Is a Deep Plane Facelift Painful?

Pain during and after the procedure can be managed with medication. A feeling of facial tightness is normal in the first week after surgery, but most patients do not report any significant pain.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

A deep plane facelift requires about 5-7 appointments spread out over several weeks to months. The appointments you will attend include the initial consultation, the surgery, and several follow-up appointments, during which Dr. Ackerman will check your healing and monitor your progress.

How Long Until I See My Deep Plane Facelift Results?

Initial results should be visible almost immediately, with final results becoming more apparent as swelling subsides. Most of the swelling will have resolved within two weeks; however, your results will continue to improve over the following weeks and months. No cosmetic surgical procedure lasts forever—the aging process, skin growth, and the effects of gravity continue over time. But by maintaining a consistent weight and living a healthy lifestyle, you should enjoy the results of your deep plane facelift for 10 to 15 years.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Deep plane facelift incisions heal with minimal scarring. If there is visible scarring, it will be hidden within the structure of the ears. Because the deep plane method lifts the skin and muscle together, there will not be excessive tension placed on the incision from the muscle once it is closed. This allows for smaller and better-healing scars.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Deep Plane Facelift?

You can generally begin light walking within a couple of days after the surgery to promote blood circulation. Light cardio can be resumed after about 3-4 weeks, and more intense exercise can be reintroduced around 6 weeks after surgery.

How Soon Can I Travel After a Deep Plane Facelift?

After your deep plane facelift, you can go on short drives within 7 to 10 days. After 7 to 14 days, you can go on a plane. This waiting period allows your body to heal sufficiently and avoid unnecessary risks, such as increased bleeding, swelling, and bruising.

What Are the Risks Associated with a Deep Plane Facelift?

Any surgery involves a certain amount of risk, but under the care of an expert cosmetic surgeon, these risks are minimized. Care must be taken to avoid postoperative infection. Some of the risks you may encounter include: Swelling Bruising Bleeding Infection Asymmetry Nerve injury Muscle injury Scarring Hair loss Hematoma Tissue necrosis Seroma Anesthesia risks

How Do I Find the Best Deep Plane Facelift Plastic Surgeon in Newport Beach, CA?

There are several things you should look for in a plastic surgeon, including extensive training in facial procedures, to help you achieve the best possible results from your deep plane facelift. One of the most important things that qualifies a plastic surgeon is their certifications. Plastic surgeons who are Board-certified demonstrate their dedication to the craft by completing years of specialized surgical training, including focused facial plastic surgery training, passing comprehensive written and oral examinations, and adhering to strict ethical and safety standards. Choosing a surgeon with an artistic vision also helps support natural-looking, balanced outcomes. Those recognized by esteemed organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), and that have QUAD-A Accreditation are also important to look for, as they ensure patient safety, guarantee surgical expertise, and combat medical misinformation. You should also look at before-and-after photos to help you set realistic expectations, verify the surgeon’s skill set, and clarify your aesthetic goals. Patient reviews can also get you a firsthand look at a surgeon’s bedside manner, staff professionalism, and real-life results. Under the care of Dr. Ackerman, deep plane facelift patients in Newport Beach and Orange County can expect personal attention and exceptional results tailored to their individual goals.

Deep Plane Facelift

Newport Beach, CA

Lift Beyond the Surface

Introduction to Deep Plane Facelift in Newport Beach

As the science of plastic surgery evolves, time-proven procedures like facelift surgery (rhytidectomy) continue to improve, with refinements that make results last longer and look more natural. One such innovation is the deep plane facelift.

A deep plane facelift at Dr. Boris M. Ackerman’s practice in Newport Beach can give you the dramatic facial rejuvenation you’ve been seeking to look years younger and boost your confidence.

Dr. Ackerman is welcoming new patients in Newport Beach and the greater Orange County area. Continue reading to learn more about the technique and what it can do for you.

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What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a deep plane approach to target the deeper layers of the facial muscles and tissues, delivering more natural, longer-lasting results than traditional facelifts.1. This is how a deep plane facelift differs from a traditional facelift, as it repositions deeper facial tissue rather than primarily tightening skin to address sagging, deep folds, and drooping in the mid and lower face.

