Your Harley Street Deep Plane Facelift
- Dr. De Silva's VFR-7 Technique: Look 10 Years Younger
- 1000+ Outstanding 5* Reviews
- CQC Regulated Harley Street Surgical Facility
What Is A Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift targets the deeper layers of the face rather than merely the skin. Traditional facelifts that only tighten the skin often result in overly taut, less natural outcomes that are short-lived, especially in individuals with thinner skin. In contrast, deep-plane facelifts lift both the skin and its underlying support structures, producing longer-lasting, natural, and refined results.
The deep plane facelift is the most technically advanced form of facelift, and fewer than 5% of plastic surgeons are qualified to perform it. Dr De Silva is proud to be among them. Drawing on extensive facial anatomy and surgery expertise, he has developed a signature deep plane facelift that combines the principles of the deep plane technique, the Golden Ratio, and specialised methods to minimise discomfort. This is known as the Vertical Face Restore 7 technique, or VFR-7.
This approach lifts both the cheeks and the facial muscles, removing the need for additional fillers. The result is a sharper, youthful look that preserves natural facial contours. Dr De Silva’s signature VFR-7 deep plane facelift is ideal for patients aged 40 to 60, effectively addressing fine lines, volume loss, sagging skin, and jowls.
What Are The Different Layers Of The Face?
Understanding the layers of the face is essential for appreciating how different types of facelift surgery are designed to target specific structures for aesthetic enhancement. Here’s a breakdown of each major layer:
Skin and Superficial Fat Layer
The skin itself and a superficial layer of subcutaneous fat directly beneath it provide the face’s visible surface and are crucial for texture, hydration, and youthful fullness. Over time, skin can lose elasticity, and superficial fat can shift or diminish, contributing to sagging and wrinkles.
SMAS Layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)
Located beneath the superficial fat layer, the SMAS is a unique fibromuscular layer that covers and supports the face. This layer combines fibrous and muscular tissue, and its integrity is critical for maintaining facial structure. The SMAS layer is a primary focus in facelift surgeries, as repositioning or tightening it can significantly lift the face and restore youthful contours. Procedures that work on the SMAS are more invasive but yield substantial, long-lasting results.
Deep Facial Plane
The deepest plane, located beneath the SMAS, this layer includes deeper facial ligaments and muscles. It provides foundational support for the face and acts as an anchor for the overlying layers. This plane is crucial in advanced facelift techniques, where adjustments can offer more dramatic lifting and structural changes without overly tightening the skin or superficial tissues.
Deep Plane Facelift Results After 9 Days
Below are photos of Dr Julian De Silva’s patient, 9 days after Vertical Face Restore-7 treatment. The first patient (left) had been planning to travel to the US for similar treatment.
What Does The VFR-7 Deep Plane Facelift Address
If you’re experiencing mild signs of ageing, a mini facelift or a technique focused on tightening skin may be sufficient. However, for more pronounced facial ageing—typically from the age of 40 to 60—a deep plane facelift may be ideal. This advanced approach addresses significant issues like sagging skin, loss of volume due to gravity, and jowls, provided you are in good health.
Read Our Deep Plane Facelift Harley Street Patient Testimonials
I would like to share my experience of my face and neck lift with Dr De Silva. First and foremost I will tell you truthfully, that with all I now know for my experience, I would go through it all again tomorrow if I had too. It was so different from what you hear, and all the botched jobs you see. I picked Dr De Silva after much research, and the fact that he only specialises on the face, I made my appointment. From my first consultation till my 1yr check up, I can only but give him and his team 100% Dr De Silva has an extremely calming way with him. He puts you at your ease and explains EVERYTHING in minuet detail. He leaves nothing out, everything he said happened in that way. From having pre op’s till the day of surgery nurses Ellie and Josie were fantastic, so helpful and friendly. I was told by Dr De Silva that It would not be painful, just a bit uncomfortable, that was true. I had no pain at all at anytime from start till now, Swollen and bruised yes, the bruising had all gone in 2 weeks. Swelling took a little longer. I was also told it would be quite numb for some time. It was, but it didn’t bother me, and now I have very little numbness left. It can take up to 9 months I think. I didn’t want to look different, I didn’t want to change anything, all I wanted was to look rested and fresher, a better version of myself. I am soooo happy with my lovely tight neck and no more loose skin and hanging jowls. It has made the biggest difference to my confidence. No one has asked have I had work done, they just say “ you are looking great”. If you are thinking of a face lift or any facial work done, I can 100% guarantee you will not find a better surgeon… anywhere. My extreme gratitude to Dr De Silva, Dr Andre (anaesthetist). Nurse’s Ellie & Josie and to Sarah who sorted all the paperwork etc.
