Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
The preservation deep plane facelift represents the pinnacle of modern facial rejuvenation surgery, combining the comprehensive lifting power of deep plane techniques with a philosophy of preserving your natural facial architecture. This advanced approach addresses aging throughout multiple tissue layers while maintaining the unique characteristics that define your appearance. Dr. Eric Cerrati specializes in this sophisticated technique, delivering natural results that reflect a more youthful version of yourself rather than an altered appearance.
A Philosophy Built on Preservation and Precision
“The preservation deep plane facelift fundamentally changes how we approach facial aging,” explains Dr. Cerrati. “Rather than simply removing tissue or pulling skin, we’re restoring the natural position and relationships of facial structures. This preservation-first philosophy means patients maintain their individual facial characteristics while achieving comprehensive rejuvenation that can last more than a decade.”
This technique recognizes that aging isn’t merely about excess skin—it involves the descent of facial fat compartments, weakening of supporting ligaments, and changes in underlying muscle structure. By addressing all these elements while preserving critical anatomical structures, the preservation deep plane facelift achieves results that look naturally refreshed rather than surgically altered.
What Is a Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
The preservation deep plane facelift is an evolution of traditional deep plane surgery that emphasizes maintaining the integrity of facial ligaments, nerves, and natural tissue planes. During the procedure, Dr. Cerrati works beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)—the muscular layer that controls facial expression—allowing him to reposition descended facial tissues as a unified structure rather than manipulating individual layers separately.
Unlike conventional facelifts that primarily tighten skin or even standard deep plane techniques that may release certain ligaments, the preservation approach carefully maintains key supporting structures while repositioning tissues to their more youthful elevation. This results in comprehensive rejuvenation of the midface, jawline, jowls, and neck while preserving the natural contours and movement patterns that make your face uniquely yours.
The technique requires exceptional surgical skill and an intimate understanding of facial anatomy. Dr. Cerrati’s fellowship training and extensive experience with advanced facelift techniques make him ideally suited to perform this sophisticated procedure, consistently achieving outcomes that appear natural and proportionate.
Common Reasons Patients Choose the Preservation Deep Plane Approach
Patients seeking facial rejuvenation today are increasingly discerning about their results. The preservation deep plane facelift appeals to individuals who want comprehensive improvement without the tell-tale signs of surgery. Common motivations include:
- Midface Volume Loss: Restoring cheek fullness and definition that has descended with age, creating a more youthful heart-shaped facial contour
- Jawline Definition: Eliminating jowls and recreating a smooth, defined jawline that enhances facial structure
- Natural-Looking Results: Achieving rejuvenation that maintains individual facial characteristics and expression rather than creating a generic or operated appearance
- Longevity of Outcomes: Investing in a technique known for producing results that can last 10-15 years, far exceeding conventional approaches
- Comprehensive Improvement: Addressing multiple aging concerns—from the lower eyelids to the neck—in a single procedure that treats the face as an integrated structure
Many patients choose this approach after researching facelift techniques and recognizing that preservation methods align with their desire for results that honor their natural appearance while delivering meaningful, long-lasting rejuvenation.
What to Expect from Your Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
Dr. Cerrati performs preservation deep plane facelifts with meticulous attention to both surgical technique and patient comfort. The procedure typically requires 4-6 hours under general anesthesia, depending on whether complementary procedures such as neck lifting, fat grafting, or eyelid surgery are combined for complete facial rejuvenation.
Incisions are strategically placed within the natural contours around the ears and hairline, designed to be virtually imperceptible once healed. Through these approaches, Dr. Cerrati accesses the deep facial tissues, carefully repositioning descended fat compartments, tightening the underlying muscular structure, and re-draping skin without tension. The preservation of key ligaments and anatomical structures ensures that facial expression remains natural and animated.
Most patients experience a surprisingly comfortable recovery, with many returning to social activities within 10-14 days. Dr. Cerrati’s refined surgical techniques minimize trauma to tissues, resulting in less swelling and bruising compared to traditional approaches. Patients can expect gradual improvement over several months as residual swelling subsides and tissues settle into their new position, with final results becoming apparent around the three to six-month mark.
“My patients consistently tell me they appreciate not just their results, but how natural the entire healing process feels,” notes Dr. Cerrati. “The preservation technique respects facial anatomy in a way that translates to easier recovery and more natural outcomes.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Preservation Deep Plane Facelift
The preservation technique maintains critical facial ligaments and tissue planes that traditional deep plane surgery may release or disrupt. This creates more natural facial contours and reduces the risk of an over-pulled or flattened appearance.
Most patients experience their most noticeable swelling during the first week, with many feeling comfortable in public settings by day 10-14. While you'll see immediate improvement, final results emerge over 3-6 months as tissues fully settle.
Preservation deep plane facelifts typically provide 10-15 years of rejuvenation, significantly longer than conventional techniques. While aging continues, many patients maintain substantial improvement for well over a decade.
Yes, Dr. Cerrati frequently combines preservation deep plane surgery with complementary procedures such as fat grafting, neck lifting, eyelid surgery, or brow lifting for comprehensive facial rejuvenation tailored to individual needs.
Ideal candidates are generally in their 40s through 70s with moderate to advanced facial aging, good skin elasticity, and realistic expectations. During your consultation, Dr. Cerrati will assess your facial structure and discuss whether this approach is optimal for your goals.
Dr. Cerrati is double board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery with fellowship training in advanced facelift techniques. He focuses exclusively on facial surgery and has published extensively on facial rejuvenation in peer-reviewed journals, establishing him as a recognized authority in preservation facelift methods.
Why Choose Dr. Eric Cerrati in Salt Lake City
Dr. Eric Cerrati brings unparalleled expertise to preservation deep plane facelift surgery. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with prestigious fellowship training, he has dedicated his entire practice to facial and neck procedures, developing the refined skills necessary for consistently outstanding results. His commitment to staying at the forefront of surgical innovation means patients benefit from the most advanced techniques available.
Patients travel from across the United States and internationally to experience Dr. Cerrati’s surgical artistry. His philosophy emphasizes natural results with no evidence of surgery—outcomes that reflect your best self rather than an obviously altered appearance. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications and more than 50 presentations at national and international meetings, Dr. Cerrati’s contributions to the field of facial plastic surgery are widely recognized.
Begin Your Facial Rejuvenation Journey in Park City
If you’re considering facial rejuvenation and want to explore whether the preservation deep plane facelift is right for you, contact Dr. Cerrati’s office in Park City. During your comprehensive consultation, Dr. Cerrati will assess your facial anatomy, listen carefully to your goals, and develop a personalized surgical plan designed to achieve the natural, long-lasting results you desire. Experience the difference that specialized expertise and advanced preservation techniques can make in your facial rejuvenation journey.






