Facial Surgery
Deep Plane Facelift in Portugal for UK Patients
Advanced facial rejuvenation in Lisbon that repositions deeper facial structures for natural, long-lasting results, with recovery planning and follow-up support for UK patients.
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What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A Deep Plane Facelift is one of the most comprehensive facial rejuvenation procedures available. Unlike a traditional facelift, which only addresses the surface layer of skin, the deep plane technique works at a deeper anatomical level — repositioning the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the underlying facial fat compartments.
This approach allows the surgeon to release and reposition the facial structures that have descended with age, rather than simply pulling the skin tight. The result is a more natural, harmonious appearance that does not look "operated".
The procedure addresses the lower two-thirds of the face and the neck — including jowling, deep nasolabial folds, neck laxity, and loss of facial volume. It can be combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or brow lifting for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Is this right for you?
- You notice significant jowling or loss of facial definition
- Deep nasolabial folds that cannot be addressed with non-surgical treatments
- Neck laxity or excess skin under the chin
- You want long-lasting results rather than repeated non-surgical interventions
Recovery & Aftercare
What to Expect
First Week
Rest and limited activity. Swelling and bruising are expected and begin to resolve by day 5–7. Surgical drains, if used, are typically removed within the first 48 hours.
Weeks 2–4
Most patients return to light activity by week 2. Residual swelling and tightness are normal and continue to improve. Social activities can typically be resumed by week 3–4.
Long-Term
Final results emerge gradually over 3–6 months as swelling fully resolves. Results are long-lasting — typically 8–12 years, longer than conventional facelifts.
Support for UK Patients
All pre-operative consultations can be conducted virtually or in person. For UK patients, post-operative follow-up care is provided by our NMC-registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Oxford, ensuring you receive expert monitoring throughout your recovery without repeated travel to Lisbon.
Facial Surgery
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
You have significant jowling or loss of definition along the jawline
You have deep nasolabial folds that have not responded to non-surgical treatments
You have excess skin or laxity in the neck area
You are in good general health and a non-smoker, or able to stop smoking for the required period
You have realistic expectations and are seeking long-lasting results rather than repeated non-surgical interventions
Suitability for a deep plane facelift is assessed individually at consultation. The procedure requires good general health, stable weight, and an ability to commit to the recovery period. Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications and impairs healing — patients are advised to stop at least two weeks before and after surgery.
Your Journey
Consultation Process for UK Patients
Initial Consultation
Your first consultation can be conducted via video call or in person at our clinic in Lisbon. This is an opportunity to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and ask any questions before any decisions are made.
Pre-operative Assessment
Pre-operative blood tests and medical clearance are completed before you travel to Lisbon. Your surgeon will provide clear pre-operative instructions, including guidance on medications, smoking, and nutrition.
Surgery in Lisbon
Your procedure takes place at our fully certified surgical facility in Lisbon. You will be supported throughout by our clinical team, with clear guidance on what to expect at every stage.
Recovery and Return
Most patients remain in Lisbon for approximately 7–10 days following surgery. Flying is not recommended for at least one month. You will return with a detailed post-operative plan and ongoing support from our Oxford nursing team.
Follow-up in Oxford
Post-operative follow-up is provided by our NMC-registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Oxford, ensuring your recovery is monitored by qualified professionals without repeated travel to Portugal.
Important Information
Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in full at consultation. The most commonly reported risks specific to facelift surgery include:
- Haematoma (blood collection under the skin) — the most common complication, usually managed without further surgery
- Temporary or prolonged numbness in the face or neck
- Visible or thickened scarring, particularly in patients prone to keloid formation
- Asymmetry of results
- Rare risk of injury to facial nerve branches, causing temporary or permanent weakness
- Skin necrosis (rare) — significantly more likely in smokers
- Infection — managed with antibiotics if detected early
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do results from a deep plane facelift last?
Results are typically long-lasting — most patients can expect 8–12 years before any significant recurrence of ageing changes. This is considerably longer than a standard SMAS facelift, due to the deeper level of tissue repositioning.
Will I look 'done' or unnatural?
The deep plane technique repositions the underlying facial structures rather than simply pulling the skin. This tends to produce a more natural, refreshed appearance without the stretched look sometimes associated with older facelift methods.
Can I fly home after surgery?
Flying is not recommended for at least one month following a deep plane facelift. Most patients remain in Lisbon for 7–10 days before returning to the UK by other means, or staying longer if preferred.
Do I need to stop smoking before surgery?
Yes. Smoking significantly impairs healing and increases the risk of serious complications, including skin necrosis. You will be advised to stop smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery. This is a clinical requirement, not a preference.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book a consultation with our specialist plastic surgery team in Lisbon, with pre and post-operative support available in Oxford.