The deep plane technique works by releasing the retaining ligaments and repositioning the tissue at depth, not just tightening the skin, which allows for a more natural, longer-lasting result. Not every face needs it, and during your consultation we assess whether it is right for you or whether another technique is a better fit.
From: 12.000 €
Surgery duration:
5-7 hours
Recovery time:
2 to 4 weeks
Synapta® protocol:
Included
Anesthesia:
General
Hospital stay:
Requires 1 night
Social life:
Between 10 and 15 days
Full recovery:
4 to 6 months
The deep plane facelift is a facelift technique that works on the deep planes of the face. It does not simply tighten the skin: it repositions muscles, ligaments and fat compartments as a single unit.
This approach makes it possible to lift the cheeks, soften the nasolabial folds, redefine the facial contour and improve sagging in the neck, achieving comprehensive rejuvenation without altering the natural expression of the face.
The result is a younger, fresher and more harmonious appearance, without the artificial "stretched face" effect, because the tissues are repositioned from their true supporting structure.
No facelift technique is best for everyone. The right choice depends on each patient's anatomy and tissues, and the surgeon selects the one that suits each case.
Types of deep plane facelift
It treats the face and neck as a whole, repositioning the deep planes from top to bottom. It is the approach indicated when there is overall aging with sagging cheeks, pronounced folds, loss of jawline definition and sagging in the neck.
When aging is concentrated in the cheekbones and cheeks, the mid-face lift raises those tissues without treating the neck.
When sagging is concentrated in the neck and jawline, the neck lift treats that area specifically, either alone or combined with the Deep Plane Facelift.
The Deep Plane Facelift works beneath the SMAS, the musculoaponeurotic layer of the face. The surgeon releases the ligaments that hold the descended tissues in place and repositions the skin, the SMAS and the cheek fat as a single unit, without tightening the skin separately.
This lifts the midface, defines the jawline and improves the neck, with the tension borne by the deep planes rather than the skin. The procedure is performed in an operating room, under general anesthesia and with continuous monitoring.
The first consultation is held directly with the specialist surgeon who will perform your procedure, who will assess your case, answer your questions and design a personalized surgical plan. To book the appointment, a payment of €80 is required in advance. If you cannot travel, the first visit can also be done by video call with the surgeon who would operate on you: it costs €50, which is deducted if you decide to have surgery.
Optionally, a complementary ultrasound study with NESAI® can be carried out, which helps optimize surgical planning and adds an extra level of safety and precision to the procedure. Available for €90.
Before the procedure, a full medical preparation is carried out, including a review of tests, technical planning and personalized guidelines to ensure the surgery is performed under optimal conditions.
The surgery is performed in accredited operating rooms by the Institute's facial surgery team, which specializes in deep plane facelift techniques.
In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make the post-op period more manageable.
Throughout the process, you are accompanied and supervised by our medical team, with regular check-ups to ensure proper progress and an optimal result.
After surgery, a recovery process begins, closely supported by our medical team, with regular check-ups to ensure proper progress and a stable, natural and long-lasting result.
As a guide, the result of a deep plane facelift lasts between 5 and 8 years. It is an average: in each patient it may be more or less.
How long it lasts does not depend on the technique. Deep plane, high SMAS, plication and MACS lift work on the deep tissues in different ways, but none of them lasts longer than another in itself. What makes the difference is the quality of the skin and tissues, genetics and how each person heals.
There is a published study, with 10 years of follow-up, that compares several facelift techniques. Its conclusion: from 5 years on, a little maintenance is advisable, whichever technique is used.
That is why the technique is chosen according to what each face needs, not according to how long it lasts.
“One key does not open every lock. Some cases call for one technique and some call for another.”
Dr. Javier de Benito
Would you like to have a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift at Instituto de Benito starts from €12,000, varying according to the extent of the surgery, the technique used, the operating time and the tests and follow-up included, and is tailored to each patient.
You can finance this procedure at 0% interest. See the options on our financing page.
*Prices valid in 2026. The exact price is given after the visit, once the surgeon has assessed your case.
