- About Dr. Kiran Gill: Deep Plane Facelift Expertise
- Understanding Facial Aging: The Science Behind Deep Plane Correction
- Dr. Gill’s Deep Plane Facelift Technique
- Benefits of Deep Plane Technique
- Patient Success Stories & Testimonials
- Ideal Candidates for Deep Plane Facelift
- The Deep Plane Facelift Procedure at Naples Aesthetic Institute
- Recovery and Results Timeline
- Combining Deep Plane Facelift with Additional Procedures
- Deep Plane vs. Traditional SMAS Facelift
- Safety, Risks & Complications
- Frequently Asked Questions
When considering facial rejuvenation options in Naples and Fort Myers, Florida, the deep plane facelift represents the most advanced surgical technique for comprehensive facial restoration. This sophisticated procedure addresses the underlying causes of facial aging by repositioning deeper facial structures, delivering natural-looking results that can turn back the clock by 10-15 years.
Dr. Kiran Gill at Naples Aesthetic Institute specializes in deep plane facelift surgery, combining her fellowship training in aesthetic surgery with more than a decade of experience serving patients throughout Southwest Florida. Her approach focuses on creating harmonious, natural results that enhance your inherent beauty while maintaining facial expression and character.
About Dr. Kiran Gill: Deep Plane Facelift Expertise
Board Certifications & Training:
- Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship training in aesthetic surgery of the face, breast, and body
- Medical Degree
- Rush Medical College, 2007
- Residency
- Cleveland Clinic Florida, 2011-2014
- Rush University Medical Center, 1007-2011
- Fellowship
- The Few Institute, Aesthetic and Oculoplastic Surgery, 2014
Professional Recognition:
- Top 40 under 40, 2017
- Woman of the Year – Gulfshore Life Magazine 2024
- Top 100 most influential business leaders in SWFL 2024, 2025
- Member of:
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Collier County Medical Society
- American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Hospital Affiliations:
- Physicians Regional Medical Center
Understanding Facial Aging: The Science Behind Deep Plane Correction
Facial aging occurs through multiple interconnected processes that affect different layers of facial anatomy. According to research published in the Journal of Aesthetic Surgery, facial aging involves skin elasticity loss, volume depletion in fat compartments, and gravitational descent of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer.
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The deep plane facelift technique addresses these changes by working beneath the SMAS layer, repositioning facial muscles and connective tissues as a unified structure. This approach provides more comprehensive correction compared to traditional skin-only lifts, which often create an artificial or “pulled” appearance.
Key anatomical changes addressed include:
- Descent of cheek fat pads creating nasolabial folds
- Jowl formation along the jawline
- Marionette lines extending from mouth corners
- Loss of neck definition and platysmal banding
- Hollowing of the midface and temple regions
Dr. Gill’s Deep Plane Facelift Technique
The deep plane facelift represents a significant evolution in facial rejuvenation surgery. Unlike traditional SMAS facelifts that work above the muscle layer, this technique operates in the deeper anatomical plane, allowing for more extensive tissue repositioning and longer-lasting results.
During the procedure, Dr. Gill creates carefully planned incisions that follow natural facial contours, typically beginning in the temporal hairline and extending around the ear. The key distinction lies in the surgical dissection plane, which occurs beneath the SMAS layer, preserving important facial nerves while achieving comprehensive tissue elevation.
“The deep plane technique allows us to restore facial volume and contour in a way that looks completely natural,” explains Dr. Gill. “By working in the deeper anatomical layers, we can achieve dramatic improvements while maintaining the patient’s unique facial characteristics.”
Benefits of Deep Plane Technique
The deep plane approach offers several advantages over traditional facelift methods:
- Comprehensive Correction: Addresses multiple signs of aging simultaneously
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- Natural Results: Maintains facial expression and avoids artificial appearance
- Longevity: Results typically last 10-15 years according to American Society of Plastic Surgeons data
- Reduced Tension: Less stress on skin closure reduces scarring risk
- Volume Restoration: Repositions facial fat pads for natural fullness
- Improved Neck Contour: Addresses platysmal banding and neck laxity
Ideal Candidates for Deep Plane Facelift
The best candidates for deep plane facelift surgery typically exhibit moderate to advanced signs of facial aging, including significant jowling, deep nasolabial folds, and loss of jawline definition. According to guidelines from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ideal candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and demonstrate adequate skin elasticity.
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Factors that make someone an excellent candidate include:
- Age typically between 45-70 years
- Good skin quality with some remaining elasticity
- Stable weight for at least six months
- Non-smoker or willing to quit before surgery
- Realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Commitment to proper post-operative care
Patients with minimal aging signs may benefit more from less invasive procedures, while those with severe skin damage might require additional treatments for optimal results.
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The Deep Plane Facelift Procedure at Naples Aesthetic Institute
Dr. Gill performs deep plane facelifts in her accredited surgical facility, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care. The procedure typically takes 4-6 hours under IV sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of correction needed and any additional procedures performed simultaneously.
