22-05-2025
Why the deep plane facelift is the new gold standard
Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a leading Gauteng-based plastic surgeon and an expert in deep plane facelifts
Image: supplied
Plastic surgery in South Africa is having a major moment. Gone are the days when going under the knife was a whispered secret.
These days, talking openly about cosmetic procedures is not only accepted but also encouraged. From the glitzy streets of Sandton to Instagram feeds across Cape Town, more South Africans are embracing facial rejuvenation as an essential part of their lifestyle, not just a hush-hush fix.
Let's face it: celebrity culture plays a huge role in shaping our beauty aspirations.
Take Kris Jenner, for example. Her 'new face' has sparked endless speculation, with many experts pointing to the deep plane facelift as her secret weapon for looking refreshed yet natural.
Closer to home, South Africa's own Khanyi Mbau is no stranger to the spotlight or to breaking the internet with her ever-evolving look.
But it's not just for celebrities anymore. Every day, South Africans are seeking out cosmetic surgery to look and feel their best, with searches for 'facelift South Africa' and 'plastic surgery trends' at an all-time high, according to Google Trends data from 2023.
One major driver is the global weight loss craze, especially the popularity of new medications originally designed for diabetes.
While these drugs have helped many achieve their dream bodies, they've also led to the rise of the 'weight loss face', that hollowed, saggy look that can make people appear older than they feel.
Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a leading Gauteng-based plastic surgeon and an expert in deep plane facelifts, explains that, '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.''
According to the Gauteng plastic surgeon guru, he's seen a surge in consultations from people who have lost weight rapidly, only to find that their faces have lost volume and firmness.
The deep plane facelift
So, what's the secret to reversing the 'weight loss face' and other signs of ageing?
According to Sofianos, it's all about going deeper literally. The deep plane facelift isn't just another beauty trend; it's being called the gold standard for natural, long-lasting results.
Unlike traditional facelifts, which tighten only the skin, the deep plane facelift repositions the deeper layers of facial tissue. This technique gives a lift where it matters most, restoring youthful contours without the 'pulled' or 'wind tunnel' look so many people fear.
'This is just one instance where the deep plane facelift truly shines,' says Professor Sofianos. It restores natural facial harmony by lifting and repositioning deep tissues, not just tightening the skin.
"The results are subtle and timeless, people will notice you look fantastic, not that you've had work done.'
Plastic surgeons like Professor Sofianos are at the forefront of this cultural shift, offering advanced techniques that respect both science and artistry.
Image: Supplied