Surgery is recommended in the following cases:
The deep plane facelift repositions the deep structures of the face, restoring firmness and definition.
This technique redefines the jawline and cheeks, restoring structure and youthfulness to the face.
By working on the deep planes, the procedure softens the folds without relying on skin tension.
The deep plane facelift rejuvenates the face as a whole while preserving its natural expression.
Beyond the aesthetic change, many patients want to look better and younger, and to feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance.
It is the ideal technique for those who want powerful rejuvenation that holds up over time, with no artificial effect.
Facelift with the deep plane technique
Facelift with the deep plane technique
Neck lift
Facelift with double chin correction
Deep plane facelift
Deep plane facelift
Live outside Barcelona or Madrid?
Start with a video consultation with our surgeons. The surgeon who will operate on you assesses your case, answers your questions and gives you an exact, personalised quote. No travel needed for the first visit.
50 €
video consultation with your surgeon
Dr. David Neagu
Facial and maxillofacial surgery
Dr. Álvaro Sada
Facial and maxillofacial surgery
Although the deep plane facelift is a well-established facial rejuvenation technique, not every patient is a suitable candidate. At Instituto de Benito, the decision to operate is always based on medical and safety criteria, above any aesthetic consideration. A good candidate is not defined solely by the wish to rejuvenate the face, but by their general state of health, their emotional stability and realistic expectations about the result.
| Contraindicación | Motivo |
|---|---|
| Active infection, local or systemic | Any infectious process increases the risk of complications, poor healing and infection of the treated tissues. Surgery should be postponed until it has fully resolved. |
| Uncontrolled systemic diseases | Conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, heart failure, severe lung disease or uncontrolled hypertension increase anesthetic and surgical risk. They must be stabilized before the procedure is considered. |
| Severe coagulation disorders | They increase the risk of hematomas, intraoperative bleeding and postoperative complications, one of the main concerns in facial rejuvenation surgery. A prior hematological assessment is required. |
| Treatment with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs | It is not an absolute contraindication, but it requires specific planning and, where possible, a temporary suspension or adjustment coordinated with the prescribing doctor. |
| Active smoking | Nicotine reduces blood flow to the skin and significantly increases the risk of skin necrosis, delayed healing, wound dehiscence and infection. Quitting smoking is recommended for at least 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery. |
| Vascular disease or significant microcirculation disorders | Blood supply to the skin is essential for proper healing. Conditions that compromise blood flow increase the risk of complications and require an individualized assessment. |
| Active autoimmune diseases | Conditions such as lupus, scleroderma or certain types of vasculitis can affect healing and the inflammatory response. The indication must be individualized together with the relevant specialist. |
| Body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations | When the motivation for surgery stems from a distorted perception of body image or from expectations that cannot be met, surgery will not resolve the dissatisfaction. These patients require a prior psychological assessment. |
| Unstable psychological state or uncontrolled psychiatric disorders | Recovery and satisfaction with the result also depend on adequate emotional stability. It is advisable to stabilize the clinical situation before considering a cosmetic procedure. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | Although the deep plane facelift is a facial surgery, pregnancy and breastfeeding involve physiological changes and an anesthetic context in which elective cosmetic surgery should be postponed. |
| Active drug use or uncontrolled alcoholism | These situations increase anesthetic risk, make recovery more difficult and can compromise adherence to post-operative care. |
| Recent facial surgery or unresolved previous complications | The presence of hematomas, infection, inadequate healing or tissue changes after previous surgery means waiting for these to resolve before a new procedure. |
| Uncontrolled high blood pressure | It is a major risk factor for the development of postoperative hematomas, one of the most significant complications of a facelift. It must be properly controlled before surgery. |
| Active skin conditions in the surgical area | Dermatitis, skin infections or inflammatory processes of the face must be treated beforehand to minimize the risk of healing complications. |
| Biological age or frailty that increases surgical risk | Chronological age is not a contraindication in itself, but patients with significant frailty or multiple comorbidities may not be suitable candidates following the anesthetic and medical assessment. |
| Inability to follow post-operative care | The success of a deep plane facelift also depends on following medical recommendations, check-ups and aftercare. When this cannot be ensured, surgery should be reconsidered. |
One of the reasons the deep plane facelift has become established as a facial rejuvenation technique is that, when correctly indicated and performed by experienced surgeons, it has a well-established safety profile. However, like any surgical procedure, it is not free of risks.
