SA surgeon breaks down the deep plane facelift surge amid global aesthetic trends
A global weight loss boom, fuelled by miracle diabetes drugs, has led to an unexpected side effect: the 'O weight loss face' , marked by hollowed cheeks, sagging jowls, and prematurely aged skin. In turn, this phenomenon has sparked a significant rise in demand for advanced facial rejuvenation, and particularly the deep plane facelift – what experts term 'the facelift that lifts where it matters most' .
'One of the most common complaints I hear from patients is, 'I finally have the body I wanted, but my face looks 10 years older,'' says Professor Chrysis Sofianos, one of South Africa's leading plastic surgeons and experts in deep plane facelifts.
The Gauteng-based specialist notes that he has seen a meteoric increase in consultations from patients seeking to reverse the facial deflation and laxity caused by rapid weight loss.
'This is just one instance where the deep plane facelift truly shines, as it restores natural facial harmony by lifting and repositioning deep tissues, not just tightening the skin. By addressing the deeper structural changes caused by significant weight loss, this approach delivers far more natural outcomes and a timeless look.
The Facelift No One Can See
What sets the deep plane facelift apart? Unlike traditional facelifts that only address the skin's surface, the deep plane technique lifts beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer of tissue to reposition and support the foundational structures of the face. This approach not only rejuvenates the face more effectively than other techniques, but also avoids the tell-tale 'pulled' look, offering a more subtle, organic-looking transformation.
Professor Sofianos further enhances his results with the Vertical Restore method, lifting facial tissues vertically – in harmony with the way gravity naturally impacts the face over time. This technique provides holistic rejuvenation of the midface, jawline, neck, and brow, with results that restore youthful contours and expressions.
'Only a handful of surgeons currently offer this breakthrough procedure, and I can confidently state that the deep plane facelift is the gold standard for natural, long-lasting revitalisation.'
According to Professor Sofianos, deep plane facelifts offer several major advantages compared to conventional facelifts: Superior, long-lasting results : By repositioning deeper facial structures rather than merely tightening the skin, the deep plane facelift offers longer-lasting, more authentic outcomes.
Natural look and movement : The technique avoids excessive skin tension, ensuring the face remains expressive and vibrant, even in motion.
Comprehensive rejuvenation : From sagging jowls and hollow cheeks to neck laxity, the deep plane facelift addresses multiple problem areas in one single, unified procedure.
The Ultimate One-Stop Shop for Aesthetic Excellence and Care
Professor Sofianos's practice is not only a leader in surgical innovation but also a complete one-stop destination for all aesthetic needs. His clinic offers a full suite of surgical and non-surgical procedures – from advanced facial surgeries to injectables, laser treatments, skin rejuvenation, and body contouring. Each treatment is bespoke and delivered with meticulous care to ensure natural, balanced, and long-lasting results.
What truly sets Professor Sofianos apart, however, is his absolute commitment to patient care. Every facelift is supported by a holistic pre- and post-operative care programme, designed to optimise recovery and results.
A signature component of this is the integration of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), which is included as standard in his facelift packages. HBOT begins around 7–10 days after surgery, dramatically improving oxygen delivery to tissues, speeding up wound healing, reducing bruising and swelling, and significantly shortening overall healing time.
As a result of these additional post-surgical interventions, the typical recovery period is two to three weeks, with most patients able to resume social activities within a month. With comprehensive aftercare – including HBOT and nutrient therapies – patients benefit from accelerated healing and refined results that continue to improve for several months post-surgery.
'The success of a procedure isn't just about the surgery itself, but about guiding patients through a complete journey from start to finish,' he explains. 'My patients receive comprehensive, full-spectrum care – including pre-operative preparation, expert surgical techniques, post-operative hyperbaric therapy, scar management, and continuous follow-ups. It's this level of commitment that ensures optimal outcomes, supporting patients through every step of their transformation and helping them feel comfortable and secure throughout.'
A Lasting Solution for Facial Rejuvenation in the Weight Loss Era
As weight loss medications continue to help patients address issues with weight management and obesity, experts predict that the demand for facial rejuvenation will only rise.
'This trend has created both challenges and opportunities for plastic surgeons, and in many ways is reshaping our field in real time. The good news for patients is that we're at the beginning of a new chapter in aesthetic medicine – where a combination of sophisticated surgical techniques and aftercare procedures are helping people achieve what was once thought impossible: natural-looking transformations that truly turn back the clock.'
For those seeking to restore their youthful appearance with confidence and discretion, the deep plane facelift offers an unmatched, cutting-edge solution, delivered with precision, artistry, and unparalleled care by Professor Chrysis Sofianos and his dedicated team.
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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Although rooted in centuries-old wisdom, 'The Gem: Lotus of Thousand Petals' addresses the struggles of the present day - constant noise, inner restlessness and disconnection from self and others. 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