lower prices than the average, as this may indicate subpar quality or lack of experience.
Overall, the cost of a Deep Plane Facelift in Izmir, Turkey, is relatively affordable compared to many other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking this procedure.