At Instituto de Benito, patient safety is the absolute priority. Surgery is performed in an accredited operating room, under anesthesia administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist, following strict protocols for asepsis, bleeding control and post-operative follow-up.
If, after the procedure, you notice a sudden increase in volume on one side of the face or in the neck, severe pain that does not improve with the prescribed medication, persistent bleeding, a fever above 38 °C, progressive redness, discharge from the wound, difficulty breathing or any significant change in facial movement, you should contact the clinic immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. Most serious complications can be treated effectively when detected early.
These effects are part of the normal recovery process and should not be considered complications:
There are certain issues which, although uncommon and generally manageable, are worth knowing about before the procedure:
Most of these situations can be managed with regular check-ups and conservative treatment, and the need for further surgery is uncommon.
Although their incidence is low, every patient should be aware of the possible complications before undergoing a deep plane facelift:
Instituto de Benito performs the Deep Plane Facelift in Barcelona, with more than 40 years of experience and thousands of satisfied patients.
Our team combines surgical artistry, maximum technical precision and emotional care, contributing to natural, safe results in perfect harmony with each face.
«One key does not open every lock»
At Instituto de Benito we have more than 40 years of experience in plastic and cosmetic facial surgery, with a strong specialization in facial surgery. Over the course of our career, we have performed more than 7,000 facial surgeries, consolidating a high level of precision, safety and natural results.
We place special emphasis on facial harmony and on personalizing each treatment, supporting the patient throughout the whole process with complete post-op follow-up to ensure an optimal recovery and satisfactory results.
The first consultation can be held by video call before you travel. It costs €50, deducted if you decide to have surgery, and it is with the surgeon who would operate on you. All our advisors and surgeons speak English.
The first step is not surgery: it is a consultation with the surgeon who would perform your procedure. They will assess your case, answer your questions and, after the visit, give you the exact price.
The first consultation costs €80, which is deducted from the cost of surgery if you decide to have your procedure with us. You can also call us.
Deep, natural and harmonious facial rejuvenation, with a more defined contour, lifted cheeks and a younger appearance without changing your expression. The change becomes visible gradually. As a guide, the result is already visible to others at around a month to a month and a half, and full recovery comes between 4 and 6 months.
Discomfort is usually moderate and is effectively controlled with medication and advanced recovery protocols. Most patients return to a quiet social life between 10 and 15 days.
No. The Deep Plane Facelift is designed to rejuvenate without altering your expression or features, avoiding an artificial or "stretched" look.
The deep plane facelift is a safe procedure when performed in specialized centers by expert surgeons, but like any surgery it carries potential risks that you should be aware of.
At Instituto de Benito, safety is the priority and all procedures are performed under strict medical and monitoring protocols, minimizing complications.
As a guide, between 5 and 8 years. How long it lasts does not depend on the technique used, but on the quality of the tissues, genetics and how each patient heals. From around 5 years on, a little maintenance is usually advisable.
Exercise: after 4–6 weeks. Sun or beach: after 6–8 weeks, always with high sun protection.
The deep plane facelift works on the deep planes of the face, repositioning the true supporting structures rather than only tightening the skin. That does not make it the best technique for every case: the surgeon chooses the one that suits each patient.
Yes. It can be combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), facial fat grafting, chin surgery (mentoplasty) or other rejuvenation treatments, always subject to a personalized medical assessment.
Moderate weight changes do not usually alter the result significantly, although keeping a stable weight helps maintain it better over time.
Most patients return to their social life between 10 and 15 days. As a guide, full recovery comes between 4 and 6 months.