Unlike traditional or SMAS facelift methods, the deep plane facelift can address underlying facial tissues and muscles at the level of the superficial muscular aponeurotic system for more comprehensive correction and enhanced longevity. Additionally, the entire facial rejuvenation is more harmonious with a deep plane facelift, resulting in improved facial contours and harmony.

What Sets Dr. Ackerman Apart as the Premier Deep Plane Facelift Practice in Newport Beach, CA?

The deep plane facelift technique requires extensive training and surgical precision, as it involves elevating tissues in the deep plane adjacent to the facial nerves, and, because of their proximity, it demands a sophisticated level of surgical skill.

Dr. Ackerman has been performing deep plane facelift surgeries for patients in Newport Beach and the greater Orange County area for over 30 years.
He is affiliated with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), and holds QUAD-A Accreditation.
Dr. Ackerman received his undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1978 and his Doctorate in Medicine from Dartmouth Medical School in 1981. Dr. Ackerman went on to do his postgraduate training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Ohio State University.
Dr. Ackerman is Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), with specialization in facial plastic surgery and plastic and reconstructive surgery.
He lectures at national and international meetings, presenting his techniques, which are among the most advanced used by surgeons performing the deep plane facelift and reflect his artistic vision.

Deep Plane Facelift Quick Facts

Surgery Time: 3 to 5 hours, depending on the severity and complexity of the procedure
Price: Will vary depending on how Dr. Ackerman performs it. For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation.
Recovery: Two to three weeks for visible swelling and bruising to improve before most patients return to normal social and work routines
Results: Initial results are immediate, with final results showing up after about 3-6 months

Who Are the Best Candidates for a Deep Plane Facelift?

Ideal candidates for a deep plane facelift are typically patients in good health, often ages 45 to 65+, with significant skin laxity, loss of jawline definition, and other visible facial aging, such as the following:

Skin laxity (sagging)
Hanging jowls
Deep nasolabial folds
Those who have had previous facelifts but are not happy with the results may also benefit from this procedure.

Candidates should also be non-smokers in good mental and physical health and free of uncontrolled medical conditions such as hypertension or bleeding disorders.

Many candidates are in their 50s and older, while some patients in their 30s or 40s may pursue a deep plane lift as a preventive option against the effects of aging.

It is also crucial for patients to manage their expectations. Discussing outcomes and expectations is an essential part of any pre-procedure consultation.

Dr. Ackerman’s clinic is in Newport Beach, CA, but he also serves patients in the greater Orange County area. Many of his patients travel from even farther to ensure they get the natural-looking results Dr. Ackerman is renowned for.

What Are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?

The deep plane facelift is performed on women and men who desire:

Longer-lasting results (up to 15 years or more)
Fuller and lifted cheeks without the need for fillers or fat
A refreshed appearance in the face and neck that prevents the tight, overdone results common with other facelifttechniques2
More confidence in their face and neck
A smoother, youthful appearance
Increased facial balance, symmetry, and proportion
Minimal trauma to the superficial skin layer

Boris M. Ackerman, MD entering office doorway in formal suit carrying documents - Frist step in Newport Beach, CA

How to Begin Your Deep Plane Facelift Journey

Your deep plane facelift is customized to meet your aesthetic needs. A consultation with Dr. Ackerman at his Newport Beach office is essential to the success of your facial enhancement surgery. During this meeting, Dr. Ackerman will:

Evaluate your medical history and review your current medications
Assess your skin
Discuss your cosmetic facial concerns and goals
Explain your facelift options
Explain additional procedures if he recommends any
Develop a custom surgical plan
Take before photos

Consider bringing a list of questions to your consultation to ensure that Dr. Ackerman addresses all of your concerns.

7 Steps to Prepare for My Deep Plane Facelift with Dr. Ackerman

During your pre-procedure consultation, details on how to prepare for surgery will be shared. These include the following seven steps:

Get adequate rest, eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of water.
Avoid aspirin and other medicines or supplements that can increase bleeding.
Don’t use any tobacco or nicotine products, and limit your consumption of alcohol.
Pick up your prescriptions before the day of your facelift surgery.
Pre-cook a week’s worth of balanced meals and arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery.
Prep a comfortable recovery spot with necessities within arm’s reach and lay out some loose-fitting clothing that opens in the front.
Follow your fasting instructions the night before, and on the day of your procedure, make sure your face is clean and makeup-free.

