Deep Plane Facelift in Fort Worth: Everything You Need to Know
Questions? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rihani today!
Schedule a ConsultationWhile aging is natural, it often first appears on our faces: fine lines, wrinkles, jowls (sagging skin), and loss of volume.
For some, these signs of aging show up earlier or more noticeably than expected, creating a disconnect between how people look and how they feel—and that can chip away at one’s confidence.
Nonsurgical options, like dermal fillers, lasers, and BOTOX®, can help, but here’s the catch: the results are temporary.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve started considering a more lasting solution—a facelift.
But with so many types of facelifts—mini, traditional, skin-only—how do you know which one is right for you?
How do you know it will help fulfill your aesthetic goals? And more importantly, how do you choose the right plastic surgeon in Fort Worth to perform it?
If you’re dealing with noticeable sagging in your lower face or neck, jowling, a double chin, or neck wattle (“turkey neck”), a deep plane facelift might be exactly what you need.
That’s where Dr. Jordan Rihani comes in. He’s a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a deep understanding of facial anatomy and aging.
His expertise in deep plane facelifts, combined with his patient-first, safety-focused approach, has helped countless patients in Fort Worth achieve naturally refreshed, youthful results—never overdone, never obvious.
Still weighing your options? That’s completely normal.
Surgery is a big step, and there’s a lot to consider—from recovery time and costs to whether you’re even a good candidate for the procedure.
At the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute, we’re here to help patients make informed decisions. This guide is just the beginning.
Keep reading to learn more about deep plane facelifts in Fort Worth, Texas—from how the procedure works to what you can expect when you meet with Dr. Rihani.
Have questions? Let’s talk. You can schedule a consultation—either virtual or in-person—by calling (817) 529-3232 or completing our Contact form.
You’re also welcome to visit us in person at either of our convenient locations:
Fort Worth: 800 8th Ave, #400, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Southlake: 521 W. Southlake Blvd, #175, Southlake, TX 76092
Your path to long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation starts here.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
Contrary to popular belief, the word “facelift,” also known as a rhytidectomy, doesn’t refer to a single procedure but to any surgical technique that addresses signs of aging on the face and neck.
From traditional and mini facelifts to full and short-scar rhytidectomies, many procedures fit this definition. However, not all facelifts are created equal, making it challenging to choose the right one.
But if you’re looking for a facial rejuvenation option that can give you long-lasting, natural-looking results, a deep plane facelift may be the most effective choice.
Unlike other facelift procedures, which primarily target the skin, a deep plane facelift technique improves facial aging by repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face.
That includes the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), the mesh-like layer of muscles, ligaments, and fibers that plays a significant role in how our faces look as we age.
This more comprehensive facelift approach doesn’t just pull your skin tighter—it restores your face’s natural contours, addressing signs of aging, including but not limited to:
- Jowls (sagging cheek and jawline skin)
- Nasolabial folds (creases around the nose and mouth)
- Marionette lines (wrinkles at the corners of the mouth)
If you’re in Fort Worth, Texas, you don’t have to look very long for a qualified facelift surgeon to perform a deep plane facelift. There’s Dr. Jordan Rihani.
He’s met the rigorous standards of two separate medical boards: one in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and another in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
This dual certification speaks volumes about his in-depth knowledge and skills, which he honed through training with leading figures in the field at renowned institutions, such as:
- UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas
- McCollough Plastic Surgery Institute in Alabama
With Dr. Rihani’s extensive and high-level training, double board certification, and deep plane facelift specialization, you can be confident that you’ll achieve your facial rejuvenation goals.
How Does a Deep Plane Facelift Work?
A deep plane facelift works beneath the surface, repositioning the facial structures that have descended over time to give you a more youthful appearance.
But what does that actually mean?
Here’s how the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute’s and Dr. Rihani’s specialized and refined deep plane facelift generally works:
- Precision incisions: Dr. Jordan Rihani makes carefully placed incisions around the hairline and behind the ears, ensuring they’re hidden within the face’s natural creases.
- Lifting the SMAS layer: Dr. Rihani will then release and reposition the SMAS layer, which includes the facial muscles and fat pads, back to its original location.
- Natural redraping of skin: Once the deeper tissues are secured, Dr. Rihani will gently smooth over the new contours. He uses a lift-up approach, ensuring natural results and avoiding a “stretched” look.
However, everyone’s face is different. That’s why Dr. Rihani takes the time to thoroughly evaluate each patient, ensuring the results complement their unique bone structure.
