Deep Plane Facelift in Asian Patients.

Abstract

Background: The deep plane facelift has the technical advantages of being more effective in mobilization of soft tissues of the anterior face and allowing for more direct fixation of these tissues. These attributes of the deep plane facelift make it advantageous for Asian faces.

Methods: The From Jan 2021 and August 2023, 61 Asian patients with a mean age of 52 years (Range 38-75) underwent the deep plane facelift. Our surgical technique and refinements in performing this procedure were demonstrated in detail. These included specific mobilization end-points, a systemic approach to suture fixation with each fixation suture targeting specific landmarks in the anterior face for tightening and a systematic system of skin flap inset to ensure precise and tension free closure. The mean follow up was 19 months. Patient satisfaction was assessed with a targeted survey covering their appearance and quality of life.

Results: Long-term results were good. Patient satisfaction was high with 98% reported that they were satisfied or highly satisfied with their results. Patients reported improvement of both their appearance and quality of life after the surgery. Complication rates were low and included superficial epidermolysis behind the ears [n = 2 (3%)], hypertrophic scarring [n = 1 (1.6%)] and facial nerve neuropraxia [n = 1 (1.6%)]. There was no hematoma.

Conclusions: The deep plane facelift is a very effective facelift technique for Asian patients. The technical refinements presented in this paper allow the procedure to be performed safely and predictably.