Deep plane facelift surgery is a modern approach that addresses facial ageing at a foundational level, rather than just tightening surface tissues.
If you are researching this procedure, you likely have questions about how it compares to other types of facelifts and how those differences affect the procedure’s cost.
This guide explores the main factors that determine deep plane facelift costs in Sydney, but we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr Ellis Choy to receive a personalised assessment and detailed quote. Each patient’s needs are unique, and Dr Choy will customise your treatment plan.
What Factors Into the Cost of Facial Plastic Surgery?
Multiple different elements contribute to the total cost of a facelift, regardless of which technique is used. These are some of the key considerations:
Surgeon’s Fees
The surgeon’s fee reflects the expertise and time required to perform your procedure. Deep plane facelift surgery is technically demanding and requires extensive training and experience. A specialist plastic surgeon with specific expertise in this advanced technique typically commands higher fees.
Hospital and Facility Fees
Deep plane facelift surgery is performed in an accredited hospital or surgical facility. These fees cover:
- Operating theatre costs
- Overnight stay (if required)
- Nursing care
- Surgical equipment and supplies
- Hospital administrative costs
Anaesthesia Fees
Your procedure will require the services of a qualified anaesthetist. Their fee is determined by factors such as:
- The type of anaesthesia used
- The length of the procedure
- The complexity of your case
- Their professional expertise
General anaesthesia is used for deep plane facelifts. This is the most expensive type of anaesthesia because it requires a higher level of monitoring, specialised equipment like ventilators, a complex medication cocktail, and the expertise of a highly trained anaesthetist to administer and manage it.
Pre- and Post-Operative Care
Your facelift includes more than the procedure itself. The total cost may cover:
- Pre-operative assessments
- Post-operative follow-up appointments
- Recovery garments if needed
- Post-surgical medications
Location
Surgical costs in Sydney often reflect the higher operating costs associated with a major metropolitan area. While this may mean higher fees compared to some regional areas, it also typically means access to well-equipped facilities and experienced medical teams.
How Does a Deep Plane Facelift Compare to Other Facelift Techniques?
Different facelift techniques require varying levels of surgical skill, time and resources, which affects their overall cost.
Helpful Definition: SMAS
The SMAS layer, or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, is a sheet of tissue that extends from the neck to the forehead. It is made of collagen, elastin, fat and muscle fibres, and it helps support the skin and muscles of the face.
Helpful Definition: SMAS
The SMAS layer, or Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, is a sheet of tissue that extends from the neck to the forehead. It is made of collagen, elastin, fat and muscle fibres, and it helps support the skin and muscles of the face.
Deep Plane Facelift
This advanced technique involves working beneath the SMAS layer while keeping it attached to the skin, allowing for extensive repositioning of facial tissues. Due to the technical expertise required and the time involved, deep plane facelifts typically represent a higher initial investment. However, many patients find this worthwhile given the ability to address multiple areas of the face in a single surgery.
SMAS Facelift
The SMAS technique separates and adjusts the skin and SMAS layer individually. While still a sophisticated procedure, it generally costs less than a deep plane facelift. Additionally, the surgical time may be shorter, which can reduce facility and anaesthesia fees.
Mini Facelift
A mini facelift (also called a short-scar facelift) focuses on the lower third of the face using shorter incisions. As it is less extensive than a deep plane facelift, it costs less. However, it may not be suitable for patients with more significant signs of ageing.
MACS Facelift
The MACS (minimal access cranial suspension) lift is a type of short-scar facelift that can be performed under intravenous (IV) sedation. This is a more affordable option because it does not require general anaesthesia, but it is not suitable for all patients. The best candidates are younger patients who still have good skin elasticity.
How Much Does a Consultation Cost?
A fee of $350 is required to book a consultation with Dr Choy. This includes a thorough evaluation of your goals and an assessment to determine if a deep plane facelift is suitable for you.
We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to reschedule your appointment. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled time are non-refundable.
Are There Nonsurgical Facelift Alternatives I Should Consider?
While there is no true nonsurgical equivalent to a deep plane facelift, several nonsurgical treatments may help with skin tightening in the face and neck. These include:
- Profound RF microneedling
- Secret RF microneedling
- Thread lifting
- Accent Prime
- Thermage FLX
- Ulthera
These nonsurgical treatments are more affordable than surgery. However, they have significant limitations compared to a deep plane facelift. They cannot:
- Reposition deeper facial tissues
- Remove excess skin
- Create dramatic changes in facial contours
- Provide the same longevity of results
Dr Choy offers both surgical and nonsurgical skin tightening options. During your consultation, he will help you understand whether a deep plane facelift or nonsurgical alternatives would better suit your needs, goals and circumstances.
The Final Tally: What Is the Cost of a Deep Plane Facelift in Sydney?
The cost of deep plane facelift surgery in Sydney typically ranges from $30,000 to $40,000. This includes all associated fees—from the surgeon’s fee to hospital costs and anaesthesia.
Please note that these figures are averages and estimates. Your specific cost may vary depending on your individual needs and circumstances. A consultation with Dr Choy is required to receive an accurate quote. During this consultation, you will receive a detailed cost breakdown and information about available payment options.
As deep plane facelift surgery is a cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. The full cost will need to be paid out-of-pocket.
Meet With Dr Ellis Choy to Discuss Your Deep Plane Facelift
The decision to undergo deep plane facelift surgery is significant, both personally and financially. During your consultation with Dr Ellis Choy, you will have the opportunity to discuss all aspects of the procedure in detail, from the surgical approach to the expected cost of your treatment plan.
To schedule your consultation with Dr Choy, submit an enquiry through our website or call (02) 8962 9388. We welcome patients from Sydney and throughout Australia who are considering deep plane facelift surgery.
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