Deep Plane Facelift
Deep Plane Facelift in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles & Glendale, CA
A deep plane facelift is one of the most advanced and effective procedures available for those looking to reverse the signs of aging and restore a youthful, rejuvenated appearance.
As the years pass, our faces undergo several transformations, such as sagging skin, loss of volume, and deep wrinkles. A deep plane facelift addresses these issues at a more profound level, offering long-lasting, natural-looking results.
If you’re looking for a transformative solution to counteract the effects of aging, a deep plane facelift by Dr. Martin Stepanyan or Dr. Johnson Lee in Beverly Hills may be the answer. With their expert training and surgical skill, these board-certified surgeons offer patients a thorough approach to facial rejuvenation, ensuring the best possible results.
To learn more about deep plane facelifts in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Glendale, CA, contact us online or call (818) 551-0088 to schedule your consultation. Our team of friendly experts look forward to meeting with you soon.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a method of facelift surgery designed to address the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. Unlike traditional facelifts, which primarily tighten the skin and some underlying tissues, a deep plane facelift involves lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of the face, including the muscles and connective tissues. This technique provides more dramatic and long-lasting results, creating a natural, refreshed look without the tight, “pulled” appearance that can sometimes result from superficial facelift surgeries.
The deep plane facelift focuses on several key areas:
- Lower face: Rejuvenates the jawline and chin, reducing jowls and sagging.
- Mid-face: Lifts the cheeks and restores lost volume, providing a youthful contour.
- Neck area: Tightens loose skin and muscles around the neck, improving the overall facial profile.
By addressing deeper structures rather than just the skin, a deep plane facelift provides more comprehensive results, lifting the entire face and creating a harmonious, youthful appearance.
What Issues Does a Deep Plane Facelift Address?
A deep plane facelift is highly effective for individuals who want to correct multiple age-related facial concerns. These include:
- Skin Sagging: Over time, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck. The deep plane facelift lifts and tightens these areas, restoring a more youthful profile.
- Deep Wrinkles and Folds: The deep plane facelift smooths out prominent wrinkles and folds, including nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the mouth) and marionette lines (lines running from the corners of the mouth to the chin).
- Volume Loss: Aging can lead to a loss of volume in the cheeks, resulting in a hollow or sunken appearance. A deep plane facelift addresses this by repositioning the underlying fat and tissue to restore fullness in the face.
- Jowls and Drooping Jawline: As the skin sags, jowls can form, and the jawline may lose its definition. The deep plane facelift tightens and redefines the jawline, helping to eliminate jowls and restore a smooth, sculpted profile.
- Neck Sagging: One of the primary advantages of the deep plane facelift is its ability to address neck sagging. By tightening the muscles and skin of the neck, it enhances the overall appearance of the lower face.
What Causes Our Faces to Age?
Aging is a natural process, and our faces are among the first places where its effects are visible. Several factors contribute to facial aging, including:
- Loss of Collagen and Elastin: As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. This leads to wrinkles and sagging.
- Decreased Facial Fat: Over time, fat in the face diminishes and shifts downward, contributing to hollow cheeks, sunken eyes, and a less defined jawline.
- Gravity: Gravity pulls the skin and underlying tissues downward, exacerbating sagging and the formation of jowls.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun accelerates skin aging by breaking down collagen and causing skin damage, such as wrinkles and age spots.
The deep plane facelift counters these effects by addressing the underlying causes of facial aging, resulting in a more youthful and natural appearance.
Advanced Specialization in Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery: Why Choose Dr. Stepanyan for Ethnic Rhinoplasty in Glendale
Dr. Martin Stepanyan is a board-certified surgeon with over 16 years of academic excellence, extensive training, and over 23 years of successful private practice in Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Choosing the right surgeon is key to achieving the best results from ethnic rhinoplasty. Dr. Martin Stepanyan stands out as a top choice for individuals seeking a surgeon who understands the delicate balance of ethnic features and can deliver beautiful, natural results.
With over 28 years of experience in facial surgery, Dr. Stepanyan combines advanced surgical skills with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
His extensive training in both cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery enables him to address aesthetic and functional concerns, delivering results that enhance each patient’s natural beauty. Furthermore, Dr. Stepanyan uses advanced three-dimensional imaging technology to provide patients with a clear visual representation of their expected outcomes before the procedure, helping to manage expectations and ensure satisfaction.
