Deep Plane Facelift in Mission Viejo, Orange County

Name: Deep Plane Facelift
Brand: Orange County Surgical Specialists
Rating: 5 (85 reviews)

Experience long-lasting, natural facial rejuvenation with a deep plane facelift expertly performed by Dr. Reza Bolourian in Mission Viejo.

Mission Viejo Deep Plane Facelift Orange County Surgical Specialists

As we age, the upper neck, the jowls, and the fat in the upper cheeks descend. The neck muscles start to get loose, and by the time we are in our early 50s, we start to see signs of aging in our upper neck. Furthermore, deeper anatomical structures of the neck start to descend. The fat and muscle structures that provide us with beautiful jawlines start to obliterate and form those unwanted jowls, and pretty soon, the neck, the jaw, and our face lose their anatomic distinctions. The descent of fat from the upper cheeks creates deep laugh lines and hollow cheekbones. If you are seeking a transformative procedure that rewinds the clock on facial sagging and laxity, look no further than Orange County Surgical Specialists.

Reza Bolourian, M.D., F.A.C.S., has the experience and qualifications needed to deliver the beautiful facelift results you are seeking. He is skilled in a range of facelift techniques, including the Mission Viejo deep plane facelift. In the past, most facelifts have tended to focus on superficially tightening the skin, which could have resulted in a less natural-looking outcome. During a deep plane facelift, your surgeon goes into the underlying subdermal layers, employing a meticulous approach to lift and tighten tissues at a deeper level. This precision leads to outcomes that are not only more natural in appearance but also endure over time, thoughtfully customized to enhance your individual facial structure.

What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift is a highly advanced surgical technique that lifts not just the skin, but the deeper layers of facial tissue—including fat, muscle, and connective structures—to restore youthful contours from the inside out.

By carefully releasing the ligaments that anchor aging tissue, Dr. Bolourian is able to reposition volume in a natural, upward direction. This deeper adjustment allows for more control and precision in reshaping the jawline, cheeks, and neck, while avoiding the tight or “pulled” appearance often associated with older methods.

Though recovery may be slightly longer than with traditional facelifts, the results are more natural, longer-lasting, and tailored to your facial anatomy.

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What Can a True Deep Plane Neck Lift And Composite Deep Plane Facelift Accomplish That Other Facelifts Don't?

A deep plane facelift stands apart from traditional facelift techniques because it addresses the true origin of facial aging—the deeper layers beneath the skin. While conventional facelifts focus on tightening the surface, they often fail to correct the structural descent of fat pads, muscles, and ligaments that define facial shape. This can lead to short-lived results or an unnatural, stretched appearance.

In a deep plane facelift, Dr. Bolourian carefully releases the retaining ligaments that tether facial tissues downward, including those in the cheeks, jawline, and neck. By releasing and repositioning these layers—including the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) in the face and the platysma muscle in the neck—he is able to lift the entire facial structure as a unified, natural contour.

This method also allows for vertical repositioning of volume, which more closely mirrors the youthful architecture of the face. Unlike other facelifts that pull tissue horizontally, this vertical lift provides a more natural direction of correction—reducing jowls, softening nasolabial folds, and restoring definition to the cheeks and jawline. The neck lift component of the deep plane technique is equally comprehensive.

It addresses not just loose skin, but deeper anatomical concerns like:

Platysma banding
Hypertrophied digastric muscles
Subplatysmal fat
Prominent submandibular glands

By treating these foundational issues, the neck is refined and rejuvenated in a way that standalone lifts cannot achieve.

Perhaps most importantly, a composite deep plane facelift—where the skin and SMAS are lifted together as one layer—reduces tension on the surface. This means incisions heal more cleanly, scars are nearly invisible, and there's no tight or overcorrected look. The result is a refreshed appearance that blends seamlessly with your natural features—refined, but never obvious.

