In modern facial plastic surgery, one philosophy gaining momentum is the preservation (or “limited delamination”) approach. This technique emphasizes maintaining the face’s natural anatomy, volume, and soft tissue integrity, while still delivering powerful, long-lasting rejuvenation.
When combined with the deep plane facelift, preservation principles can create some of the most natural, elegant, and durable results in facial rejuvenation today.
What Makes It “Preservation”?
Traditional deep plane facelifts relied on broad separation of facial layers. While this was a significant advancement compared to skin-only lifts, the preservation method takes the concept further. By maintaining more of the natural connections between the skin and SMAS layers, the SMAS can “carry” the skin and soft tissue in a stronger, more balanced way.
By respecting anatomy, fat compartments, ligamentous support, and skin quality, the preservation approach achieves consistently natural results with fewer potential complications.
During surgery, the work is performed beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system). As in a deep plane lift, the retaining ligaments are released and deeper tissues elevated as a single unit. The difference lies in preserving more of the natural attachments between the skin and SMAS, which helps prevent distortion and maintain youthful fullness.
Key Features of the Preservation Deep Plane Lift
- Deep Release, Not Skin Tension
Instead of pulling skin tightly across the surface (which risks a windswept look), the surgeon releases deep retaining ligaments so the midface and jawline elevate naturally. - Natural Tissue Planes, Natural Results
Working in the deep plane minimizes trauma to the skin, reduces visible tension, and lowers the risk of scars, pixie ears, or an overly “pulled” appearance. - Face and Neck in Harmony
Extending the lift into the neck through deep plane or subplatysmal work sharpens the jawline and creates a smooth neckline, without requiring a staged, separate necklift.
Advantages of the Preservation Approach
- Natural, Youthful Contours
Restores the face to a rejuvenated version of itself, not a different version. - Long-Lasting Results
Because it repositions deeper structures rather than just redraping skin, results remain stable over time. - No Overfilled Look
Shifting volume back to where it was lost reduces the need for fillers or fat grafting after surgery. - Safer Recovery
Preserving vascular and lymphatic structures lowers the risk of swelling, skin compromise, hematoma, or uneven healing. - High Patient Satisfaction
Patients typically look like themselves—just fresher, more rested, and naturally lifted.
Are There Disadvantages?
In skilled hands, no. While the preservation deep plane facelift is more technically demanding, the payoff is superior reliability and natural outcomes. Unlike older techniques that rely on skin pulling or fat removal for short-term change, this approach works with the anatomy, not against it.
For appropriately selected patients, it is considered the gold standard.
Final Thoughts
The preservation-style deep plane face and necklift represents an evolution in modern facial rejuvenation, one that values refinement, respect for natural anatomy, and lasting elegance. It is designed not to change who you are, but to restore the most authentic version of yourself.