5 Tips for Recovery From Deep Plane Facelift

Recovering from your deep plane facelift is essential to achieving optimal results.

Follow Dr. Ackerman’s specific instructions provided in your surgical plan
Elevate your head at all times
Take the pain medication prescribed by Dr. Ackerman
Stay hydrated and eat clean to keep your body healthy
Attend all follow-up appointments at Dr. Ackerman’s office in Newport Beach

What to Expect On the Day of Deep Plane Facelift Surgery

A good plastic surgeon knows that each patient is unique, with different requirements and expectations for facial rejuvenation. By working with Dr. Ackerman, you can be confident that your deep plane facelift is customized to your individual preferences, specific needs, and overall facial structure.

Your deep plane facelift, performed as an outpatient surgical procedure under general anesthesia, allows precise facial rejuvenation. Smaller incisions are made inside the tragus and behind the ears, with incision sites hidden near the ears to minimize visible scarring. The surgeon lifts the facial skin and deep tissue structures, including the fat pads, as a single unit while working beneath the SMAS, releasing retaining support and repositioning the facial structure for natural-looking results. Tension-free closure techniques help the incisions heal nicely and ensure long-lasting results.

The procedure can last anywhere from two to five hours, depending on how much correction is needed. You’ll be given a few hours to recover before being taken home by a trusted friend or family member. After surgery, swelling, bruising, and tenderness are expected, but these effects are often more manageable than with traditional facelifts. Local anesthesia may be an option for selected patients when appropriate.

All of our procedures are performed at our surgical facility in Newport Beach, CA.

Boris M. Ackerman, MD consulting with female patient about facial procedure in medical office - Expect in Newport Beach, CA

Combining My Deep Plane Facelift with Other Procedures

A deep plane facelift addresses many common signs of aging in the lower-to-mid-face areas but can be combined with other facial procedures for even more comprehensive results.

Adding a neck lift addresses sagging skin and excess fat in the neck and jawline. This procedure also helps create a seamless transition between the areas and a comprehensive boost in youthfulness. A brow lift can also be paired with a deep plane facelift to elevate the upper face and improve overall facial balance.

Deep Plane Facelift Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Deep Plane Facelift Care

Deep plane facelift recovery involves bruising and swelling for a week or two, but discomfort is often less than with a traditional facelift. Pain medication may be prescribed, and applying cold compresses and elevating your head can also help. You will need lots of rest during your recovery to support healing.

Most patients can expect their swelling, bruising, and discomfort to begin subsiding by week two of their recovery, with only residual swelling remaining by week four. Dr. Ackerman provides detailed postoperative instructions to help you successfully manage your recovery and ensure the best possible results.

How Much Does a Deep Plane Facelift Cost in Newport Beach, CA?

A deep plane facelift in Newport Beach, California, and the greater Orange County area can vary based on the surgeon’s expertise and experience, the complexity of the procedure, and whether other facial procedures, such as eyelid surgery, a neck lift, or fat transfer, are included.

The cost of your deep plane facelift will depend on these factors and external fees, such as anesthesia, facility, and other surgical fees. Pre- and postoperative appointments, as well as dressings and medications, will also factor into your total price. Dr. Ackerman’s office will provide an accurate cost estimate at the end of your consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Ackerman?

Dr. Boris Ackerman is a world-renowned, Board-certified plastic surgeon and facial plastic specialist with many years of experience in facial rejuvenation procedures, including the deep plane facelift. His skill in complex facial surgery, coupled with his deep understanding of facial anatomy, has made him a highly sought-after plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, with work grounded in facial plastic expertise rather than broader procedures such as body contouring.

Dr. Ackerman is recognized as an expert in deep plane facelift techniques and as the inventor of the Ackerman facelift retractor. He has spoken before national and international medical audiences to present his deep plane facelift techniques, with an approach focused on preserving each patient’s facial structure and natural facial harmony, and has also been featured on television and in numerous medical publications.

Our Newport Beach plastic surgery practice includes a state-of-the-art, on-site surgery center certified by the AAAASF (American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities).

