What makes the deep plane different
In a deep plane facelift the surgeon works beneath the SMAS layer and releases the retaining ligaments, so that skin, fat and muscle move upwards as one unit. Because the skin is not pulled, it heals with very little tension, which is good for scars. The trade-off is that the dissection happens closer to the structures that move the face.
In experienced hands the overall risk profile is similar to other facelift techniques. That qualifier is the important part: anatomical precision, careful planning and a properly equipped hospital are what keep the deeper technique safe.
Risks specific to this operation
Your surgeon explains these in detail during the consultation in Istanbul.
- Swelling and numbness that can last a little longer than after a standard lift
- Haematoma, infection or delayed healing, as with any facelift
- Rarely, temporary weakness of a facial nerve branch, usually recovering over weeks or months
- Mild asymmetry that occasionally needs a small correction
How New City Clinic plans for safety
Swelling after a deep plane lift tends to sit in the mid-face and can take a little longer to settle than after an SMAS lift, which is why the stay in Istanbul is planned for about ten days. Nerve weakness, when it occurs, usually shows as a temporary change in the smile or in raising one eyebrow, and it typically improves over weeks or months. Knowing this in advance makes recovery less worrying, and the New City Clinic coordinator is there to pass any concerns straight to the surgeon.
Op. Dr. Fatih Kılıç is a plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon whose background in microsurgery means working routinely with fine, delicate structures. Before surgery he examines you in person, and you have blood tests and an anaesthesia review. Blood thinners and certain supplements are stopped in advance, and smokers are asked to stop well before and after the operation.
The operation takes place in a private hospital licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health, and you stay one night so that bleeding or pain can be managed straight away. Complication insurance is part of every New City Clinic surgical package, not an optional extra.
Giving yourself enough time
Plan around ten days in Istanbul. The surgeon removes the stitches between days 7 and 10 and checks your healing before you fly, and those final days are not a formality. Rushing home early takes away the chance to deal with a small problem while you are still close to the team.
At home, follow-up continues by photo and video call. Let your GP know about the operation, and keep the contact details from your written plan to hand. The official website, newcityclinic.com, lists the partner hospitals if you want to look them up before travelling.
Keep a simple diary of your swelling and any unusual sensations during the first weeks. It makes video follow-ups more useful and helps the surgeon see your progress clearly.
This portal belongs to New City Clinic: Deep plane facelift on the official New City Clinic website
