A Deep Plane Facelift involves adjusting the SMAS – a deep layer of tissue beneath the skin – promoting a lift towards the top of the ear. The technique aims to prevent excessive tension on the skin, while preserving blood supply.
The goal of Dr. Zacharia is to help patients achieve a rejuvenated yet natural look, respecting the unique characteristics of each individual’s face. The intention is for patients to appear as a refreshed version of themselves, steering clear from the stereotypical ‘operated’ or windswept facelift look.
It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.
If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.
The process for considering a deep plane facelift starts with a comprehensive consultation with our experienced surgeon. In this meeting, your surgeon will assess your goals, medical history, and facial structure. A detailed examination of your skin quality, facial volume, and the signs of facial aging you’ve experienced will be conducted. This consultation offers an opportunity for you to voice any concerns or ask any questions about the procedure.
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.
When consent can be givenA patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).
Cooling-off PeriodThere must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.
If a surgical plan is mutually agreed upon, you will receive specific preoperative instructions. These instructions might include dietary recommendations, advice on smoking and alcohol consumption, specific directions regarding medications or supplements, and facial hygiene procedures.
A deep plane facelift procedure typically requires several hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. This procedure involves making incisions in less noticeable locations around the hairline and ears. The surgeon then works beneath the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System), releasing ligamentous attachments and adjusting the facial musculature. This technique aims for comprehensive adjustments, impacting sagging and attempting to restore a tighter and smoother contour to the face.
After the surgery, you’ll be monitored closely in a recovery room for a short period. Most patients can go home the same day, though occasionally an overnight hospital stay may be advised. Bandages may be applied to your face to minimize swelling and support the healing tissues.
Post-procedure swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal, and will start to subside after a few days. The majority of patients feel ready to resume daily activities within approximately two weeks, although individual recovery times may vary.
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and to ensure your recovery is proceeding as expected. The adjustments made during your deep plane facelift can take several months to fully settle as your face continues to heal and adapt to its new contours.
While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.
Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.
Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.
In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.
For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery
Your personalised quote will be prepared following an in-depth evaluation by our expert surgeon. This includes a thorough assessment of your individual needs, detailed explanation of the procedure, and a tailored approach to best achieve the desired outcomes. The quote considers various elements including surgical supplies, hospital requirements, and the specifics of the surgery itself.
Potential rebates might be available if the procedure is deemed medically necessary by relevant health authorities. Conditions for this include providing evidence supporting the medical necessity of the surgery and a referral from a healthcare professional. Your private health insurance may also provide coverage, so it’s essential to discuss this with your provider.
Are you sure that you are ready for a Facelift? There are many important factors that could influence whether you are in a position to handle a Facelift surgery, and how your current lifestyle can impact the quality of the results that you can achieve. We’ve provided a simple assessment to help better focus your mentality around how prepared you may be for getting a Facelift. This is not a replacement for a proper consultation with a qualified surgeon like Dr Zacharia, which will be the determining factor for whether or not to proceed, but this assessment can help focus your thoughts and prepare you mentally for what is in store and it will be looked through by Dr Michael Zacharia and the team to provide feedback and thoughts on your responses.
To find out more information about our procedures, or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons give us a call or complete the form.