When the mid face, jowls and jawline begin to descend, tightening skin at the surface can only do so much. A deep plane facelift works deeper, releasing the supporting ligaments and repositioning the deeper tissues and muscle layer together, so the lift is structural rather than superficial.
Dr Scott J Turner is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) practising in Sydney, with a practice concentrated on aesthetic facial plastic surgery. He completed specific training in deep plane facelift technique and performs surgery at accredited private hospitals in Sydney.
Dr Turner conducts a minimum of two consultations before proceeding with surgery, both personally, so that the plan is considered carefully and decided together. Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
The deep plane technique works beneath the superficial muscle layer of the face, the SMAS. Rather than tightening skin alone, the deeper tissues and the muscle layer are released from their supporting ligaments and repositioned together as a single unit.
Because the lift is carried out in this deeper plane, tension sits on the structural tissues rather than the skin surface. For many people this allows the mid face, jawline and upper neck to be addressed together, with the skin redraped over the repositioned foundation rather than pulled tight.
A deep plane facelift is a complex aesthetic procedure performed under general anaesthesia. It is one of several techniques Dr Turner may discuss with you. The most suitable approach depends on your facial anatomy, the changes you wish to address and your medical history, and is decided together at consultation.
Figures are indicative and confirmed at your consultation. Medicare and private health rebates do not apply to cosmetic facelift surgery.
Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors, including the individual's genetics, diet and exercise. Photographs are of Dr Turner's patients and are published with consent. Some images may have the patient's tattoos, jewellery or other identifiable items blurred to protect patient identities.
Cosmetic surgery in Australia follows a considered process. A GP referral is required before your surgical consultation, and there is time built in to ask questions and reflect before any decision is made.
Obtain a referral from your GP and request a consultation. The team will help you arrange a time at Bondi Junction or Manly.
Dr Turner assesses your face, listens to your goals and explains the options, including whether the deep plane technique suits you.
You have time to consider the information. A second consultation confirms your plan and addresses any further questions.
Surgery is performed at an accredited Sydney private hospital, followed by a structured recovery and review schedule.
All surgery carries risks. A facelift is a significant operation, and it is important to understand the potential complications before deciding to proceed. These are discussed fully and individually during your consultations.
Recovery takes time and varies between individuals. Dr Turner provides written information and the opportunity to ask questions before you consent to surgery. Seeking a second opinion is encouraged.
Facelift surgery is quoted individually, because the plan, theatre and anaesthetic time differ for each person. You receive an itemised written quote covering surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital and aftercare before you decide to proceed.
Medicare and private health rebates do not apply to cosmetic facelift surgery. A surgical deposit applies only after your second consultation.
Both work with the SMAS, the muscle layer of the face. A SMAS facelift folds or partially releases that layer while the deeper tissues stay in place. A deep plane facelift dissects beneath the SMAS, releases selected retaining ligaments and repositions the deeper tissues of the mid face and jawline. The right approach depends on your anatomy and is decided at consultation.
Yes. A GP referral is required before a surgical consultation for a cosmetic procedure in Australia, in line with Medical Board and AHPRA requirements.
A deep plane facelift can be performed with or without a neck lift. Where there is banding or fullness under the chin, a neck lift component may be added. This is assessed at consultation, and it affects surgical time, recovery and cost.
Recovery varies between patients. Swelling, bruising and tightness are expected early and settle over the following weeks. Many patients plan two to three weeks away from work, and healing continues over several months.
Yes. Any facelift involves incisions and permanent scars, usually placed around the ear and into the hairline so they sit within natural contours. How a scar matures varies from person to person and is discussed at consultation.
Cost varies because each surgical plan differs. As an indicative figure, a deep plane facelift with a neck lift component is from around $35,000, all-inclusive, covering the surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital and aftercare. Medicare and private health rebates do not apply, and you receive an itemised written quote after consultation.
Submit photos of your concerns and receive a personalised response from Dr Turner's team. A face-to-face consultation following a GP referral is still required before any surgery.
Request a consultation to talk through your goals, your options and what surgery would involve for you, with clear information and time to decide.