This level of precision requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy. As a dual board-certified surgeon with thousands of facelifts performed, Dr. Bolourian is among the few specialists in Orange County with the expertise to safely and effectively perform this technique.

Before & After Deep Plane Facelift

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Are You a Good Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift and Deep Plane Neck Lift?

Are you a good candidate for a deep plane facelift and deep plane neck lift? There are many advantages to deep plane face and neck lift. But not everyone requires or is a candidate for deep plane facial rejuvenation surgery. You may require a deep plane neck lift, but you do not necessarily need a deep plane facelift. Your surgeon should be able to explain the differences and provide you with the best options available to meet your goals.

Which Type of Facelift is Best?

Each procedure has its pros and cons, and some patients may be better candidates for certain procedures. We are here to help you navigate your options and make an informed decision about any surgery. Schedule your Mission Viejo deep plane facelift consultation with Dr. Bolourian to receive personalized advice. In traditional facelift techniques, the SMAS is either plicated, meaning sutured to a more lifted position, or the SMAS is cut and pulled tight.

The problem with the above techniques is that the ligaments tethering the underlying structures are not released and repositioned. In a true extended deep plane facelift Mission Viejo cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Bolourian, carefully makes incisions in the deeper SMAS layer, dissects beneath the layer, and frees up the ligaments in the neck, lower face, and cheeks to lift up all the sagging structures and situate them to a more natural, youthful position.

What Are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?

A deep plane facelift offers profound, natural rejuvenation by addressing aging at its source, not just the surface. Patients often experience long-lasting improvements in both appearance and confidence. Key benefits include:

Lifting and smoothing of jowls and sagging cheeks
Sharper definition along the jawline and under-chin area
Reduction of neck bands and “turkey wattle”
Softening of deep lines around the mouth and nose
Gentle elevation of the lower eyelids
Long-term results that maintain their integrity as you age

Your Mission Viejo Deep Plane Facelift Consultation

Contact us today in order to schedule your personalized consultation with double board-certified facial plastic surgery specialist Dr. Reza Bolourian. Make sure to ask any and all questions you may have about a deep plane facelift.

Dr. Bolourian will take time to learn about your goals, assess the structure of your face, and ask about your complete medical history. His thorough process is designed to guarantee that a facelift is not only a suitable option for you but also the safest and most efficacious choice.

If you're traveling to Orange County Surgical Specialists for care, you can start with a virtual consultation. Whatever your goals for treatment, individual needs, or geographic location, we will work to provide you with a low-stress, positive, and highly fulfilling personal journey.

Your Mission Viejo Deep Plane Facelift Procedure

Your facelift will be performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia alongside either general anesthesia or twilight sedation. Dr. Bolourian performs all surgical procedures in our highly equipped surgical facility. The length of your surgery will vary based on whether you decide to have multiple procedures performed simultaneously.

Most facelifts take between two and five hours. During your pre-operative consultation, we will give you detailed instructions to follow for the procedure you will be receiving, including any preparations you need to make, like pausing certain medications before the surgery and arranging a ride home after your procedure.

Deep Plane Facelift Results

As early swelling fades in the first few weeks, your results will begin to take shape, revealing smoother contours, lifted cheeks, and a more sculpted jawline. The neck appears firmer, and sagging in the lower face is replaced by a youthful, naturally refreshed appearance.

Because the deep plane approach lifts tissues at their foundational level, your results won't just look better—they'll last longer, often for 10 years or more. And most importantly, you'll still look like you—simply more rested, vibrant, and confident.

Deep Plane Facelift Recovery and Aftercare

During the planning stages, Dr. Bolourian will make sure you know approximately how much recovery time your individual procedure will require so that you can arrange for time off from work or other activities. After returning home, get plenty of rest, take any medications as directed, and follow your aftercare instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing. Dr. Bolourian and the Orange County Surgical Specialists team are always here to answer questions or offer extra support as you recover.