Why Choose Dr. De Silva for a Deep Plane Facelift in London?
What is VFR 7? It is a comprehensive solution to facial ageing known as The Vertical Face Restore 7-Key steps. This is an artistic procedure that I have carefully created, perfected, and refined as a highly unique surgical procedure, thanks to its ability to address the entire face, and not just a portion of it. It has been developed over 10 years and thousands of hours of work and refinement.” - Dr De Silva.
A renowned expert in facial aesthetics, Dr. De Silva combines advanced surgical skills with an eye for natural beauty. His signature procedures, including the Vertical Deep Plane Facelift and Vertical Blepharoplasty, are designed to achieve subtle, long-lasting rejuvenation. Dr. De Silva’s commitment to patient safety and comfort has led him to adopt Twilight Sedation, a technique that reduces recovery time and enhances patient experience. He is also a passionate researcher of the golden ratio in facial aesthetics and a frequent instructor, sharing his expertise in facelift surgery with surgeons globally. With over 30% of his surgeries dedicated to revisions, Dr. De Silva is widely trusted for both primary and corrective facial procedures.
In the Press
The Key Steps of the VFR-7 Deep Plane Facelift in London
De Silva's Vertical Face Restore 7 deep plane facelift is a “turnkey” solution to facial ageing, customised to each individual, these are the 7 Key Steps:
Loss of V-shaped jaw line, square jowls and skin laxity can all be treated with a vertical deep-plane facelift which restores your features without the sideways pull of traditional SMAS facelift or removal of natural volume.
Square-shaped fullness to jaw line and neck, sometimes accompanied by a small chin and lower cheek fullness, can benefit from buccal fat reshaping & chin implant.
The appearance of tired eyes can be improved with preservation blepharoplasty and a temporal brow lift to restore youthful eye appearance.
Deep lines in the mid-face and a lengthened upper lip area can be addressed with a combination of fat transfer and surgical lifts. Fat transfer restores lost volume, while a deep plane facelift provides comprehensive vertical lifting. For the elongated upper lip, a lip lift can be performed to shorten and rejuvenate the area for a more youthful appearance.
Skin ageing, including fine lines and enlarged pores, can be treated with the gold-standard Lumenis laser. This laser resurfaces and refines the skin, effectively reducing fine lines and minimising pore size for a smoother, more polished appearance.
Avoid risks and side effects of general anaesthesia with our customised Sedation Anaesthesia that has been developed over ten years. This is often combined with th use of regenerative medicine (PRP) and oxygen therapy to enhance recovery.
Facial ageing is an ongoing phenomenon, after comprehensive rejuvenation, yearly maintenance will ensure longer-lasting results. This involves a triple approach addressing volume replacement with fillers, skin rejuvenation (laser, PRP) and skin tightening (Radiofrequency).
Dr De Silva’s Signature Deep Plane Facelift in London
Dr De Silva’s VFR-7 deep plane facelift offers a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation, restoring youthful contours over a carefully managed timeline. From the initial consultation, where your goals and unique facial structure are assessed, to the surgery itself—focused on deep tissue repositioning for a natural lift—each stage is designed for seamless recovery and optimal results.
(Procedure) consultation
The surgical process begins with a one-to-one consultation with Dr De Silva. During this honest and open discussion, you will be asked about your medical history, aesthetic goals and current facial concerns. Photos may be taken and Dr De Silva will create a personalised treatment plan adapted to your needs.