As a board-certified surgeon and a Fellow of prestigious professional organizations, Dr. Stepanyan operates in a state-of-the-art, AAAHC-accredited surgery center, prioritizing patient safety and comfort at all times.
His approach is supported by decades of additional training, experience, and professional achievement, including:
- More than 2,000 nasal surgeries have been performed throughout Los Angeles County, including complex revision cases for patients who travel from out of state seeking his expertise
- Board-certified since 2003, with recertification extending through 2033
- Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (FAACS)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
His professional experience extends well beyond private practice. Dr. Stepanyan graduated first in his class with a 4.0 GPA from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and then completed a cosmetic and reconstructive surgery fellowship under T. William Evans, MD, FACS, at The Ohio State University. He has also:
- Co-authored research published in The American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery
- Served as Division Chief at Huntington Memorial Hospital (2005 to 2007) and Methodist Hospital of Southern California (2007 to 2009)
- Participated in craniofacial reconstructive missions in Ecuador, Armenia, and Russia
Patients consistently point to the consultation experience as one of the reasons they choose Dr. Stepanyan. Lianna M. called him “the only doctor who captured my attention with all the knowledge he had,” and Vicki D. contrasted him with other surgeons who “made me feel they were only out for the money and a quick job.”
Every consultation is centered on understanding your anatomy, concerns, and goals before recommending a personalized treatment plan. Supported by trilingual staff fluent in English, Armenian, and Russian, the practice provides culturally informed care for Glendale’s diverse communities while creating results that look refined rather than obviously surgical.
As patient Naeva O. shared, people “couldn’t even tell” she had work done, reflecting the natural-looking outcomes Dr. Stepanyan strives to achieve. That same personalized approach guides Dr. Stepanyan’s philosophy of enhancing rather than westernizing the nose.
Patients also benefit from an integrated surgical setting. Dr. Stepanyan performs procedures at his AAAHC-accredited Glendale surgical center, which includes three fully equipped operating rooms and an on-site 23-hour ambulatory recovery center.
This allows patients to undergo surgery and recover under the same experienced team, providing continuity of care from the operating room through the early stages of recovery.
Dr. Stepanyan’s Glendale practice welcomes patients from throughout Burbank, Pasadena, Beverly Hills, Studio City, and the greater Los Angeles area, with extensive experience treating diverse minority and immigrant communities in the region.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift in Beverly Hills?
If you’re considering a deep plane facelift, it’s important to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Physical Health: You should be in good overall health with no chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or uncontrolled blood pressure. A comprehensive health evaluation will help ensure that you’re ready for surgery.
- Age: Deep plane facelifts are commonly performed on individuals between their 40s and 70s, though this can vary based on the severity of the signs of aging. If you’re experiencing sagging, wrinkles, and loss of facial volume, a deep plane facelift may be the right option.
- Non-Smoking: Smoking interferes with the body’s natural healing process and increases the risk of complications. It’s essential to quit smoking well in advance of surgery and refrain from smoking during recovery.
- Realistic Expectations: A deep plane facelift can significantly improve your appearance, but it’s important to have realistic expectations. The procedure can rejuvenate your face and enhance your natural beauty, but it won’t radically change your identity. It’s essential to undergo surgery for your personal satisfaction and not due to outside pressures.
Revision Rhinoplasty for Ethnic Patients: Correcting Results That Missed the Mark
Revision rhinoplasty for ethnic patients is among the most demanding work in facial surgery because two layers of difficulty stack on each other.
Scar tissue and altered anatomy from the first surgery sit over the original cultural and structural complexity that made the primary rhinoplasty challenging to begin with.
Previous surgery can also limit the amount of septal cartilage available for reconstruction. When additional support is needed, cartilage is often harvested from the ear or rib, adding another level of technical complexity that fewer rhinoplasty surgeons routinely manage.
These are the cases that many surgeons refer elsewhere, and patients frequently travel from out of state to seek Dr. Martin Stepanyan’s expertise.
The Healthgrades reviewer from December 2025 described a prior surgeon who insisted on closed rhinoplasty despite a complex nasal break, delivered an inadequate result, and left the patient unable to breathe properly for more than a year before Dr. Stepanyan corrected both the aesthetics and the breathing through open surgery. The reviewer wrote that they would never consider another surgeon.