So, if you’re concerned about getting natural-looking results, you must choose a qualified surgeon. Dr. Rihani’s expertise in facial anatomy and specialized deep plane techniques ensures you get a face that’s authentically you.
Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift
Some surgical procedures are better for achieving specific facelift results. If you’re looking for an option to achieve natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation, consider a deep plane facelift.
So why, out of all the many other types of facelifts, is a deep plane facelift the method we recommend? To answer that question, here are some of its benefits:
- Natural-looking results: Unlike traditional facelift procedures, which often only stretch the skin, a deep plane facelift repositions the underlying facial layers and removes excess skin to achieve an outcome that looks natural.
This comprehensive correction of signs of aging restores volume to areas of the face that have lost it, smooths out wrinkles, and results in a more natural yet dramatic lift.
- Smaller incisions: Despite involving more parts of the face—muscles, fat pads, and connective tissues—a deep plane facelift requires smaller incisions compared to more traditional rhytidectomies.
This results in a much quicker recovery, with most patients being able to resume work two weeks after the procedure. In contrast, traditional facelifts require a recovery period of around three weeks.
Still, recovery times may vary depending on the individual’s healing and whether other procedures were done.
- Longer-lasting effects: Because the procedure works on deep structural layers, the results don’t fade as quickly as with other types of lift surgeries.
Although no facelift stops aging entirely, patients who undergo the deep plane facelift can expect to enjoy their rejuvenated appearance for 10 to 15 years, possibly even longer, with proper skin care.
Why Choose a Deep Plane Facelift Over Other Techniques?
Don’t get us wrong. Other types of rhytidectomies, aside from the deep plane facelift, are also worth considering if you’re looking to address facial aging through cosmetic surgery.
However, there are many reasons deep plane facelifts are the go-to choice for many in Fort Worth.
To help you weigh your options, here’s how the deep plane method compares to other facelift techniques:
- vs. SMAS plication: This facelifting technique also involves the SMAS layer. However, instead of releasing the deeper ligaments, this procedure plicates (folds) and sutures them to produce the lift.
A deep plane facelift goes further, releasing the SMAS attachments. This approach allows for more mobility and, by extension, better repositioning of the face’s structural layers.
- vs. mini facelift: This type of facelift is minimally invasive, quick to perform, and effective for addressing early signs of aging in the lower face and neck—with “early” being the operative word.
Mini facelifts are less ideal for more moderate to significant sagging. In contrast, a deep plane facelift is more comprehensive, allowing you to fix multiple problem areas simultaneously.
- vs. liquid facelift: This procedure uses injectable dermal fillers to restore lost facial volume—no surgery. Unfortunately, it’s not as effective for:
- Jowls
- Neck wattle
- Nasolabial folds
- Droopy midface tissue
- Double chin
The effects of liquid facelifts also don’t last long, typically around 9 to 12 months. While a deep plane facelift involves surgery, it offers a long-term solution for various signs of aging on the face.
In short, deep plane facelifts stand above other types of rhytidectomies, especially in terms of results. That said, not all facial plastic surgeons offer or are trained in this advanced technique.
Here’s where Dr. Rihani comes in.
With his double board certification and specialized fellowship in facial plastic surgery, you can be confident he understands:
- How to customize the lift for your unique bone structure
- Where to release the ligaments to get maximal and natural repositioning and movement
- How to avoid over-lifting or unnatural tension
His patient-centered approach ensures you’re involved in planning your results—because he believes the best facelift is the one that looks like you, just younger and refreshed.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift?
If you’re convinced that a deep plane facelift is the solution you seek, you’re likely eager to book an initial consultation with your nearest plastic surgeon to get things rolling.
However, you might want to slow down. While some people are good candidates for this procedure and will significantly benefit from it, some aren’t.
That begs the question, “Am I an ideal candidate for a deep plane facelift?” While every patient is unique, a good candidate generally:
- Has moderate to significant sagging: The deep plane technique is designed to address prominent signs of aging in the lower face and neck, like jowls, double chin, and neck wattle.
If you only have early signs of facial aging, a less invasive procedure, such as a mini facelift, may be a better option since it is quicker to perform and requires a shorter recovery.
- Has good facial skin elasticity: Although Dr. Rihani’s specialized deep plane facelift avoids putting unnecessary tension on the skin, the procedure still involves repositioning it.
That can pose a problem if you have scar tissue, poorer skin quality, and thinner muscle layers, which can happen if you’ve undergone a facelift procedure in the past.
