A deep plane facelift and neck lift repositions the deep tissues of the cheeks, jawline and neck, aiming for better tissue tension and a natural contour. It addresses sagging, jowls and neck banding. The technique has been described since 1990 and is widely studied; Dr. Chung decides at your evaluation whether it is right for you.
A facelift (rhytidectomy) repositions sagging tissues and removes excess skin. Unlike non-surgical treatments, which address volume, texture or lines, surgery acts on the descent of the deep tissues.
In the deep plane technique the surgeon works beneath the SMAS, in the deep plane of the face, and the tissues are repositioned together.5,6 In the neck, the technique is extended to treat cervical laxity and platysmal bands.5 The aim is more even tension and a natural result, without relying on pulling the skin alone.
The technique has been described since 1990 and is widely studied,1,6 but it is not the only option: Dr. Chung assesses at your evaluation whether it suits you. It is often combined with eyelid surgery, forehead lift or a neck lift, depending on the case.
Every step is planned for your face: technique, tension and incision placement are decided at your in-person evaluation.
Repositions sagging cheeks and the jowl line for a more defined lower face.
Redefines the contour between the face and the neck.
Treats loose neck skin, platysmal bands and the double-chin appearance, when they apply to your case.
The goal is looking rested, not operated on; it is planned for each face.
Dr. Chung and his team follow your recovery from day one until the final assessment of the result.
It is a facelift and neck lift technique that works in the deep plane of the face, beneath the SMAS, so the tissues are repositioned together with better tension.5,6 In a traditional facelift the tension tends to fall more on the skin or on a superficial layer. Which one suits you is decided at your evaluation with Dr. Chung.
That is not the goal. The aim is a natural result: looking rested, not operated on. To achieve it, the direction and tension of the tissues are planned for each face.
It depends on the case. 2025 systematic reviews found satisfactory, lasting results with both techniques, with comparable safety profiles, and conclude that the choice should be individualized.2,3 There is no scientific consensus on which is superior: some studies suggest an advantage for the deep plane in the midface, and another review found no significant improvement or longer duration.4,6 Dr. Chung explains at your evaluation which technique fits your anatomy, your age and your degree of laxity.
Incisions are designed around the ear and within the hairline, so scars are discreet once healed. Their final appearance varies with each person's healing.
Every facelift carries risks. In a meta-analysis of 45 studies and 10,784 patients treated with the deep plane technique, no cases of permanent facial nerve injury were observed, and temporary injury was estimated at about 1.2%.1 Another meta-analysis found similar nerve injury rates between deep plane and SMAS, almost all temporary.3 Figures vary between series, depend on the surgeon's experience and are not a promise for an individual case. Dr. Chung explains the risks in writing before surgery.
Most patients return to work within 2 to 3 weeks, once swelling and bruising have settled. If you travel from another city or country, the recommended stay for facial surgery is 7 to 10 days after surgery; the days before surgery do not count. Dr. Chung gives you your personal flight clearance based on your recovery.
A deep facelift requires knowing the layers, ligaments and the location of the facial nerves, because the surgeon works close to them. Dr. Chung is a plastic surgeon certified by the CMCPER (No. 1794, recertified 2025–2030) and this is anatomy he works with in the operating room. He does the planning and follow-up himself.
It depends on the areas treated, the technique and the complexity of the case, so no price is published. Your quote is given after the evaluation with Dr. Chung (consultation $1,000 MXN, in person or by video call). The photo evaluation on WhatsApp is free.
Your free WhatsApp evaluation with Dr. Chung is confidential, personalized, and without any commitment. In-person and video call consultations are also available, at their corresponding cost.
Photo evaluation by WhatsApp: free. Send your photos and questions; Dr. Chung reviews your case personally, with no commitment.
If you decide to continue, a consultation with Dr. Chung costs $1,000 MXN:
Procedure prices are quoted after the evaluation: every plan depends on your anatomy and your goals.
General-information references. Study results are not a promise for an individual case and do not correspond to cases of Dr. Chung. This page is informational and does not replace a personal medical evaluation.