Every revision begins with a detailed evaluation of the previous surgery, remaining structural support, scar tissue, healing, and nasal function before a personalized treatment plan is developed. Because previously altered anatomy is less predictable, the goal is to achieve meaningful improvement and better facial balance rather than perfection.
For that reason, candidacy can only be determined through an in-person consultation. Patients who travel from outside California often do so because Dr. Stepanyan combines extensive experience in ethnic rhinoplasty with the reconstructive expertise required for complex revision cases.
Why Choose Dr. Stepanyan for Your Deep Plane Facelift?
Dr. Martin Stepanyan is a highly experienced and board-certified cosmetic surgeon specializing in advanced facial procedures, including deep plane facelifts. With over 27 years of expertise in facial rejuvenation, Dr. Stepanyan is known for his precision, artistry, and dedication to natural-looking results. His patient-centric approach ensures that each individual’s aesthetic goals are carefully considered to achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Stepanyan uses the latest 3D imaging technology to plan each deep plane facelift surgery, providing highly predictable and personalized results. He combines his surgical expertise with a compassionate, attentive approach to ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for every patient.
By choosing Dr. Stepanyan for your deep plane facelift, you can trust that you’re in the hands of a skilled professional who is committed to delivering exceptional results and the highest level of care.
What Does a Deep Plane Facelift Involve?
Here’s an overview of the process, from consultation to recovery:
- Consultation and Pre-Op Preparations
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Stepanyan will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and evaluate your facial anatomy. Together, you’ll decide on the best approach for your deep plane facelift. Pre-operative instructions, such as quitting smoking and adjusting medications, will help ensure a smooth surgery and recovery. - Surgery
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the complexity. Dr. Stepanyan will make discreet incisions around the hairline and ears to access the deeper layers of tissue. He will then reposition the muscles, fat, and skin for a more youthful, lifted appearance. - Recovery
While the recovery time varies, most patients can return to light activities within 10 to 14 days. You may experience some swelling and bruising, but these symptoms will subside over time. Dr. Stepanyan will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. - Follow-Up Care
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and ensure that you’re happy with your results. Over the next few months, as swelling fully subsides, you’ll enjoy the final results of your deep plane facelift, with a natural, youthful, and refreshed appearance.
Achieve a Youthful, Rejuvenated Look with a Deep Plane Facelift
A deep plane facelift is an excellent option for those looking to restore youthful contours and address advanced signs of aging. By lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of the face, this procedure offers dramatic and long-lasting results that look both natural and revitalizing.
How Long Will the Results of a Deep Plane Facelift Last?
The deep plane facelift offers long-lasting results, often lasting 10-15 years or more, depending on factors such as your skin care habits and lifestyle choices. Because the procedure targets the deeper layers of tissue and muscle, it typically offers more durable results compared to traditional facelifts. While aging will continue, the improvements made by a deep plane facelift can keep you looking youthful for many years to come.
Schedule Your Deep Plane Facelift Consultation Today
If you’re ready to rejuvenate your appearance with a deep plane facelift, Dr. Stepanyan and Dr. Lee are here to help. Their expertise, dedication to excellence, and patient-centered care make them the top choice for facial rejuvenation in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Glendale.
To schedule your consultation, contact us online or call (818) 551-0088 today. Let us help you achieve the youthful, refreshed look you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions about Deep Plane Facelift in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles & Glendale, CA
If you’re thinking about a deep plane facelift to rejuvenate your appearance, it’s natural to have questions. Here, we’ve answered some of the most common queries about this transformative procedure. If you have any additional questions or want to explore your options further, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin Stepanyan or Dr. Johnson Lee.
A deep plane facelift is an advanced cosmetic surgery designed to address the signs of aging in the face and neck. Unlike traditional facelifts, which primarily tighten the skin, the deep plane facelift lifts and repositions the deeper layers of tissue—including muscles, fat, and connective tissues. This approach delivers more dramatic, long-lasting results, restoring balance and harmony to the face for a refreshed, natural look.
The deep plane facelift targets the following areas:
- Lower Face: Tightens the jawline and chin, reducing sagging and jowls.
- Mid-Face: Lifts and restores volume to the cheeks, creating a youthful contour.
