By Dr Scott J Turner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon | Sydney & Brisbane
Contemporary patients increasingly seek outcomes that address visible signs of ageing without dramatically altering their appearance. The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift responds to this preference by emphasising tissue conservation and strategic repositioning rather than aggressive manipulation. This refined approach builds upon established deep plane methodology while introducing specific modifications designed to maintain the face’s inherent anatomical characteristics.
This article examines how the Preservation Facelift may address concerns of the midface, lower face, and neck whilst aiming to avoid the overly tight, stretched, or artificial appearance sometimes associated with older surgical methods.
Table of contents
What is the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift?
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift represents an evolution within the spectrum of deep plane facelift techniques. Both approaches share a fundamental principle—repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face, specifically the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS)—yet differ in their handling of superficial tissues and anatomical structures during the surgical process.
What distinguishes this refined method is its emphasis on maintaining specific anatomical features that contribute to natural facial appearance, particularly the malar fat compartments and their connections to surrounding tissues.
Reduced Superficial Dissection
A defining characteristic of the Preservation Facelift involves limiting the extent of skin separation from underlying tissues. This conservative approach to superficial dissection aims to maintain the skin’s natural blood supply, which may support healthier tissue throughout the healing process. By reducing disruption to these vascular connections, the technique is designed to decrease the occurrence of swelling and bruising following surgery.
Vertical Tissue Elevation
Facial ageing predominantly occurs in a downward direction as supporting structures gradually descend under the influence of gravity. The Preservation approach addresses this by emphasising vertical rather than horizontal tissue repositioning. This directional alignment with natural ageing patterns aims to restore facial contours in a manner that avoids the overly tightened appearance sometimes associated with techniques that rely on lateral tension.
Strategic Ligament Management
The retaining ligaments of the face serve as anchoring points connecting the SMAS to the underlying bone and fascia. In the Preservation technique, specific ligaments are carefully released to permit comprehensive repositioning of deeper tissues whilst maintaining structural integrity. This targeted approach may allow for improved tissue mobility without excessive disruption to surrounding anatomy.
Anatomical Volume Maintenance
The most distinguishing aspect of this approach involves its treatment of facial fat compartments. The malar fat pad and its connections to both the SMAS below and skin above are deliberately preserved rather than disrupted. This conservation aims to maintain volumetric harmony across the face, potentially avoiding the hollowed appearance that can occur when these natural volume compartments are inadvertently compromised during more extensive dissection.
How Does This Technique Differ From Standard Deep Plane Surgery?
Both the Preservation Deep Plane Facelift and the standard deep plane facelift address the fundamental causes of facial ageing by repositioning deep tissue layers. However, several technical distinctions set these approaches apart in terms of surgical execution and recovery characteristics.
Superficial Tissue Handling
Standard Deep Plane Technique: This method typically involves more extensive separation of skin from underlying structures to access the deep SMAS layer. The wider dissection field can occasionally create increased tension on superficial tissues.
Preservation Approach: Skin elevation is minimised, with the intention of directing lifting forces to deeper structural layers while reducing strain on the skin itself. This modification aims to preserve the natural attachment between skin and underlying compartments.
SMAS Access and Entry Point
Standard Deep Plane Technique: Entry into the deep plane typically occurs at the junction between fixed and mobile SMAS regions, generally following a line from the lateral eye towards the mandibular angle. This established approach provides reliable access for comprehensive tissue repositioning.
Preservation Approach: This method utilises a modified SMAS entry point positioned higher and closer to the ear (approximately 1.5 centimetres variation). Combined with specific ligament release, this modification creates the composite deep plane flap while potentially offering enhanced protection for the malar fat pad and its surrounding structures.
Recovery Characteristics
Standard Deep Plane Technique: Recovery varies between individuals, with some patients experiencing more pronounced swelling and bruising during the initial weeks following surgery.
Preservation Approach: The reduced skin elevation and composite tissue handling inherent to this technique may contribute to a modified recovery profile. Some patients may experience less pronounced swelling and return to routine activities sooner, though individual healing varies considerably.
For a comprehensive understanding of the various facelift techniques available, Dr Turner discusses these differences during consultation to help patients understand which approach best addresses their specific concerns.
Suitability for This Procedure
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift is designed for individuals who meet particular criteria and present with specific patterns of facial change. Dr Turner conducts thorough assessments to determine whether this approach represents the most appropriate option for each patient’s circumstances.
Age and Ageing Pattern Considerations
This technique may prove particularly suitable for patients in their forties to early fifties who are experiencing initial to moderate changes in facial contours. Those noticing early jowl formation, softening of the jawline definition, or descent of midface tissues may find this approach addresses their concerns. At the same time, the degree of change remains amenable to this conservation-focused method.
For patients with more advanced structural descent, the standard deep plane facelift or Face+ Signature Facelift may provide more appropriate correction. Dr Turner discusses these distinctions during the consultation process.
General Health Requirements
Suitable candidates should be in overall good physical health without medical conditions that could impair wound healing or increase surgical risk. A comprehensive medical assessment forms part of the pre-operative evaluation to ensure patient safety.
Psychological Readiness
Realistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes are essential. As required under Australian regulations effective from July 2023, all patients considering cosmetic surgery must complete a psychological evaluation. This assessment ensures patients are emotionally prepared for the procedure and recovery process, and represents an important safeguard rather than an obstacle.
Lifestyle Factors
Weight Stability: Significant weight fluctuations following surgery can affect the longevity and quality. Patients are advised to maintain a stable weight before proceeding.
Smoking Status: Smoking and vaping significantly compromise healing and increase complication risk. Candidates must cease smoking for a minimum of six weeks before and after surgery. This requirement is non-negotiable given its direct impact on surgical outcomes and safety.
Potential Benefits of the Preservation Approach
The Preservation Deep Plane Facelift offers a refined methodology within the spectrum of advanced facelift techniques. By emphasising tissue conservation and strategic repositioning, this approach aims to address the concerns that bring patients to consider facial surgery while maintaining the characteristics that define individual appearance.
Potential advantages may include:
- Reduced swelling and bruising compared to techniques involving more extensive superficial dissection
- Modified recovery profile that may allow earlier return to routine activities for some patients
- Emphasis on maintaining natural facial volume distribution and fat compartment integrity
- Vertical repositioning approach that aligns with the directional pattern of facial ageing
- Potential for enduring improvement through addressing deeper structural elements rather than relying solely on superficial tightening
As with all surgical procedures, individual outcomes vary based on factors including anatomy, skin quality, healing capacity, and adherence to post-operative care. Results cannot be guaranteed, and Dr Turner discusses realistic expectations thoroughly during the consultation process.
For patients interested in understanding complementary procedures that may enhance overall outcomes, information is available regarding neck lift surgery, blepharoplasty, and facial fat grafting.
Arrange a Consultation
If you are considering facial surgery, Dr Scott J Turner offers comprehensive assessments at his clinics in Sydney and Brisbane. As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with experience in facial aesthetic surgery, Dr Turner can evaluate your individual concerns and discuss the most appropriate surgical approach. Learn more about what to expect during your facelift consultation.
For patients travelling from regional areas or interstate, information is available for out-of-town patients.
To arrange your consultation, please contact us.
