September 15, 2026
by Jonathan Dang, MD
The term “deep plane” facelift has become a common term in plastic surgery recently, and many patients have started asking more about this procedure. What does the term actually mean? Well, it isn’t as clear-cut as you’d think. That’s because different surgeons have their own definition.

Facelift before and after by Dr. Jonathan Dang, Scottsdale
Generally speaking, when doing a facelift, there is a layer of the face called the SMAS, which stands for superficial musculoaponeurotic system. That sounds like a mouthful, but in simple terms, it’s the layer of the face right below the skin and fat but above the facial muscles.
The SMAS is the primary tissue layer that facelift surgeons use to pull, manipulate, and anchor in order to provide long-lasting results. We rarely ever rely only on tightening and pulling the skin, as this will always be subject to the effects of gravity over time.
There are many different ways board-certified facial plastic surgeons manipulate the SMAS during a facelift. They can do a tiny amount of tightening, remove some, fold it over and tighten, and so on.
Considering a Facelift? Call (480) 382-4995 or schedule a consultation with Jonathan Dang, MD to discuss your goals and the surgical approach that may be right for you.
When plastic surgeons say “deep plane,” it typically means they are lifting up the SMAS in a more extensive fashion toward certain anatomical boundaries, with the intent of releasing more tethering ligaments and getting more movement.
Basically, it just means they are performing a much more extensive dissection of the SMAS layer compared to a “standard” facelift.
Now the main question is, does this mean better results? I’ve seen great results when facial plastic surgeons do either technique. I personally perform a deep plane facelift for my patients since that gives me consistent results. What ultimately matters is not the specific technique, but a combination of surgeon experience, attention to detail, and using sound surgical principles.
See Facelift Before & After Photos. View Dr. Dang’s results and see how facelift surgery can create natural-looking facial rejuvenation.
Great doctors are hard to come by, and Dr Dang is one of them I’m so surprised he called on a Saturday to check in on me make sure I am doing alright after my surgery on Friday. You can tell he really cares. He’s very compassionate and soft spoken and tells you what you need to know and answers all your questions. He’s very gentle and just all around a great doctor!!!! I hope more people tell him how much they appreciate Dr Dang. Thank you again.
Had an excellent experience with Dr Guerra. From the initial consult to my last appt., everything was top notch. The staff and doctor are very caring and invested in your surgery success. I could not have asked for a better outcome and experience.
If you’re considering a facelift and want to better understand the deep plane approach, a consultation is the best place to start. Dr. Jonathan Dang can evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and explain the surgical approach he recommends for your individual needs.
Ready to learn more?
Schedule a FREE* consultation with Dr. Jonathan Dang in Scottsdale or call (480) 382-4995 to discuss your facelift goals.
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