Treatment Overview
The Deep Plane Midface Lift is an advanced surgical procedure designed to lift and rejuvenate the midface region, including the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and lower eyelid area. Unlike traditional facelifts, the deep plane technique repositions the SMAS and underlying facial muscles along with the skin, producing natural, long-lasting results. Korea is globally recognized for performing this procedure with precision, using 3D imaging, endoscopic guidance, and customized surgical planning to restore youthful contours.
Purpose & Benefits
The Deep Plane Midface Lift offers several key advantages:
- Lifts sagging cheeks and midface tissues for a youthful appearance
- Reduces nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Restores natural midface volume and contours
- Enhances overall facial harmony while maintaining natural expressions
- Provides long-lasting results compared to skin-only facelifts
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is ideal for individuals who:
- Have visible sagging or flattening in the midface region
- Desire natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation
- Are in good overall health with realistic expectations
- Prefer permanent structural correction over temporary fillers or threads
- Want harmonious restoration of cheek, lower eyelid, and midface contours
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe in experienced hands, potential risks include:
- Swelling and bruising in the midface area
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Asymmetry
- Minor scarring
- Infection or rare nerve injury
Selecting an experienced Korean surgeon significantly reduces these risks.
Surgical Techniques Used
The Deep Plane Midface Lift involves:
- Releasing facial ligaments to mobilize midface tissues
- Lifting and repositioning the SMAS and deeper facial layers
- Redraping the skin over lifted structures for smooth contours
- Hidden intraoral or preauricular incisions to minimize visible scars
- Optional endoscopic assistance for precise tissue mobilization
- Combining with fat repositioning or minor lower eyelid adjustments when needed
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery generally takes 7–14 days, with swelling and bruising gradually resolving over 2–3 weeks.
Aftercare includes:
- Wearing a facial support or compression garment
- Sleeping with the head elevated to reduce swelling
- Avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 3–4 weeks
- Gentle scar care and facial massage as recommended
- Regular follow-ups to monitor healing and symmetry
Results & Longevity
Immediate improvements are visible post-surgery, with final midface contours appearing after 2–3 months as swelling subsides. Results typically last 10–15 years, maintaining natural cheek volume, lifted midface, and rejuvenated lower eyelid area.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a leading destination for deep plane midface lifts due to its advanced surgical techniques, precision imaging, and international patient support.
Step-by-Step Process for International Patients:
- Initial Consultation: Online or in-person, with photos, facial assessment, and preliminary surgical plan
- 3D Imaging & Simulation: High-resolution 3D scans simulate expected results, plan incision lines, and lifting vectors
- Preoperative Checks: Lab tests, anesthesia consultation, and overall health screening
- Surgery Day: Under general anesthesia, surgeons release ligaments, lift SMAS and deep tissues, and redrape skin; procedure lasts 2–4 hours
- Immediate Recovery: Observation in recovery room or overnight hospital stay
- Early Follow-Up (Days 3–5): Swelling check, wound care, and guidance on post-op care
- Suture Removal & Imaging (Week 1–2): Removal of external stitches if any; imaging confirms symmetry
- Final Follow-Up & Discharge: Most international patients return home within 7–10 days, with remote follow-up support
Why Korea Stands Out:
- High-volume specialists performing hundreds of midface lifts annually
- Advanced 3D planning and optional endoscopic guidance for precision
- Signature structural lifting techniques for long-lasting natural results
- International patient services including translation, airport pick-up, and recovery guidance
Cost Range
The cost of a Deep Plane Midface Lift in Korea generally ranges from ₩20,000,000 to ₩35,000,000 KRW (approximately $15,000 – $26,500 USD), depending on surgeon experience, clinic, and procedure complexity.
| Service Component | Cost Range (KRW) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation & Imaging | ₩100,000 – ₩300,000 | $75 – $230 |
| Surgical Fee | ₩18,000,000 – ₩30,000,000 | $13,500 – $22,800 |
| Anesthesia & Facility Fees | ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,000,000 | $760 – $1,530 |
| Postoperative Care | ₩200,000 – ₩500,000 | $150 – $380 |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery: Renowned for natural midface rejuvenation using deep plane techniques
- ID Hospital: High-volume specialists offering structural midface lifts
- JW Plastic Surgery: Known for endoscopic-assisted midface lifting with minimal scarring
- View Plastic Surgery: Popular among international patients seeking long-lasting midface rejuvenation
- The Plus Plastic Surgery: Focuses on balanced, natural facial contour restoration
