A Novel Volumizing Extended Deep-Plane Facelift: Using Composite Flap Shifts to Volumize the Midface and Jawline

Abstract

Traditional superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) facelifting surgery uses a laminar surgical dissection. This approach does not treat areas of facial volume loss, and requires additional volume supplementation with fat grafting or fillers. The novel volumizing extended deep-plane facelift uses a composite approach to the facelift flap. By incorporating a platysma myotomy in the extended deep-plane flap, a novel composite transposition flap can be created that revolumizes the posterior jawline, recreating a defined convex jawline of youth. Special attention is paid to the deep anatomy of the face, and the need for release of the facial ligaments.

Keywords: Deep-plane facelift; Facial fat compartments; Malar fat pad; Rhytidectomy; SMAS facelift.