Once I found Dr. Bolourian I felt absolutely fortunate

At my initial consultation I was taken away by his compassion and caring persona. His superb professionalism, deep knowledge of his field, as well as his kindness blew me away. Dr Bolourian is an exceptionally skilled surgeon and a talented artist. Dr. Bolourian listened to my goals and objectives while provided me with options. He understood my fears and immediately put me at ease. I instantly felt that I can trust him making me feel comfortable and safe. I received the highest quality of care and most beautiful results! Ohhh... and his office staff…. they are nothing short of Excellent! They are genuine and caring. Thank you so much for the amazing experience. I'm so very grateful to have found Dr. Bolourian!

Olya Wadsworth

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Why Choose Orange County Surgical Specialists for Your Deep Plane Facelift in Mission Viejo?

At Orange County Surgical Specialists, your deep plane facelift is performed by Dr. Reza Bolourian, a dual board-certified facial surgeon with over 20 years of experience and a specialty focus in advanced facelift techniques. Unlike high-volume cosmetic centers, our practice offers a boutique, relationship-based experience where every procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and goals. Dr. Bolourian's meticulous approach, extensive anatomical knowledge, and commitment to natural results make him one of the most trusted facelift surgeons in South Orange County.

Deep Plane Facelift Frequently Asked Questions

Are you receiving a "real" deep plane facelift and deep plane neck lift?

Are you receiving a "real" deep plane facelift and deep plane neck lift? Unfortunately, many surgeons have different definitions for deep plane facelift surgery. Do your research and understand the differences in facelift surgery, ask questions, and find out if your surgeon is able to meet your expectations. Remember, a composite deep plane facelift treats the skin and SMAS in one unit from the point where facial aging begins. It leaves no lumps and bumps, creates no tension, and creates a natural, rejuvenated look.

How frequently does your surgeon perform deep plane facelifts?

How frequently does your surgeon perform deep plane facelifts? Facial anatomy is very complex. A deep plane facelift surgeon should be very familiar with the anatomy of the facial nerve to minimize the risk of damage to facial nerve branches during surgery, which can lead to facial asymmetry.

Do you require general anesthesia for the procedure?

Do you require general anesthesia for the procedure? At our surgery center, most of our patients prefer to have twilight sedation for the procedure. This method of anesthesia is safe and predictable.

What sets apart a Deep Plane Facelift from an SMAS Facelift?

During a deep plane facelift, your surgeon carefully releases the connections between the skin, fat layers, and muscles in the neck and lower face, allowing for precise adjustments to each layer. In contrast, an SMAS facelift involves lifting and adjusting these layers collectively. During your consultation, we will evaluate your specific needs and assist you in determining which option aligns best with your needs.

Will there be visible scars?

Dr. Bolourian draws on his extensive experience in facial plastic surgery techniques to perform procedures that leave extremely negligible to non-existent scars. Seeking out a surgeon of his skill level ensures you get the most natural-looking, undetectable results possible.

Can a deep plane facelift help with facial asymmetry?

Yes, in many cases, a deep plane facelift can improve mild to moderate facial asymmetry by repositioning underlying structures more evenly. While it won't correct congenital or skeletal asymmetry, it can restore more balanced contours to the cheeks, jawline, and neck through tailored lifting techniques.

Will I still be able to make natural facial expressions after surgery?

Absolutely. The deep plane technique preserves your facial expressiveness by working below the delicate facial nerve branches, not on or around them. In skilled hands, the procedure enhances your appearance without compromising movement or animation.

How soon before a major event should I schedule a deep plane facelift?

We typically recommend scheduling your surgery at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance of any major life event. While most swelling resolves in the first few weeks, subtle refinements and full settling of the results continue over several months for your final, most natural outcome.

Can I combine a deep plane facelift with skin treatments or injectables later on?

Yes. Many patients continue to maintain and enhance their results with treatments like laser resurfacing, microneedling, or occasional neuromodulators. These treatments can be performed after you've fully healed and will be customized based on your skin quality and long-term goals.