Pre-surgery preparation
To prepare for a deep plane facelift with Dr. De Silva, follow all preoperative instructions carefully, including avoiding certain medications, supplements, and alcohol, and stopping smoking at least two weeks before surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you home and, if possible, stay with you for the first 24 hours. Lastly, gather all necessary recovery items in advance, such as cold compresses, bandages, sleep-elevating pillows, and any prescribed pain relief.
Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, arrive without makeup or skincare products and wear comfortable clothing. This procedure aims to reduce signs of ageing, leading to a more youthful and refreshed look. During this procedure, excess skin is removed from the face and neck areas, fat repositioned, and the skin tightened to create a smoother, firmer and youthful contour of the face. Sometimes, the procedure may also involve other techniques, such as brow lift or blepharoplasty. The technique used during vertical face restoration will vary between patients based on their needs. Generally speaking, this type of surgery involves tightening the skin tissue around the neck and jawline while lifting any areas that have begun to sag due to ageing or other factors.
The surgery involves making incisions in the hairline near the temples and then lifting and tightening the skin on the face. It can also involve removing excess fat and skin.
It can take several hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. Dr De Silva prefers to use sedation anaesthesia because it’s safer than general anaesthesia.
Follow-up Appointment
After your deep plane facelift surgery, it is important to adhere to any aftercare instructions given by Dr De Silva. This may include attending follow-up appointments with Dr De Silva and/or a dermatologist at regular intervals. It’s important to keep these follow-up appointments for the best outcomes and ensure that any potential complications are quickly identified and addressed. In general, Dr De Silva will see all patients the day after the surgery to provide his contact details so you can contact him at any time.
Social Readiness
After surgery, a bandage is placed around your head. This supports your face and reduces swelling. We also use micro-drains for some patients to enhance recovery.
Dr De Silva’s patients can leave the clinic after 1 to 2 hours post-surgery. However, strenuous activities like exercise must be avoided. In 5 to 7 days, your facial stitches will be removed. After 2 weeks, most of the swelling will be gone.
Client Results After 8 Weeks
Deep Plane Facelift vs. Standard Facelift Surgeries
Here's a table summarising the main differences between deep plane facelift and other kinds of facelift plastic surgery.
| Recovery Time | Best Age | Risks | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep Plane Facelift | 2 to 3 weeks | 40's to 60's |
Bruising, swelling, & bleeding |
| Skin-Only Facelift | 1 to 2 weeks | 30 to 40 |
Unnatural lines in skin Bruising, swelling, & bleeding |
| SMAS Facelift | 3 to 8 weeks | 40's to 60's |
Bruising, swelling, bleeding, & delayed wound healing |
| MACS Facelift | 3 to 4 weeks | Late 30's to 60's |
Bruising, swelling, scarring, & bleeding |
| Mini Facelift | 1 to 3 weeks | Late 30's to 40's |
Bruising, swelling, bleeding, & scarring |
| S-Lift | 3 to 5 days | Late 30's to 60's |
Bruising, swelling, & bleeding |
Are You a Good Candidate For a Deep Plane Facelift?
Deep plane facelift works best for patients aged 40 to 60. It is ideal for those who have significant signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, facial volume loss, and jowls.
Candidates must also be in good health. During your consultation with me, we will discuss your medical history to see any possible complications. I will also determine if my signature deep plane facelift is the right procedure for you.
How Much Does a Deep Plane Facelift Cost in the UK?
Each patient has unique needs and goals. Some need more adjustments, while others need fewer. A deep plane facelift in the UK can cost £14,000 to £30,000. It can increase depending on the additional treatments needed such as volume enhancement (fat transfer) and chin augmentation. Please take note that a facelift is a complex procedure that requires many years of medical training and experience. Hence, it costs a lot. However, a deep plane facelift is a one-time investment that lasts a lifetime.
What to Expect from Recovery
You must rest for a week or more following the procedure, with a gradual return to light activity as tolerated. Additionally, you should avoid strenuous activities, such as exercise and heavy lifting, for several weeks after the surgery. You must also take pain medication to help manage any pain or discomfort during recovery. It is recommended to keep your head elevated during sleep for at least one week to reduce swelling and promote proper healing. You must also use cold compresses to reduce inflammation and bruising. For most patients, these side effects will be gone a week after surgery. However, they can sometimes last up to two weeks.
