Deep Plane Facelift London | Jonathan Britto Clinic

Facial ageing is a natural and inevitable part of life. As time progresses, the layers of the face sag and descend against each other. The skin (layer one) and the fat (layer two) drop down over the laxity in the muscle layer (‘SMAS’ layer three). There is also descent of the deep fat (layer four). The movement between these layers is different in different faces which is why facial ageing is bespoke. The Deep Plane facelift elevates layers one, two and three together by dividing the tethering ligaments in layer four. The quality of the result therefore depends on the judgement and technical skill of the surgeon.

Here, we explore what makes the deep plane facelift unique, how it is performed, and whether it might be the right option for you.

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

The Deep Plane Facelift moves the skin (layer one), the fat in layer two and the muscle in layer three, together as a single unit.

This is very powerful in the younger face. However, it depends on the requirement that these layers move in the same direction. There is no separation between the layers. The technique requires division of the retaining ligaments in layer four. The combined layers, three and four, are known as the ‘deep plane’.

By releasing and repositioning this layer, the procedure lifts the cheeks, reduces nasolabial folds, and restores definition to the jawline and neck. Because it works within the natural anatomical planes, the result is not only more effective but also avoids the overly tight or unnatural appearance that can sometimes result from skin-only facelifts.

How It Differs From a Traditional Facelift

The deep plane facelift, works at a deeper level. Traditional SMAS lifts separate the skin form this deeper level where the requirement is for the skin and the deeper layers to be lifted in different direction. This is particularly beneficial in ‘older’ faces with very saggy excess skin folds.

Because the Deep Plane Facelift occurs within the deeper tissues, the skin is not pulled tightly. It is therefore particularly useful in younger faces without significant skin laxity.

Many popular facelifting techniques such as ‘one-stitch-lifts’ only address the skin, tightening it over the underlying structures. While this can reduce wrinkles, it may lead to a pulled appearance if overdone. In contrast, the deep plane facelift goes beneath the surface to reposition and lift the underlying tissues, creating a smoother, more naturally youthful result.

The Surgical Process

At the Jonathan Britto Clinic, we undertake the full range of facelift techniques in all the five layers of the face and bring a youthful result in anyone or all of the ‘five zones’ of the face. This surgery is completed under Jonathan’s celebrated ‘Twilight’ technique. In this technique, Jonathan, his anaesthetist and patient work together in a safe, calm zone, of full comfort and relaxed consciousness. The surgery happens ‘with’ the patient not ‘to’ the patient. This allows for faster recovery, less bruising and swelling and no post anaesthetic downtime.

Jonathan is operating on the ‘dynamic face’ not the ‘static face’ of general anaesthetic, and the result is therefore a far more natural one.

Incisions are placed discreetly around the ears and may extend into the hairline to keep any scarring well hidden. Once access is gained, Jonathan works beneath the skin, releasing key ligaments and adjusting the SMAS layer. The tissues are gently lifted and repositioned to restore youthful volume and contour. Excess skin is then removed, and the incisions are closed with precision to promote optimal healing.

Depending on the patient’s needs, the deep plane facelift can be combined with eye lid lift, browlift, and neck lift to enhance overall harmony and rejuvenation.

Recovery and Results

Enhanced by Jonathan’s celebrated ‘Twilight’ technique, the recover from deep plane face lift is swift and comfortable. You can be having a cup of tea within five minutes of leaving the operating theatre.

You are home on the same day with no drains.

You can shower at 24 hours post-surgery and be across the table in a restaurant at 10-14 days. Soft and subtle stability arrives between 6 – 12 weeks.

The results of a deep plane facelift are typically long-lasting. Because the deeper tissues are repositioned, the face ages more gracefully after the procedure. Patients often report looking like a refreshed version of themselves, rather than someone who has undergone obvious cosmetic work.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

This procedure is particularly well suited to individuals in their mid-40s to mid-60s who have noticeable sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and jawline, but not with excessively saggy skin. Ideal candidates are in good general health, have maintained some skin elasticity, and are looking for natural results that endure.

As with any surgical procedure, a detailed consultation is essential. At Jonathan Britto Clinic, we conduct a full assessment of your facial anatomy, skin condition, medical history, and personal goals to determine whether this advanced technique is the right choice for you.

Why It Is Considered the Gold Standard

The deep plane facelift is widely regarded as the most effective and natural approach to facial lifting. By addressing the root causes of facial ageing in the deeper structures, it creates a smoother and more balanced result that holds its shape over time.

It avoids the tension and tightness of traditional facelifts and restores a refreshed, youthful expression that feels entirely your own. Because of the comprehensive lift it offers and the long-lasting benefits it delivers, it is considered the gold standard in facial rejuvenation. For patients who have excessive skin laxity, the principles of deep plane face lifting can be combined with traditional SMAS based face lifts.

Considering a Deep Plane Facelift?

If you are seeking a long-term solution to facial ageing that restores your natural contours and confidence, a deep plane facelift may be the ideal choice.

At Jonathan Britto Clinic, we offer expert care grounded in deep anatomical knowledge and surgical artistry. Every treatment plan is tailored to your individual features and goals, ensuring results that are both beautiful and authentic.