Every face and neck lift aims for the same thing: repositioning the deep tissues, redraping the skin and removing the excess, with almost no pulling. The deep plane is used more in faces with marked marionette lines, significant sagging and very deep nasolabial folds. In younger patients, with a slight loss of jawline definition, a high SMAS, a plication or a MACS lift also solves it. The surgeon chooses the technique according to what each patient presents.
Medical review
Average rating: 4.8 / 5
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Aura Motiska
Googlehace 9 meses
I had a deep plane facelift with upper and lower blepharoplasty by Dr. David Neagu, and I couldn’t be happier. The results are incredibly natural—I look refreshed and like myself, just better. Dr. Neagu and his entire team were kind, caring, and highly skilled from start to finish. I felt supported every step of the...
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Maru Ortega
Googlehace 11 meses
Podría poner 20* a mí querido cirujano David Neagu por los veinte años que me ha quitado de la cara. Haces magia Doc!!! Mil gracias al equipazo por cuidarme: Monika, Julia, Cris, Eva. Un beso y abrazo gigante para tod@s
Kirsten Case
Googlehace 1 año
I live in France had a lower face and neck lift. Having researched carefully I chose Dr Neagu and I am thrilled with my results. I am 67 and had a facelift in America 8 years ago but wrinkles and loose skin on neck had bothered me for the last year or so. I have very prominent salivary glands and that was not...
Cristina Betancor
Googlehace 11 meses
Encantada con el resultado y con el trato recibido por la doctora Marina y todo su equipo. Muy profesionales, atentos y cercanos en todo momento.
Nora Haxha
Googlehace 1 año
Such a lovely team and experience! From my first visit to the online follow-ups, everyone has been so kind, caring, and professional. Dr. Neagu and Dr. García are truly exceptional I couldn’t feel in better hands. Thank you for everything! 🤍
Beatriz Perelló Gonzalo
Googlehace 1 año
La doctora Irene y su asistente Laura, me hicieron confiar desde el principio! Pero Los resultados superaron mis expectativas, me dejé llevar y ahora parezco 10 años menos, una piel increíble y me siento con mucha más confianza. 1000 recomendable! La doctora es un amor
Teresa Pacho
Googlehace 1 año
Trato profesional y cercano. Excelencia en la cirujana Marina Garcia y todo el equipo. Honestidad en la comunicación.
Dolores Peñalver
Googlehace 1 año
Mi experiencia en el Instituto de Benito ha sido excelente. Agradecer a la Doctora María Gijón y a todo su equipo por su gran profesionalidad y por ayudar a los clientes ante cualquier duda o aclaración
Marisa Canseco
Googlehace 1 año
El doctor Fernández y su enfermera Cristina son profesionales excelentes y dan un estupendo trato. Los recomiendo al 100%. Los resultados se ajustan totalmente a lo que se comprometen.
Sandra TB
Googlehace 1 año
Agradecer enormemente a la Doctora Marina por el trato durante todo el proceso y por el resultado final. Mi experiencia ha sido maravillosa. Agradecer también a Montse por hacer que esto sea posible.
julia juan fornes
Googlehace 1 año
La Dra Marina Garcia muy profesional y transmite muchísima confianza desde el primer momento.
Maragda L
Googlehace 9 meses
Mi experiencia ha sido de lo mejor, me he sentido totalmente cuidada en todo el proceso de mi operación desde Mónica siempre atenta a mis consultas, hasta las chicas de los masajes y cómo no, con el doctor Orestes Fernández con quién me he sentido acompañada en toda la operación y sobre todo recuperación. Sin duda...
Paula Roldan Martinez-checa
Googlehace 10 meses
La Doctora Marina Garcia es totalmente un acierto. Sinceridad desde el primer momento, te escucha y te aconseja conforme tu idea y de manera que quede lo más natural y bonito posible, siendo siempre realistas. El resultado totalmente bonito, más natural y mejor de lo que incluso yo me pensaba. Una recuperación súper...
Susi Rodríguez Suárez
Googlehace 1 año
La Dra. Marina es maravillosa. Un equipo de profesionales de 10.
Carlos rubio miguel
Googlehace 1 año
Profesionales excelentes con un trato personal inmejorable. Muy recomendado!
