Deep Plane Facelift in Seoul
A deep plane facelift lifts the cheeks, jowls and neck as one unit beneath the SMAS layer, releasing the retaining ligaments instead of just pulling skin. At Grand Plastic Surgery in Gangnam it takes about 4 hours under general anaesthesia, with same-day discharge and stitches out in 1–2 weeks.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rhee Se Whan, plastic surgeon · Updated October 2026
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical facelift for moderate to severe ageing. Rather than tightening only the skin, the surgeon works beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and lifts the skin, fat and SMAS together as a single unit.
Because the retaining ligaments that tether the cheek and jaw are released and re-secured, sagging cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, jowls and loose jawline tissue can be repositioned more effectively than with surface-level techniques — and with less tension on the skin, which helps the result look natural.
At Grand Plastic Surgery the procedure is planned around your facial proportions and the degree of sagging, and it can include the neck in the same operation.
Three layers, one operation
Ageing loosens the ligaments that hold skin and fat in place. Treating the cause — not just the surface — is what keeps the result looking like you.
Release the ligaments
Loose malar, masseteric and mandibular ligaments are corrected so tissue can return to its original position.
Lift the SMAS layer
The muscle-fascia layer is lifted firmly upward, so surrounding tissue does not slacken again.
Re-drape the skin
Skin is smoothed over the new foundation and excess is removed through incisions hidden around the hairline and ears.
Why patients choose deep plane
The benefits Grand’s surgeons see most often in international patients.
Face & neck together
Sagging, folds and neck lines improve in a single procedure.
A slimmer V-line
Cheeks, under-chin and neck tighten for a more defined contour.
Natural expression
Less skin tension means no wind-swept or over-pulled look.
Long-lasting
Repositioning deep structures gives a durable anti-ageing effect.
You may be a good candidate if…
- You have moderate to advanced sagging of the cheeks, jowls or jawline
- Deep nasolabial folds or marionette lines have formed
- You want to refresh the face and neck together
- Lasers or thread lifts no longer give you enough lift
- You want long-term improvement and are in generally good health
If you only have mild early changes, a mini facelift or thread lift may be enough.
Where it works
A deep plane facelift focuses on restoring structure in the mid and lower face, and can extend to the neck.
real Grand patients ♡
Real patients, quietly transformed
Men and women who chose Grand’s deep plane facelift — photographed before surgery and after recovery.
- Lifted cheeks and softer nasolabial folds
- A cleaner jawline with less jowling
- A tighter neck without an over-pulled look
Individual results vary. Photos are of Grand Plastic Surgery patients and are shared with consent.
What recovery looks like
Typical milestones after a deep plane facelift. Healing differs from person to person.
Home the same day
Surgery takes about 4 hours; you rest and go back to your hotel the same day.
Peak swelling
Swelling peaks within 48 hours. Use ice packs for the first week, keep your head raised.
Stitches out
Stitches are removed and most bruising fades; many patients fly home after this check.
Final contour
Residual swelling settles and the result keeps refining for several months.
How long does it last? Results are generally long-lasting, often for many years. Natural ageing continues, but the face stays noticeably younger than before surgery.
Preparation & aftercare
Before treatment
- Tell your surgeon about every medication you take
- Stop aspirin and painkillers 7–10 days before surgery
- Stop smoking and drinking at least 3 days before
- Fast for 8 hours before surgery (no gum, candy or drinks)
- Postpone if you have a cold, fever or severe cough
- Bring a hat, sunglasses or scarf, and do not drive afterwards
After treatment
- Sleep with your head raised 20–30° on 2–3 pillows; do not sleep face-down
- Avoid sleeping on your side for 4 weeks
- Ice packs for the first 7 days, then warm packs
- No jogging, swimming or massage for up to 6 weeks
- No sauna for about 4 weeks; avoid alcohol and smoking for 3–4 weeks
- Protect healing incisions from the sun
Chief Director · Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Rhee Se Whan
Dr. Rhee has specialised in facial lifting since 2004 and trains plastic surgeons from around the world in the deep plane technique. He personally handles your consultation, surgery and follow-up.
- M.D. & Master’s, Hanyang University; Adjunct Professor of Plastic Surgery
- Plastic surgery training, Northwestern University Hospital, Chicago
- MIPS Academic Chair; invited lecturer, 2019 Healthy Life Forum (Russian MOH)
- Specialising in facial lifting at Grand Plastic Surgery since 2004
Deep plane facelift questions
Will a deep plane facelift look natural?
How long does a deep plane facelift take?
Do I need to stay in hospital?
Is a deep plane facelift more invasive than other facelifts?
How long do results last?
Can it be combined with other procedures?
How much does a deep plane facelift cost in Korea?
Find out if deep plane is right for you
Send 3 photos (front, 45°, side) on WhatsApp. Dr. Rhee’s team replies with a personalised plan and estimate — in English.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rhee Se Whan · Last updated October 2026 · This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person medical consultation.