- Neck: Tightens the skin and muscles, improving the neck profile and reducing sagging.
The deep plane facelift is ideal for individuals looking to address multiple signs of aging, including:
- Skin Sagging: As the skin loses elasticity over time, it begins to sag, particularly around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. The deep plane facelift lifts and tightens these areas for a more youthful appearance.
- Deep Wrinkles and Folds: It smooths out prominent wrinkles such as nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the mouth) and marionette lines (lines from the mouth to the chin).
- Loss of Volume: Aging can cause the cheeks to lose volume, resulting in a hollow appearance. The deep plane facelift restores volume by repositioning fat and tissue.
- Jowls and Drooping Jawline: It eliminates jowls and redefines the jawline, helping to create a more sculpted and youthful profile.
- Neck Sagging: One of the standout benefits of this procedure is its ability to rejuvenate the neck, lifting sagging skin and tightening muscles for a smoother, more defined neck contour.
Facial aging is a natural process influenced by several factors:
- Decline in Collagen and Elastin: Collagen and elastin are essential for skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, the body produces less of these proteins, leading to wrinkles and sagging.
- Reduction in Facial Fat: Over time, fat in the face diminishes and shifts downward, leading to hollow cheeks, sunken eyes, and a less defined jawline.
- Gravity: The pull of gravity causes skin and tissue to sag, contributing to the formation of jowls and a drooping jawline.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun accelerates aging by breaking down collagen, resulting in wrinkles, age spots, and other forms of skin damage.
A deep plane facelift addresses these aging factors by lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of tissue, creating a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
The ideal candidate for a deep plane facelift is generally healthy and has visible signs of aging. If you meet the following criteria, you may be a great candidate:
- Overall Health: You should be in good physical health with no serious medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, or uncontrolled blood pressure). Dr. Stepanyan will evaluate your health before proceeding.
- Age: While the procedure is often recommended for patients in their 40s to 70s, individuals with more advanced signs of aging may also benefit from this surgery.
- Non-Smoking: Smoking impedes healing and increases surgical risks. It’s crucial to quit smoking well before the procedure and refrain from smoking during recovery.
- Realistic Expectations: The deep plane facelift will dramatically rejuvenate your appearance, but it won’t radically change who you are. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what the surgery can achieve and to pursue it for personal satisfaction.
Scarring is minimal with the deep plane facelift. Dr. Stepanyan makes discreet incisions around the hairline and ears, ensuring that any scarring is well-concealed. Over time, the scars fade and become barely noticeable, so you can enjoy a smooth, youthful appearance without visible signs of surgery.
Absolutely! Many patients choose to combine their deep plane facelift with additional procedures, such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lifts, or non-surgical treatments like Botox or dermal fillers. Combining procedures can help address multiple concerns at once, offering a more comprehensive and harmonious rejuvenation of the face.
While both techniques go deeper than the skin, a SMAS facelift lifts the superficial musculoaponeurotic system layer, often separately from the skin. In contrast, a deep plane facelift releases and lifts the SMAS and midface tissues together in a single unit. This allows for more natural movement and improved rejuvenation, particularly around the cheeks and nasolabial folds.
While both techniques go deeper than the skin, a SMAS facelift lifts the superficial musculoaponeurotic system layer, often separately from the skin. In contrast, a deep plane facelift releases and lifts the SMAS and midface tissues together in a single unit. This allows for more natural movement and improved rejuvenation, particularly around the cheeks and nasolabial folds.
Most people feel ready to return to work or light social activities within 10 to 14 days, although some swelling and bruising may persist. Full recovery and final results are typically appreciated within three to six months.
The results are long-lasting—typically 10 to 15 years—but no surgical procedure can stop the natural aging process. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, sun protection, and quality skincare can help preserve your refreshed look for many years.
Yes. One of the hallmarks of a deep plane facelift is its ability to create a refreshed, youthful appearance without looking overdone or unnatural. Dr. Stepanyan and Dr. Lee take great care to preserve your unique features while restoring volume and lift.
Ready to Get Started?
or request a consultation below
“Best decision I have ever made in my life was having Dr. Stepanyan be the surgeon for my rhinoplasty. I am SO happy with the outcome. I always get the best compliments on my nose. He is a true artist and professional.”
— Nicole M.