Kris Jenner, Lindsay Lohan, Christina Aguilera — something curious is happening in Hollywood. These stars aren’t just aging gracefully; they appear to be aging in reverse. While fans speculate wildly, many believe the secret lies in a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure: the deep plane facelift. Of course, not everyone’s on board with that theory. Lohan claims her fresh glow comes from green juice, ice baths, and the joys of motherhood.
Still, there’s no denying a shift in how openly celebrities talk about plastic surgery. According to Dr. Daniel Knott, director of facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery at UCSF Health, we’re in a new era of transparency. And that openness has a ripple effect — making everyday people more comfortable discussing cosmetic procedures. Jenner’s own surgeon was named in both Page Six and People after speculation exploded online about her new look. Even her daughter, Kylie Jenner, recently admitted to a breast augmentation in a TikTok comment, something unthinkable just a few years ago.
“People used to do these things in private,” says Dr. Knott. “Now there’s far less shame around them. Transparency is becoming the norm — though some stars still prefer to stay silent.”
So what exactly is a deep plane facelift, and why is everyone suddenly obsessed with it?
What is a deep plane facelift?
A deep plane facelift goes further than a standard lift. Rather than just tightening the skin, it targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) — a deep layer of connective tissue above the facial muscles.
“You’re working below the surface,” explains Dr. Knott. “This technique lifts the entire face at a deeper level, giving more natural, longer-lasting results. Plus, the tension is held better, and scars are minimal because they don’t widen or thicken.”
Patients typically take 7 to 14 days to recover. As for the results? They can last up to 15 years or more. But don’t expect a bargain — depending on the surgeon, location, and any additional procedures, prices can range anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000.
How is it different from traditional facelifts?
Most traditional facelifts focus only on tightening the skin. They’re simpler and less invasive, but the effects wear off sooner. Deep plane facelifts, on the other hand, provide more dramatic and durable transformations.
“They preserve the blood supply because the skin stays attached to the SMAS,” says Knott. And although it’s more invasive, the overall downtime isn’t significantly longer. However, not every surgeon is trained to perform it. The technique is intricate, requiring extreme precision near critical facial muscles and nerves.
“It’s essentially two surgeries — one on each side of the face,” he adds. “Perfect symmetry is crucial. Only very experienced, confident surgeons should attempt it.”
What patients should know before going under the knife
Dr. Knott’s advice? Do your homework. Social media and flashy websites can be misleading.
“Look deeper than Instagram before choosing your surgeon,” he warns. “Check their credentials, board certifications, and track record.”
If a deep plane facelift is done poorly, complications can be serious — from nerve damage and asymmetry to infections and hairline issues.
The bottom line? If you’re considering this procedure, choose a qualified, board-certified surgeon with years of proven success. Your face — and future — deserve nothing less.
