Facelifts: Trending Techniques, Terminology & What It Means for You

7 hours ago
3 min read

By Jade Chapman – Surgical Assistant to Dr Theo Birch, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon (FRACS)

Dr Theo Birch before and after face lift procedure

Facelift surgery continues to evolve, with modern techniques focused on achieving natural, refined and long-lasting results. With the rise of social media and aesthetic trends, patients are often exposed to a range of terms — from “deep plane facelift” to “mini lift” — which can be confusing without proper context.

Understanding what these terms mean, and more importantly, how they apply to you as an individual, is key when considering facial rejuvenation surgery.

Understanding “Trending” Facelift Terms

You may have come across some of the following terms:

Deep Plane Facelift
SMAS Lift
Mini Facelift
Ponytail Lift
Vertical Lift
Scarless Facelift (a misleading term — all surgery involves incisions)

While these terms are widely used in marketing, they are often simplified descriptions of surgical approaches rather than entirely different procedures.

The most important takeaway is this:

There is no one-size-fits-all facelift.

The Deep Plane Facelift: A Gold Standard Technique

One of the most advanced and widely discussed techniques is the deep plane facelift.

This approach involves repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face — not just tightening the skin. By releasing and lifting the underlying tissues, the deep plane technique allows for:

More natural movement and expression
Longer-lasting results
Improved midface and jawline contour
Soft, non-pulled outcomes

Rather than creating tension on the skin, the lift occurs at a deeper level, which is why results appear more authentic and less “operated on.”

A Tailored Approach: No Two Facelifts Are the Same

At the core of Dr Birch’s philosophy is a tailored, patient-centred approach.

Every face is different — and so is every surgical plan.

Your procedure is designed based on:

Facial anatomy and bone structure
Skin quality and elasticity
Degree of ageing and tissue descent
Neck laxity and fat distribution
Your aesthetic goals and preferences

In many cases, a facelift is not a single technique, but a combination of approaches designed to achieve a bala

nced, harmonious result.

Incisions: Where and Why They Matter

Incision placement is a critical component of facelift surgery, both for access and for achieving discreet, well-hidden scars.

Temporal (Hairline) Incisions

These are placed within or along the hairline in the temple region and allow for lifting of the upper face and lateral brow.

Peri-Auricular (Around the Ear) Incisions

Carefully positioned around the natural contours of the ear, these incisions allow access to the midface, jawline and lower face while remaining well concealed.

Neck Lift & Submental Incision

For patients with neck laxity, a neck lift is often performed in combination with a facelift. This may involve:

Tightening of platysmal bands
Removal or contouring of fat
A small submental incision (under the chin) to improve neck definition

This combination helps create a sharper jawline and smoother neck contour.

Combining Techniques for Optimal Results

A modern facelift is rarely a standalone procedure. Depending on your needs, Dr Birch may combine:

Deep plane facelift for structural repositioning
Neck lift for contour and definition
Submental liposuction or contouring
Skin treatments (laser, peels) to improve texture
Adjunctive procedures such as eyelid surgery or brow lift

This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of facial ageing are addressed — not just one area.

Natural Results Over Trends

While trends come and go, the goal of facelift surgery remains consistent:

to restore a refreshed, natural version of yourself — not to change how you look.

Dr Birch focuses on:

Subtle, refined rejuvenation
Preservation of facial identity
Balanced proportions
Long-term, sustainable results

The best facelift is one that no one can identify — only that you look well-rested and rejuvenated.

Final Thoughts

Understanding facelift terminology is helpful, but choosing the right surgeon and approach is far more important than selecting a “trending” technique.

With a deep understanding of facial anatomy and advanced surgical methods such as the deep plane facelift, Dr Theo Birch delivers results that are tailored, precise and natural.