Introduction
Facial aging shows up as sagging cheeks, jowls, laxity of the neck, or deep creases around your mouth. While many treatments can help temporarily, nothing compares to our transformative deep plane facelift.
At The Block-Wheeler Clinic in San Francisco, CA, this advanced surgical technique goes beyond the surface to reposition the underlying facial structure, resulting in a naturally refreshed, youthful appearance.
A deep plane facelift is one of the most comprehensive and technically refined facial rejuvenation procedures available today. Instead of tightening the skin alone, it addresses the deeper layers of the face, specifically the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and underlying fat pads. By releasing and repositioning those, our deep-plane technique helps restore the natural contours of the face without the tight, overdone look.
Ideal candidates for our deep plane facelift are healthy adults who are beginning to notice sagging in the lower face, drooping cheeks, or loose skin around the jawline and neck. Most of Dr. Block-Wheeler’s patients considering this surgery are in their 40s to 70s, though age alone is not the deciding factor.
You may be a good candidate if you:
During your consultation at The Block-Wheeler Clinic, a thorough evaluation will be performed to determine whether a deep-plane facelift is right for your anatomy, goals, and skin condition.
Dr. Block-Wheeler’s patients choose our deep-planed facelift for its ability to rejuvenate the face, resulting in a refreshed, authentic look. Some of the top benefits our clients see include:
The first step to getting a deep plane facelift with us is scheduling a consultation at The Block-Wheeler Clinic in San Francisco, CA. During this appointment, Dr. Block-Wheeler will review your relevant medical history, examine your facial structure, and discuss your aesthetic concerns in detail.
Using advanced imaging and assessment, he will design a surgical plan customized to your features and desired level of correction.
On the day of surgery, you’ll arrive at an accredited surgical center and undergo general anesthesia. The procedure begins with discreet incisions placed along the hairline, in front of and behind the ears. After minimal skin incision for access, Dr. Block-Wheeler performs deep dissection to release key retaining ligaments and reposition the facial fat, muscle, and connective tissue as a unified layer.
Once the underlying tissues are repositioned and secured, the skin is redraped and trimmed as needed, then closed in precise layers with sutures that reduce tension. Because the skin is not bearing the lifting forces, closure is smoother and more natural. The surgery may last 5-6 hours, depending on the extent of the work and any combined procedures (such as eyelid surgery or fat grafting).
When the procedure is complete, a light dressing is applied, and you’ll be observed during early recovery before being discharged. You will have a post-operative appointment in our office the next day to remove bandages.
Recovery from a deep-plane facelift varies for each patient, but we suggest clients take about 2 weeks off from work and major social activities. There will also be some swelling and bruising, which will gradually improve over the first 10 to 14 days. Make sure to keep your head elevated during this time and use compresses to help reduce swelling.
The cost of a deep plane facelift in San Francisco will depend on the complexity of the surgery, anesthesia fees, and whether any combined procedures are included.
The best way to determine your specific cost is to schedule a consultation at The Block-Wheeler Clinic, where a detailed quote will be provided following your evaluation. To schedule your consultation, you can use the online scheduling portal or call our office.
Our Ethos
In San Francisco and Marin, CA, Dr. Nikolas Block-Wheeler specializes solely in facial and head & neck procedures, drawing on his training in ENT and facial plastic surgery. With his dual understanding of cosmetic and reconstructive anatomy, he is able to perform delicate, deep dissections with precision for his clients.
From your first visit to your final check, you’ll have a clear roadmap and a surgeon who listens to your goals.
If you are ready to restore youthful definition to your face and neck, schedule your consultation at The Block-Wheeler Clinic in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Block-Wheeler and his team will help you understand your options and create a plan designed to help you look and feel your best.
Schedule your appointment through the online scheduling portal or call our office to begin your journey toward a deep plane facelift.