Ten Tips for a Reliable and Predictable Deep Plane Facial Rhytidectomy

Abstract

Facial rhytidectomy surgery is a reconstructive/cosmetic procedure to restore anatomic changes to the lower third of the aging face and neck. It is a surgery of planes. Understanding safe dissection planes allows the surgeon to maximize his or her results in a reliable fashion.1,2 Facial rhytidectomy may also be considered a surgery of opportunity and compromise in which soft tissue dissection and redraping take advantage of the facial blood supply while predictable and desirable wound healing provide the rejuvenated appearance. Mastery of facial anatomy and the relationships of the superficial and deep facial layers, muscles, nerves, and vasculature are of paramount importance in performing rhytidectomy surgery safely, effectively, and with confidence.3,4 We have noted 10 areas in which attention to detail offers a predictable and reliable rhytidectomy procedure and avoids some of the stigmata of rhytidectomy surgery.5