- Has good health: We prioritize safety. We’ll review your health history to ensure you’re a good and, most importantly, safe candidate for a deep plane facelift.
- Wants natural results: If you want it bad enough, you can find a plastic surgeon who will perform a deep plane facelift regardless of whether the results match your expectations.
Dr. Rihani and the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute team specialize in delivering natural results. You’re an ideal candidate if we can give you that through a deep plane facelift.
“I could not be more pleased with the experience and results of Dr. Rihani’s work.
He was so easy to talk to and had great recommendations based off the concerns I had in our initial consultation.
He took the time to follow up after the procedure to make sure I was doing okay and happy with my results, which I was 100%.
Not only do I trust him with any procedure moving forward, I would absolutely recommend him.”
Sarah M.
If you want to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Schedule a free consultation by calling (817) 529-3232 or completing our Contact form. You can also visit our Fort Worth office at 800 8th Ave, #400, Fort Worth, TX 76104.
What Age Is Best for a Deep Plane Facelift?
If you’re considering getting a deep plane facelift, various questions are probably in your mind. One of them likely is, “Am I old enough to undergo the procedure?”
If you search online for the “right” age for a facelift, you’ll get a lot of conflicting information—some say you should get one in your early 50s, while others insist you wait until 60.
But here’s the truth: there’s no universal number. Dr. Rihani has performed surgery on patients in their 30s and those in their 60s. The best age for a deep plane facelift depends on various factors, such as:
- Your aging process: Everyone’s faces age differently. Some people age gracefully, so they don’t need anything done, even in their 60s. Others, on the other hand, benefit from cosmetic intervention much earlier.
If you have loose skin, excess fat under your chin, or sagging neck and lower face tissues, it may be time to consider a deep plane facelift.
- Your schedule: A deep plane facelift typically requires a recovery period of two to three weeks. Depending on your age, your schedule may not allow you to undergo an operation.
If you’re young and your career takes precedence, taking the necessary time off may not be an option. But if you’re in your twilight years, enjoying retirement, it’s a different story.
- Your desired outcome: While a deep plane facelift can address various signs of aging, from saggy neck skin to lost facial volume, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
If you’re looking for a temporary fix, a liquid facelift may be a worthwhile option. However, if you want a procedure that will refresh your appearance for 10 to 15 years, consider a deep plane facelift.
Ultimately, it’s not whether you’re at the “right” age for a deep plane facelift but whether you’re ready for one.
Undergoing a procedure is a deeply personal decision. After all, your face is on the line.
That’s why Dr. Rihani and the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute take candidate selection seriously. We say no if we don’t believe a deep plane facelift is the most suitable solution.
We’d rather lose “potential business” than perform a procedure that won’t deliver the best possible results.
Check our Testimonials page to read more success stories from actual deep plane facelift patients.
Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift in Fort Worth
Finding a surgeon you can trust, understanding the procedure itself, and considering recovery are all key pieces of the deep plane facelift puzzle—it’s a journey with many facets.
And, of course, a really practical part of that journey involves the question, “How much will a deep plane facelift in Fort Worth cost me?” That’s where things get complex, as every face requires unique work.
Let’s break it down.
How Much Does a Deep Plane Lower Facelift Cost?
As of April 2025, the average cost of a facelift in major US metros, such as Dallas and Fort Worth, is around $13,954. However, that price tag doesn’t include the additional cost of:
- General anesthesia
- Operating room fees
- Follow-up appointments
Naturally, the cost will also reflect the skill and experience level of your chosen surgeon.
For instance, someone with advanced credentials like Dr. Rihani brings a depth of knowledge and an artistic eye to the table.
The supplementary facial rejuvenation procedures you get, along with the deep plane facelift, also affect the final bill.
Dr. Rihani’s deep plane facelift surgery includes correcting the upper cheek and outer brow.
You can use an online cost calculator to get an approximate estimate of your potential costs.
That said, the all-inclusive cost of a deep plane facelift in Fort Worth typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000.
It’s a significant figure that undoubtedly impacts the procedure’s accessibility.
Fortunately, we strive to make deep plane facelifts and other cosmetic procedures as accessible as possible.
We offer installment options via CareCredit to make costs manageable. We also have an in-house insurance coordinator who will happily help you explore financing options and navigate pre-operative logistics.
Schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about our deep plane facelift pricing. You can do so by calling (817) 529-3232 or filling out our Contact form.
