Trials, Tribulations, and Techniques for Transitioning to an Extended Deep Plane Facelift for All Patients: Insight from a Very Experienced Surgeon's Perspective

Edwin F. Williams III; Matthew J. Urban

doi:10.1055/s-0044-1779626

Facial Plastic Surgery, Table of Contents

Facial Plast Surg 2025; 41(01): 12-20
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779626

Original Article

Trials, Tribulations, and Techniques for Transitioning to an Extended Deep Plane Facelift for All Patients: Insight from a Very Experienced Surgeon's Perspective

Edwin F. Williams III

¹The Williams Center for Plastic Surgery, Latham, New York

,

Matthew J. Urban

¹The Williams Center for Plastic Surgery, Latham, New York

› Author Affiliations

Abstract

The extended deep plane facelift is a powerful technique to correct aging of the midface and neck. After many years of superficial muscular aponeurotic system lift techniques, the senior author transitioned to an extended deep plane facelift for all patients. The primary catalyst for this shift in practice was the pursuit of superior rejuvenation of the midface. Consistent uniform elevation of the deep plane with complete ligament release and management of the soft tissue flap were the most significant challenges in the early adoption period. Navigating the transition was facilitated by consultation with experienced colleagues and frequent cadaver dissections. This manuscript details the authors' current technique. Complications and recovery from this technique are similar to those reported with historical techniques and are minimized with proper preparation, precision, and perioperative management. In our experience the results from this procedure are extremely reproducible, durable, and natural, and patients are overwhelmingly extremely satisfied.

Keywords

extended deep plane - facelift - facial aging - complications - technique

Full Text

References

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