What Is the Deep Plane Facelift Cost?
Written by: Dr. Dahlia Rice. Posted in: Blog
If you’ve been searching for Deep Plane Facelift Cost?, you’re probably trying to figure out what the real number looks like, and why it varies so much. The truth is, deep plane facelift cost isn’t one fixed price. It depends on your anatomy, your goals, and the surgeon performing the operation.
Unlike a traditional facelift, a Chicago Deep Plane Facelift works at a deeper level of the face. That difference matters. It affects not only results, but also surgical time, recovery, and overall pricing. Dr. Rice carefully evaluates each patient’s facial structure and goals to determine whether this advanced approach is the right choice for achieving natural, long-lasting rejuvenation.
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ToggleWhat Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is a type of facelift surgery designed to lift more than just the surface. Instead of tightening only the skin, the surgeon works beneath it, repositioning the deeper facial tissues for a more stable and natural lift.
This includes the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a layer of connective tissue and facial muscles that supports facial structure. By releasing and lifting this layer, the surgeon restores the face to a more youthful position rather than simply pulling it tighter.
Patients usually consider this option when they notice:
- Persistent sagging skin
- Visible neck sagging
- Hollowing or volume loss in the mid face
- Excess or loose neck skin
- More advanced signs of facial aging
Compared to a typical facelift or mini facelift, the deep plane technique allows the face to be lifted as a unit. That reduces tension on the surface and can produce more durable, natural looking results with smoother youthful contours.
In some cases, an extended deep plane facelift may be recommended for patients with more pronounced laxity in both the lower face and neck.
What Is the Average Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift?
The cost of a deep plane facelift typically ranges from $15,000 to $40,000 in the U.S.
Your total facelift cost often includes:
- The surgeon’s fee
- The facility fee
- General anesthesia (sometimes local anesthesia for smaller cases)
- Use of the surgical facility
- Follow-up visits
- Postoperative care and prescription medications
In larger cities, or when working with a highly sought-after double board certified and board certified plastic surgeon, you may see higher fees. That’s not unusual. Surgeons who focus on advanced facial plastic surgery and perform the deep plane facelift procedure regularly tend to price accordingly.
Because this is a technically demanding and time-intensive surgical procedure, it typically costs more than many other facelift procedures.
Mini deep plane facelift cost
For patients with earlier signs of aging, a smaller variation of deep plane facelift surgery may be discussed. This approach is sometimes compared to mini lifts or a mini facelift, though it still uses elements of the deep plane method.
The mini deep plane facelift cost often ranges from $10,000 to $18,000. But this depends on:
- The amount of loose skin
- The tone of the facial muscles
- The degree of volume loss
- Whether other facial procedures are performed at the same time
Not everyone qualifies for a limited approach. For patients with noticeable neck sagging or more advanced laxity, a full deep plane facelift procedure may provide more predictable and longer-lasting improvement.
What Factors Affect Deep Plane Facelift Cost?
There isn’t just one reason prices vary. Several key factors play a role in determining your total plane facelift cost.
1. Surgeon’s Experience and Training
An experienced surgeon who specializes in the deep plane technique will often charge more. You’re not just paying for operating time, you’re paying for years of advanced training and refined technique.
This type of facial plastic surgery involves working around delicate facial muscles and lifting the deeper facial tissues safely. Precision is essential.
2. Geographic Location
Costs vary based on where the procedure is performed. Urban practices tend to have higher overhead, which affects both the facility fee and overall facelift cost.
3. Complexity of Your Case
Every face ages differently. Some patients have mild laxity. Others show clear signs of advanced aging, including significant neck skin looseness and mid-face descent.
In some cases, prior facelift surgery or scar tissue adds complexity. When the surgeon must address multiple root causes of facial aging, the procedure may take longer, which can influence pricing.
4. Additional Procedures
Many patients combine their deep plane facelift surgery with other facial procedures, such as:
- A brow lift
- Eyelid surgery
- Fat grafting for volume loss
- Neck liposuction
Adding additional procedures increases the final cost, but for many patients it leads to more balanced and significant results.
5. Type of Anesthesia
Most full facelift operations require general anesthesia, which adds to the overall expense. Limited procedures may sometimes be performed with local anesthesia, which can slightly reduce cost.
Is a Deep Plane Facelift More Expensive Than a Traditional Facelift?
In most cases, yes.
A traditional facelift, often referred to as a SMAS facelift or smas facelift, tightens the superficial musculoaponeurotic system without fully releasing deeper attachments.
A deep plane facelift goes further. The surgeon carefully releases and repositions the deeper structures, lifting the face as one unit. This makes the procedure more time-consuming and more technically demanding.
Because of that added complexity, the plane facelift cost is typically higher than a typical facelift or other other facelift procedures.
