Deep Plane Rhytidectomy – also known as a Deep Plane Facelift.
What is a Deep Plane Rhytidectomy Consultation?
A deep plane rhytidectomy consultation is an appointment with a specialist facial surgeon or specialist plastic surgeon to assess concerns involving age related changes in the midface, jawline, and lower face. People may seek this consultation if they notice facial laxity, deep folds, jowling, or structural descent that affects comfort or confidence. Unlike traditional facelift techniques that focus on skin tightening, this consultation approach targets the underlying musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and ligamentous attachments.
Only a qualified surgeon can determine whether a deep plane approach is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history and expectations. The consultation focuses on assessment and safety rather than promoting any particular technique.
What areas does it address?
During the consultation, the surgeon may review factors such as:
• Midface volume descent
• Prominence of nasolabial folds
• Soft tissue laxity in the lower face or jawline
• Changes along the neck or submandibular area
• Skin quality, elasticity and facial proportions
• Whether non surgical or conservative options should be considered
The purpose is to understand your individual presentation and whether a deep plane rhytidectomy may be clinically appropriate.
Who may be referred for a Deep Plane Rhytidectomy Consultation?
A GP may refer someone for assessment if they:
• Have noticeable midfacial soft tissue descent
• Experience age related changes that affect facial contour
• Have concerns related to deep folds or jowling
• Seek a structural approach to facial rejuvenation
A referral does not mean surgery will be recommended. Suitability is confirmed only after full clinical examination.
How is suitability determined?
Suitability is assessed by reviewing:
• General health and medical history
• Facial soft tissue structure
• Skin quality and healing factors
• Facial nerve considerations
• Proportions of the midface and jawline
• Personal goals and expectations
Not all individuals will be appropriate candidates. Your surgeon will explain the reasons you may or may not be suitable based on safety and clinical findings.al reconstructive surgeon is essential to determine whether a deep plane approach is appropriate.
Understanding what the procedure involves
If the surgeon believes a deep plane rhytidectomy may be suitable, they will outline the general approach in a clinical context. This may include broad information about incision positioning, movement of deeper tissues and the typical recovery period.
These discussions are provided only to support informed consent and do not promote the procedure. The surgeon will also explain circumstances where the deep plane approach is not advised. of facial anatomy.
Downtime and aftercare
If surgery is recommended, general recovery expectations may be discussed, including:
• Swelling or bruising in the early weeks
• Temporary restrictions on physical activity
• Instructions for incision care and head elevation
• Follow up appointments to monitor progress
• Signs that require review
Recovery varies between individuals. Personalised instructions are provided during consultation.
Surgical or non-surgical?
Surgical
A deep plane rhytidectomy is a complex surgical procedure and must be performed in a licensed, accredited medical facility.
Who performs this procedure?
In Australia, a deep plane rhytidectomy must be performed by a registered medical practitioner with formal training in advanced facial surgery. This may include:
• Specialist Plastic Surgeons
• ENT Surgeons who have completed recognised subspecialty training in facial plastic surgery
The procedure must take place in an accredited hospital or licensed surgical facility with appropriate anaesthetic and postoperative support.
Patients are encouraged to:
• Confirm the practitioner’s qualifications and scope of practice
• Ask about their experience with deep plane facelift techniques
• Ensure the facility meets Australian accreditation standards
• Discuss postoperative care and follow up arrangements
Consultation required?
Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:
• A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.
• You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.
• A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.
These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.
Risks and considerations
All facial surgery carries risks. Your surgeon will discuss risks that may include:
• Infection or bleeding
• Haematoma
• Temporary or permanent nerve changes
• Scarring
• Asymmetry
• Delayed healing
• The possibility of revision surgery
A full risk discussion is part of informed consent.
Frequently asked questions
Is a deep plane rhytidectomy covered by Medicare?
Medicare generally does not provide rebates when the procedure is performed for cosmetic reasons. Limited support may apply only in reconstructive situations. Eligibility can be assessed by your surgeon after examination.
How long do results last?
Longevity varies between individuals. Natural ageing will continue and may influence the midface and jawline over time. Your surgeon can explain the factors that affect long term outcomes.
Will there be visible scars?
Incisions are typically placed in natural creases around the ears and sometimes within the hairline. Your surgeon will explain likely incision placement and how to care for the area as it heals.
Is the procedure painful?
Some discomfort is expected during early recovery. Your surgeon will explain what is typically experienced and how pain is usually managed.
When can I return to normal activities?
Many people resume light activity after the early weeks of recovery. More strenuous physical activity is usually delayed for a longer period. Your surgeon will provide a personalised timeline.