Deep Plane Facelift Scars
Dr De Silva’s signature deep plane facelift produces minimal to zero scarring. Since the deep plane facelift does not separate the skin from the muscles, there is no tension on the incision lines when closed. This makes the incisions less noticeable. In addition, a deep plane facelift prevents pulling the earlobe, which can create a pixie ear. A pixie ear is a deformity in which the earlobes become elongated and pulled down after a facelift plastic surgery.
What the VFR-7 Deep Plane Facelift is Not
A deep plane facelift effectively reduces signs of ageing such as sagging skin, jowls, nasolabial folds (lines from the edge of the nose to the mouth), and excess neck fat. After a deep plane facelift, you can expect smoother, younger-looking skin. In addition, getting a facelift early helps you recover faster. This is because there’s less tissue repositioning done. Yet, while a VFR-7 may provide superior results when compared with other types of facelift surgery, it does have some points to consider.
Not a Traditional Facelift
Unlike traditional facelifts, which often pull the skin sideways, the VFR-7 lifts the face vertically, creating a more natural, youthful appearance without the “pulled” look.
No Tissue Removal Required
While older techniques often involve removing tissue from the face, eyes, or neck, the VFR-7 prioritises lifting and preserving natural volume. This approach reduces the long-term need for fillers, as it maintains the face’s inherent softness and structure.
Not a Quick Fix
The VFR-7 requires a surgical approach that releases facial ligaments to lift areas back to their youthful position. This technique is designed for longer-lasting results, but it does involve a recovery period. Most patients experience initial swelling that settles within 2 to 6 weeks.
Not a Substitute for Natural Appearance
The "puffy" look often associated with repeated non-surgical treatments is avoided here. Many patients have found non-surgical methods insufficient, and the VFR-7 provides a more definitive, natural-looking lift.
Not a Guarantee of Perfect Symmetry
It’s natural for everyone to have slight facial asymmetries, even models and actors. While the VFR-7 aims for refined, balanced results, no surgical technique can achieve absolute symmetry.
Not a Solution for Life Changes
If you’re going through a challenging life phase, such as a breakup or career change, it’s best to wait until you feel ready before considering a cosmetic procedure. Surgery should be a decision made for personal fulfilment, not as a remedy for life’s difficulties.
Focused on Enhancement, Not Perfection
Every surgical procedure, including the VFR-7, is about refinement and achieving natural improvements. While results are carefully tailored, around 5% of patients may require a minor refinement procedure for optimal outcomes.
Risks Associated With the Vertical Face Restore Deep Plane Facelift
Here are the risks associated with vertical face restore deep plane facelift:
Swelling and bruising
It is normal to have some swelling and bruising after a Vertical Face Restore 7 deep plane facelift. However, prolonged or excessive swelling and bruising may indicate something has gone wrong. If this happens, contact your doctor right away.
Pain and discomfort
Pain is not a common feature following vertical facelift surgery. However, although we give patients analgesia from our experience, more than 50% of Dr De Silva’s patients do not require analgesia.
Scarring from incisions
Depending on the extent of your surgery, there may be scarring from any incisions present after the procedure to remove loose skin. Scars can be placed discretely around the curves of your ears and under their hairline. In the great majority of people, scars heal well and are difficult to see. There is a 1% possibility of troublesome scars e.g. keloid scars, these can require additional treatment.
Poor healing of tissue or skin
In some cases, wounds may not heal properly. This can cause further issues such as skin discolouration or other problems depending on where the wound is located on your face.
World Class Facial Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery
Videos Showing VFR-7 Results & Progress
Dr De Silva has transformed thousands of faces through his unique surgical techniques. Below is a small sample of some of his transformations.
Combine Your Deep Plane Facelift in London with Other Procedures
For optimal facial rejuvenation, consider combining your facelift with additional procedures. As one of the best deep plane facelift surgeons in the UK, Dr De Silva can use these combined procedures to address specific areas, creating a balanced, harmonious appearance in line with your aesthetic goals.