Finding an Experienced Surgeon in Fort Worth
If you’re looking to undergo a deep plane facelift in Fort Worth, you wouldn’t have to look very long for a qualified plastic surgeon.
However, choosing a surgeon isn’t just about going for one with many experiences—it’s about trust.
After all, it’s your face we’re talking about.
You want to ensure you’re in the hands of someone who can perform the procedure safely while considering your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
So, to help you find that surgeon, here’s what you should look for:
- Board certification: Your surgeon should have relevant certifications, as these recognitions signify that they have undergone rigorous training. Dr. Jordan Rihani has two:
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
- Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Specialized experience: Not all plastic surgeons routinely perform deep plane facelifts. An experienced surgeon like Dr. Rihani typically performs the procedure around 75 to 120 times yearly.
- Local reputation: A trustworthy facelift surgeon in Fort Worth should be known locally. Dr. Rihani has been recognized as a Top Doctor every year since opening his practice in Fort Worth in 2015.
- Hospital affiliations: Privileges at respected medical centers signal that peers trust the surgeon’s expertise. Dr. Rihani offers his know-how at UT Southwestern Medical Center as a clinical assistant professor.
- Consultation style: A surgeon worth considering should thoroughly analyze your facial structure, explain why they recommend certain approaches, and never pressure you into getting unnecessary procedures.
Dr. Jordan Rihani takes a patient-centered approach. He listens carefully to understand your specific concerns, aesthetic goals, and expectations for the procedure.
His emphasis on a collaborative relationship ensures you feel empowered to make informed decisions without feeling rushed toward treatments you’re unsure about.
“Had a face and neck lift performed by Dr. Rihani. I had an amazing experience from start to finish.
I never felt pressured into any decisions and was kept well-informed throughout the whole process.
The supporting staff were friendly and treated me well. I am more than pleased with my results and would definitely recommend Dr. Rihani and his staff.”
Donna R.
Who Are the Top Surgeons for Deep Plane Facelifts in Fort Worth?
There are many notable surgeons in Fort Worth offering deep plane facelifts, such as:
- Dr. Robert G. Anderson of Fort Worth Plastic Surgery
- Dr. Jon Kurkjian of Kurkjian Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics
- Dr. Jesse E. Smith of Facelift Fort Worth and Colleyville
But, here’s where Dr. Jordan Rihani stands out:
- Elite training: Dr. Rihani graduated from New York University (NYU) School of Medicine, one of the nation’s top programs, and completed residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center.
- Proven expertise: Dr. Rihani is regularly invited to teach other surgeons his specialized technique and has published extensively on facial aging and surgical outcomes.
- Patient-first approach: Dr. Rihani doesn’t offer cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, he customizes each facelift to preserve the patient’s natural expressions.
Remember, who you choose to trust matters, especially for delicate facial work.
So, trust your gut. If a surgeon doesn’t feel like they fit the bill, keep looking—you won’t run out of options in Fort Worth.
What to Expect During Recovery
One of the barriers to a deep plane facelift is the recovery. Not everyone can take two to three weeks off from their schedule. But here’s the good news: it’s more manageable than you might think.
Here’s how your journey back to feeling—and looking—amazing might unfold:
- Immediate post-op (days one to three): You’ll leave our Fort Worth surgical center wearing a comfortable facial wrap, which will be removed the following day of your operation.
Swelling and bruising will occur and peak around day three. But don’t worry. That’s completely normal. You can expect these postoperative side effects to diminish over time.
- The first two weeks: By day 7 to 10, you’ll notice a dramatic improvement in swelling, with most patients able to enjoy brief outings by the tenth day—some can even get back to work.
- Weeks three to six: At this point, 80% of the swelling will have diminished, with the bruising following suit. You can now begin light cardio and lower-body workouts.
- Long-term healing: The results of your deep plane facelift should become apparent around two months after the surgery, with jawline improvements visible as early as two weeks.
What Is Recovery Like After Facelift Surgery?
Your recovery experience will be unique. However, here’s what most patients can expect after their deep plane facelift surgery:
- Pain management: Although our deep plane facelift will involve local or general anesthesia, you can expect mild discomfort after the anesthesia wears off.
Fortunately, most patients report that the pain is tolerable, with some needing only TYLENOL® to manage it. That said, we’ll prescribe pain medication that we advise you to take for the first few days.
- Activity guidelines: You must get plenty of rest after your deep plane facelift to help your body heal. We recommend avoiding strenuous activities, such as driving, for at least two weeks.
However, that doesn’t mean you should skip all physical activity altogether. Although it may sound counterintuitive, you also need to engage in light activities.