The surgical process involves several key steps:
- Anesthesia Administration: General anesthesia ensures patient comfort throughout the procedure
- Incision Placement: Strategic incisions follow natural facial contours for minimal visible scarring
- Deep Plane Dissection: Careful separation of tissues in the sub-SMAS plane
- Tissue Repositioning: Elevation and repositioning of facial structures to restore youthful contours
- Excess Tissue Removal: Removal of redundant skin and tissue
- Layered Closure: Meticulous closure in multiple layers for optimal healing
Recovery and Results Timeline
Recovery from deep plane facelift surgery follows a predictable timeline, though individual healing varies. Most patients experience the following recovery milestones:
Week 1-2: Initial Healing
- Swelling and bruising peak around day 3-4
- Sutures removed at 7-10 days
- Most patients return to desk work within 10-14 days
- Social activities can typically resume after 2 weeks
Week 3-4: Continued Improvement
- Significant reduction in swelling and bruising
- More normal facial sensation returns
- Light exercise may be resumed
- Makeup can effectively camouflage any remaining discoloration
Month 2-3: Near-Final Results
- Most swelling resolved
- Return to all normal activities including exercise
- Scars continue to fade and mature
- Results become more apparent as tissues settle
Month 6-12: Final Results
- Complete healing and scar maturation
- Final results fully visible
- Long-term satisfaction typically very high
Combining Deep Plane Facelift with Additional Procedures
Many patients choose to combine their deep plane facelift with complementary procedures for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Popular combination treatments include:
- Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty: Addresses aging around the eyes
- Brow Lift: Corrects forehead wrinkles and brow ptosis
- Fat Grafting: Restores volume to hollow areas
- Neck Liposuction: Enhances neck contour definition
- Skin Resurfacing: Improves skin texture and tone
These combinations can be performed safely during the same surgical session, reducing overall recovery time and costs while achieving more comprehensive results.
Deep Plane vs. Traditional SMAS Facelift
Understanding the differences between deep plane and traditional SMAS facelifts helps patients make informed decisions about their surgical options:
Traditional SMAS Facelift
- Works above the SMAS layer
- Primarily addresses skin laxity
- Shorter procedure time
- Less extensive tissue repositioning
- Results typically last 7-10 years
Deep Plane Facelift
- Works beneath the SMAS layer
- Addresses deeper structural changes
- More comprehensive correction
- Natural-looking results
- Longer-lasting outcomes (10-15 years)
The choice between techniques depends on individual anatomy, aging patterns, and desired outcomes. Dr. Gill evaluates each patient carefully to recommend the most appropriate approach.
Safety, Risks & Complications
Like all surgical procedures, deep plane facelift carries certain risks that patients should understand. According to data from the National LIbrary of Medicine, complications from facelift surgery occur in approximately 2-5% of cases and may include:
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation
- Asymmetry requiring revision
- Hematoma or seroma formation
- Infection (rare with proper care)
- Scarring or poor wound healing
- Temporary or permanent nerve injury
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Dr. Gill’s extensive training and experience significantly minimize these risks, and her comprehensive pre-operative evaluation helps identify patients who may be at higher risk for complications.
Dr. Kiran Gill at Naples Aesthetic Institute serves patients throughout Southwest Florida, including Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Estero. Her fellowship training in aesthetic surgery and board certification in plastic and reconstructive surgery, combined with more than a decade of experience, make her uniquely qualified to perform deep plane facelifts with exceptional results and safety.
Yes, deep plane facelift combines beautifully with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), brow lift, fat grafting, neck liposuction, and skin resurfacing treatments. These combinations allow for comprehensive facial rejuvenation while minimizing overall recovery time and maximizing value.
Deep plane facelift results typically last 10-15 years, significantly longer than traditional facelift techniques. The longevity depends on individual factors including genetics, lifestyle, and skin care maintenance.
The deep plane technique works beneath the SMAS layer, allowing for more comprehensive tissue repositioning and natural-looking results. This approach addresses the underlying causes of facial aging rather than simply tightening skin, resulting in longer-lasting and more natural outcomes.
The ideal age range for deep plane facelift is typically 45-70 years, though individual anatomy and aging patterns are more important than chronological age. Dr. Gill evaluates each patient’s unique situation to determine the most appropriate timing and technique.
Schedule Your Deep Plane Facelift Consultation
If you’re considering deep plane facelift surgery in Naples or Fort Myers, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kiran Gill to discuss your goals and learn about your options. Her personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment plan for their unique needs and desired outcomes.
Contact Naples Aesthetic Institute today to begin your journey toward natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation with one of Southwest Florida’s most experienced plastic surgeons.
Sources
1 Swift A, Liew S, Weinkle S, Garcia JK, Silberberg MB. The Facial Aging Process From the “Inside Out”. Aesthet Surg J. 2021 Sep 14;41(10):1107-1119. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjaa339. PMID: 33325497; PMCID: PMC8438644. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8438644/. Accessed August 26, 2025.
2 Hamra ST. The deep-plane rhytidectomy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 1990 Jul;86(1):53-61; discussion 62-3. PMID: 2359803. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2359803/. Accessed August 26, 2025.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for a facelift? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/facelift/candidates. Accessed August 26, 2025.
4 Raggio BS, Patel BC. Deep Plane Facelift. [Updated 2023 Apr 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545277/. Accessed August 26, 2025.
Medical Disclaimer & Editorial Review
This content has been medically reviewed by Dr. Kiranjeet Gill, MD, FACS, Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual results may vary, and all surgical procedures carry risks. Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if deep plane facelift is appropriate for your specific situation.
The Doctors at Naples Aesthetic Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.