Brow Lift
A brow lift elevates sagging brows and smooths forehead lines, restoring a youthful, refreshed expression. This procedure complements a facelift by addressing upper-face concerns and enhancing overall facial harmony.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids, rejuvenating tired eyes. This enhancement pairs well with a facelift, brightening the eye area for a revitalised look.
Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing treatments improve skin tone, texture, and clarity by addressing fine lines, pigmentation, and scars. When combined with a facelift, these treatments create a smooth, radiant complexion.
Chin Implant
A chin implant enhances facial symmetry and strengthens the jawline, providing balance to the face. Paired with a facelift, it helps achieve a well-defined, youthful profile.
Is Dr De Silva the right fit for your Deep Plane Facelift?
If you're feeling self-conscious about the signs of ageing and are looking for a way to restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance, Dr De Silva is the perfect choice for your Deep Plane Facelift. With years of experience and expertise in facial rejuvenation, he understands how important it is to not just turn back time but to do so in a way that looks natural and enhances your facial features.
Dr. De Silva’s skill in the Deep Plane Facelift goes beyond simply tightening the skin – he addresses the deeper layers of muscle and tissue for a result that rejuvenates and restores balance to your face, without the "pulled" look. When you choose Dr. De Silva, you're choosing a compassionate expert who truly cares about helping you feel your very best.
- His VFR-7 technique is proven to provide superior results
- Educator to the American Society of Oculo-Facial Plastic Surgery, USA
- Incorporates advanced technology into the procedure for quick recovery time
Visit Dr Julian De Silva to Discuss Your London Deep Plane Facelift
Interested in learning more about how vertical face restore helps you achieve the youthful look you’ve always dreamed of?
Book a consultation with Dr De Silva today to discuss your options and receive a personalised treatment plan. You may also visit the clinic at 23 Harley St, London W1G 9QN, UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Comparing deep plane facelift surgery with other types helps determine the best procedure for you.
The best facelift type varies from one person to another. Hence, it helps to know the differences between my signature deep plane facelift and other types of facelift.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. Skin-Only Facelift
Surgeons used to do facelift procedures by operating on the skin only, making the skin-only facelift one of the most traditional types of facelift.
As its name implies, the skin-only facelift involves operating on the skin. It does not lift the tissue beneath it. On the other hand, the deep plane facelift involves operating under the supportive layer of the face.
The skin-only facelift produces instant results. Recovery time (1 to 2 weeks) is shorter than that of a deep plane facelift. However, the results of my signature deep plane facelift last longer than those of a skin-only facelift.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. SMAS Facelift
SMAS stands for the superficial muscular aponeurotic system. Hence, the SMAS facelift targets the said area.
Just like the deep plane facelift, the SMAS facelift also targets the lower two-thirds of the face.
However, the primary difference is the SMAS facelift raises the skin and SMAS layer separately. The deep plane facelift raises them together.
Recovering from an SMAS facelift UK takes longer than recovering from a deep plane facelift. In particular, it takes 3 to 8 weeks. The results of my signature deep plane facelift also last longer than those of an SMAS facelift.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. MACS Facelift
MACS stands for minimal access cranial suspension. A MACS facelift targets the underlying muscles of the face.
The deep plane facelift targets a larger area compared to a MACS facelift. Recovery time (3 to 4 weeks) is slightly longer compared to my signature deep plane facelift. The results of my signature deep plane facelift last longer as well.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. Mini Facelift
A mini facelift is done by making tiny incisions on the face. Since the incisions are small, a mini facelift produces less dramatic results compared to my signature deep plane facelift.
In addition, a mini facelift only involves the skin. On the contrary, the deep plane facelift involves the skin and supportive layer of the face.
You can recover from a mini facelift (1 to 3 weeks) faster than a deep plane facelift. However, the results of my signature deep plane facelift last longer.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. S-Lift
The S-lift involves S-shaped incisions and removing excess skin and fat.
Recovering from an S-lift (3 to 5 days) is shorter than recovering from a deep plane facelift. However, the results of my signature deep plane facelift last longer.