The Evolution of the Deep Plane Facelift: Custom Vector Lifting for Natural Rejuvenation

For more than three decades, facelift surgery has undergone remarkable refinements, evolving from skin-only lifts to more anatomically precise techniques that restore a youthful contour and balance. Over my 36 years in practice, I have witnessed and contributed to this evolution. My approach builds upon the foundational deep plane facelift but adds a customized, directional focus—the Vertical Vector Lift (VVL) and Horizontal Vector Lift (HVL)—designed to rejuvenate each patient according to their unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Understanding the Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift repositions not only the skin but also the deeper SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the underlying fat pads. Unlike older techniques that simply tighten or stretch, the deep plane approach releases and repositions these structures, restoring harmony and support to the midface, jawline, and neck. This creates a longer-lasting, more natural outcome—one that moves and ages gracefully.

Introducing the Vertical and Horizontal Vector Lift Concepts

Over the years, I’ve developed refinements that go beyond the standard deep plane technique. Each face tells a different story—and each requires a slightly different direction of lift to achieve the most natural and balanced restoration.

• Vertical Vector Lift (VVL): This approach focuses on elevating tissues in an upward, vertical direction—ideal for patients with midface descent, flattened cheeks, and deep nasolabial folds. By restoring vertical lift, we recreate youthful cheek projection and a smooth transition from lower eyelid to cheek, without an “over-pulled” look.
• Horizontal Vector Lift (HVL): The horizontal lift emphasizes a posterior-lateral direction of elevation—more appropriate for patients with jowling, laxity along the jawline, and neck banding. This vector sharpens the jawline and redefines the neck while preserving natural facial proportions.

Often, these vectors are combined or blended to achieve a truly personalized result. The artistry lies in selecting the appropriate direction, depth, and degree of release—customizing the lift to each patient’s tissue tone, bone structure, and aesthetic priorities.

Volumization: The Third Dimension of Rejuvenation

A critical addition to the modern facelift is volumetric restoration. Aging is not just about sagging—it’s also about deflation. By carefully restoring volume with fat grafting or structural fillers, I complement the vector lift to rejuvenate all planes of the face. This three-dimensional strategy enhances contours in the cheeks, temples, and perioral region for a soft, youthful glow that surgery alone cannot achieve.

A 36-Year Evolution in Precision and Personalization

My evolution of the deep plane facelift represents decades of study, refinement, and experience with thousands of patients. From early SMAS plication methods in the late 1980s to advanced deep plane and hybrid techniques today, the goal has always remained the same: natural rejuvenation that reflects each patient’s individuality.

Every facelift I perform begins with an assessment of vector balance—vertical versus horizontal—and ends with a harmonious integration of repositioning, tightening, and volumization. The result is not a “different” face, but a refined, refreshed version of the person you already are.

The Takeaway: A Facelift Designed for You

No two faces age the same way, so no two facelifts should be identical. By combining deep plane precision, custom vector direction, and volumetric artistry, I can achieve results that look beautifully natural—never tight, never artificial—and that stand the test of time.

At the Aesthetic Associates Centre, our philosophy is simple: blend science, experience, and artistry to help every patient look as youthful and vibrant as they feel. Schedule a consultation to find out if a personalized facelift is right for you.