After all, lying in bed all day limits blood flow, increasing the risk of post-op complications such as blood clots, infection, and respiratory issues like pneumonia.
- Scarring: Dr. Rihani makes his incision around the hairline and behind the ears, ensuring they’re unnoticeable post-operation unless you’re explicitly looking for them.
However, these incisions will be slightly pink as you’re healing. Fortunately, they can be hidden with makeup and will typically dissipate in the next few months.
Remember, the first week is the hardest, especially with all the swelling and bruising. But by week two, you’ll start seeing exciting changes that make every day of recovery worthwhile.
You’re not alone on your journey. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule necessary follow-up appointments to help ensure a smooth healing process.
Potential Downsides and Risks
Let’s be honest—no surgical procedure comes without some risks.
While deep plane facelifts are safe when performed by a skilled surgeon like Dr. Rihani, sometimes, there are still potential complications.
The risk of serious issues is low. However, temporary side effects like the following are possible:
- Swelling and bruising
- Numbness or tightness
- Bleeding and scarring
Rare but more serious risks include:
- Nerve damage that causes facial weakness
- Hematoma or blood pooling under the skin
- Infections like pneumonia
Fortunately, Dr. Rihani’s experience as a clinical assistant professor ensures he knows how to avoid these issues before they start.
Complication prevention will be reflected in your personalized aftercare plan.
How to Minimize the Downsides of a Deep Plane Facelift
Like any surgical procedure, deep plane facelifts have potential downsides. For this reason, Dr. Rihani takes extra safety precautions to minimize risks, including:
- Requiring blood work: Before performing any procedure, Dr. Rihani will ask you to get a blood count. This ensures your body is fit to undergo a deep plane facelift.
- Strict sterilization: Deep plane facelifts at the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute are performed in a germ-free operating room using sterile equipment. This reduces the chances of infection.
- Asking you to stop certain medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications can increase the risk of bleeding and slow down the healing process. We’ll ask you to stop taking them.
Concerns about surgical risks are natural. But with Dr. Rihani’s deep plane facelift expertise, you can feel confident that every step he takes prioritizes your safety and achieves the best possible results.
Additional Procedures to Enhance Results
Facelifts offer many advantages that make them an excellent choice for facial rejuvenation. One of these advantages is that you can pair them with other procedures to achieve more dramatic improvements.
Many of our Fort Worth patients do. Here are the most popular options:
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty): This procedure addresses hooded eyelids or under-eye bags that a facelift generally doesn’t. The result? A brighter, more alert gaze.
- Brow lift: This cosmetic option repositions your forehead and, as its name suggests, raises the brow to reduce fine lines, making you look more refreshed and youthful.
- Fat grafting: This procedure helps restore lost facial volume by transferring fat from your own body. That said, you can accomplish the same goal through injectable fillers.
What Is a Neck Lift?
Another procedure often combined with a deep plane facelift is a neck lift. It supplements the former by further correcting neck sagging, double chin, neck wattle, and platysmal bands (vertical neck lines).
Pairing these procedures allows you to achieve seamless, natural-looking results in your lower face and neck after a single operation. The question is, “Should you?”
Schedule a consultation if you want to determine whether a neck lift and other procedures would enhance your facelift results—no pressure, just expert advice.
Call us at (817) 529-3232 or complete our Contact form. You can also visit the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute’s Fort Worth office at 800 8th Ave, #400, Fort Worth, TX 76104.
Consult Dr. Rihani to determine which is best for you.
Schedule a ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
You’ll enjoy a youthful, natural look for 10 to 15 years after a deep plane facelift before needing a touch-up. But even after that, you’ll still look better than if you’d never had the procedure.
Various factors can impact the results’ duration, including the following:
- Your genetics: A deep plane facelift doesn’t stop facial aging. That means the results might not last as long if your face is more prone to creases and sagging.
- Lifestyle: Sun exposure, smoking, and significant weight fluctuations can accelerate facial aging. Wearing sunscreen and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help maintain your results.
- Surgeon’s skill: Over-tightening the skin can lead to quicker “relaxation” and, by extension, sagging. Dr. Jordan Rihani avoids this problem by using a “lift-up” technique instead of the traditional “pull-back.”
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re looking for a surgeon in Fort Worth, Texas, who prioritizes his patients and delivers natural-looking results that enhance your unique facial features, Dr. Jordan Rihani is your man.
Contact the Facial Plastic Surgery Institute today to schedule your consultation.