Boris M. Ackerman, M.D., is a Board-certified, renowned plastic surgeon based in Newport Beach, affiliated with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), and has QUAD-A Accreditation.

Deep Plane Facelift FAQ’S

Initial results should be visible almost immediately, with final results becoming more apparent as swelling subsides.

Most of the swelling will have resolved within two weeks; however, your results will continue to improve over the following weeks and months.

No cosmetic surgical procedure lasts forever—the aging process, skin growth, and the effects of gravity continue over time. But by maintaining a consistent weight and living a healthy lifestyle, you should enjoy the results of your deep plane facelift for 10 to 15 years.
Any surgery involves a certain amount of risk, but under the care of an expert cosmetic surgeon, these risks are minimized. Care must be taken to avoid postoperative infection. Some of the risks you may encounter include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Asymmetry
- Nerve injury
- Muscle injury
- Scarring
- Hair loss
- Hematoma
- Tissue necrosis
- Seroma
- Anesthesia risks
There are several things you should look for in a plastic surgeon, including extensive training in facial procedures, to help you achieve the best possible results from your deep plane facelift.

One of the most important things that qualifies a plastic surgeon is their certifications. Plastic surgeons who are Board-certified demonstrate their dedication to the craft by completing years of specialized surgical training, including focused facial plastic surgery training, passing comprehensive written and oral examinations, and adhering to strict ethical and safety standards.

Choosing a surgeon with an artistic vision also helps support natural-looking, balanced outcomes.

Those recognized by esteemed organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), and that have QUAD-A Accreditation are also important to look for, as they ensure patient safety, guarantee surgical expertise, and combat medical misinformation.

You should also look at before-and-after photos to help you set realistic expectations, verify the surgeon’s skill set, and clarify your aesthetic goals. Patient reviews can also get you a firsthand look at a surgeon’s bedside manner, staff professionalism, and real-life results.

Under the care of Dr. Ackerman, deep plane facelift patients in Newport Beach and Orange County can expect personal attention and exceptional results tailored to their individual goals.

Patient Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Life changing facelift!

Dr. Ackerman did a deep plane facelift, a lip lift, and a brow lift on me. I was about to turn 60 and I figured it would be now or never. I have struggled with a thin face and started having substantial sagging and Fillers were beginning to make me look unnatural and pillowy. I am thrilled to be able to say that I couldn’t be happier.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Amazing Experience

Immediately after seeing 3 other plastic surgeons for consultation, my parents and I knew Dr. Ackerman was the surgeon for us. He has an amazing and trustworthy staff, who we felt very welcomed by. When we met with him so he could give me a consultation for my nose, he was very honest about some of the setbacks that may come with my particular surgery.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent results and experience!

I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Dr. Boris Ackerman and his team! I came to him for a facelift, eyebrow lift, and a revision rhinoplasty, and from start to finish, everything exceeded my expectations. Dr. Ackerman is not only incredibly skilled and precise, but he also has an artistic eye that made all the difference in my results.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Like refreshed versions of themselves

Dr. Ackerman is an exceptional surgeon. I had reviewed his before-and-after photos beforehand, and it was clear that his patients looked like refreshed versions of themselves—not like entirely different people. That was exactly the outcome I wanted, and it’s exactly what I received.

– Linda L
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
That decision exceeded every expectation.

“I absolutely love Dr Boris Ackerman. I cannot recommend my plastic surgeon highly enough. He performed my original facelift when I was 45, and 20 years later, I trusted him again for an updated procedure—and that decision exceeded every expectation.” Mary R

Sources

Frankeny, A. (2025, February 5). The innovative techniques of the deep plane facelift. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/the-innovative-techniques-of-the-deep-plane-facelift
Claytor, R. B., Tolan, G. C., & Fuentes, P. M. (2025). Awake rejuvenation with deep-plane facelift and extended deep-neck contouring. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, 13(12), e7305. https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000007305

Schedule Your Deep Plane Facelift Consultation

If you think you may be a candidate for a deep plane facelift, contact Dr. Ackerman in Newport Beach, California, serving patients throughout the Newport Beach area, by calling (949) 759-3284.

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