That said, pricing shifts when aging is mild. Patients with minimal laxity may achieve good improvement with a mini facelift instead. For those with more pronounced sagging skin and neck sagging, the deeper approach often provides longer-lasting facial rejuvenation and more stable natural results.
Does Insurance Cover Deep Plane Facelift Cost?
Insurance typically does not cover cosmetic procedures, including facelifts.
A deep plane facelift procedure is classified as cosmetic plastic surgery, meaning it is performed to improve appearance rather than treat a medical condition.
Insurance generally covers reconstructive surgery, such as procedures performed after trauma or cancer. Cosmetic facelift surgery does not fall into that category.
In rare cases, certain related procedures may be covered if tied to functional problems. For example, eyelid surgery for vision obstruction. However, coverage for full facelift procedures is uncommon.
Financing Options for Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Because the deep plane facelift cost can be significant, many practices offer structured payment options.
These may include:
- Third-party medical financing
- Monthly installment plans
- Healthcare credit programs
- Personal financing options
During your deep plane facelift consultation, you should receive a detailed breakdown of your treatment plan, including what is included in the final cost.
Recovery planning is also important. Most patients experience swelling and bruising during the first week. By week two or three, many feel comfortable returning to social activities. Final results continue to refine over several months as swelling resolves and tissues settle into smoother, youthful contours.
Why Choosing the Right Surgeon Matters More Than Cost

It’s tempting to compare numbers when reviewing deep plane facelift cost. But the lowest price is not always the safest or most effective choice.
This procedure requires working around delicate facial muscles, protecting nerves that control facial expressions, and repositioning deep tissues to restore the mid face and jawline.
An experienced surgeon who is board certified in facial plastic surgery understands these deeper layers and uses refined, advanced techniques. That level of skill reduces the risk of tightness, distortion, or unnatural pulling of the neck skin.
During your consultation, discuss:
- Whether you are a good candidate
- Your personal aesthetic goals
- Expected recovery time
- Realistic expectations
- Whether combining other procedures would enhance results
Choosing the right procedure and surgeon upfront helps achieve a high-quality result and may reduce the need for later surgery.
For most patients, the goal is not dramatic change. It’s to look rested and refreshed. A properly performed deep plane facelift surgery addresses the deeper causes of facial aging and restores a softer, more rejuvenated appearance without altering your identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do deep plane facelift results last?
Results from a deep plane facelift often last 10 to 15 years. Because the surgery lifts the deeper facial tissues rather than only tightening the surface, changes tend to hold longer than a traditional facelift. That said, aging continues, and factors like sun exposure and skin quality can influence longevity.
Is deep plane facelift surgery more painful than other facelift procedures?
Most patients describe discomfort as moderate and manageable. The first few days typically involve tightness and swelling rather than sharp pain. With proper care and prescription medications, recovery from deep plane facelift surgery is similar to other facelift procedures.
Am I a good candidate for a deep plane facelift?
You may be a good candidate if you have noticeable sagging skin, visible neck sagging, and moderate to advanced facial aging. Patients with more significant laxity often benefit most. A detailed deep plane facelift consultation helps determine whether this approach fits your needs and medical history.
Why is the deep plane facelift cost higher than a mini facelift?
The deep plane facelift cost reflects longer operating time and greater technical complexity. A mini facelift addresses limited areas of laxity, while the deep plane approach lifts deeper structures and corrects more advanced changes. That additional surgical work increases the surgeon’s fee and overall facelift cost.
Is a deep plane facelift more expensive than a traditional facelift?
Deep plane facelifts are generally more expensive than traditional facelifts due to their complexity and the deeper tissue involvement.
How long does a deep plane facelift take?
Deep plane facelift surgeries typically require 4 to 8 hours of operating room time.
Can I combine a brow lift with a deep plane facelift?
Yes. Many patients combine a brow lift with a deep plane facelift procedure to address aging across the entire face. Combining additional procedures increases the final cost, but it can also create more harmonious and natural looking results.
Are celebrities with deep plane facelift results publicly confirmed?
In most cases, no. Conversations about celebrities with deep plane facelift procedures are usually based on rumors, as specific surgical techniques are rarely disclosed. For a clearer understanding of how this procedure works, visit our in-depth deep plane facelift article.
Schedule Your Deep Plane Facelift Consultation
If you are considering a deep plane facelift and want clear, honest guidance about your options, the next step is a personalized consultation. At DMR Aesthetics, your visit will focus on understanding your facial anatomy, degree of sagging, and long-term aesthetic goals. Dr. Rice will review whether you are a good candidate, explain what your customized treatment plan may include, and provide a detailed breakdown of recovery and cost.
You do not have to navigate this decision alone. If you’re ready to explore how a deep plane facelift can restore a more youthful and natural appearance, schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward feeling confident in your reflection.
