The most comprehensive facial rejuvenation available — repositioning the structural foundation of the face for results that look natural and last a decade or more. Available wide-awake under local anesthesia.
✓ Medically reviewed by Dr. Andre Y. Levesque, MD · Board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) · Last reviewed September 18, 2025
A deep plane facelift — also called a rhytidectomy — is the most advanced form of surgical facial rejuvenation available. Unlike a traditional or mini facelift, which only tightens the overlying skin, the deep plane technique releases and repositions the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the ligaments that anchor the face's soft tissues to the underlying bone.
This structural repositioning is why deep plane results look naturally refreshed rather than tight or "pulled." The face isn't stretched — it's lifted back to where it was a decade or two ago. Jowls, deep nasolabial folds, midface descent, and neck laxity are addressed simultaneously in a single, comprehensive procedure.
Dr. Andre Y. Levesque performs the deep plane facelift in Austin, TX, including his signature wide-awake technique under local anesthesia — avoiding the risks and recovery burden of general anesthesia while delivering the same comprehensive structural result. This approach is not widely offered and reflects Dr. Levesque's advanced training and experience.
Results typically last 10–15 years. Most patients describe looking like a naturally younger version of themselves, not like they had surgery.
Many surgeons perform some variation of a facelift. Fewer perform the true deep plane. Dr. Levesque has dedicated his practice to mastering the procedure that produces the most natural, lasting results — and to offering it in a way that minimizes risk and maximizes comfort for his patients.
His wide-awake facelift — performed entirely under local anesthesia — is offered to most candidates and is a genuine advance in patient safety and recovery. Patients describe a surprisingly comfortable experience and return to light activity faster than those who undergo general anesthesia.
From your first consultation to your final result, here's how the process works at Levesque Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Levesque meets with you personally to evaluate your anatomy, review your goals, and discuss whether the deep plane facelift — or a combination with neck lift, fat grafting, or eyelid surgery — is right for you. Private and no-pressure.
Performed in our private Austin surgical suite, wide-awake under local anesthesia with oral sedation — no IV sedation, no general anesthesia. The procedure takes 3–5 hours. You'll go home the same day with a caregiver and detailed post-op instructions.
Most patients are comfortable at home for 10–14 days. Bruising and swelling peak around days 3–5 and resolve within 2 weeks. Most patients are socially presentable at 2–3 weeks. Final, settled results are visible at 3–6 months.
All photos are of Dr. Levesque's own patients, presented with permission. Hover each result to reveal the after; select any case for the full set of views and details.
The deep plane facelift is a significant procedure that produces significant results. Here's a general guide — Dr. Levesque will assess your candidacy personally at consultation.
The cost of a deep plane facelift at Levesque Plastic Surgery varies based on the complexity of your anatomy, any combination procedures (neck lift, fat grafting, eyelid surgery), and surgical time required.
Dr. Levesque provides a detailed, transparent quote at your consultation — there are no surprise fees. The fee covers surgeon, facility, and anesthesia.
We believe price transparency matters. After your consultation, you will receive a complete itemized quote before making any decisions.
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Dr. Levesque believes that the best facial surgery is surgery no one can detect. His focus on the deep plane technique stems from a conviction that lasting, natural results require working at the structural level of the face — not just tightening skin. He performs every surgery personally, without delegation to residents or assistants.
His wide-awake facelift — offered to most candidates — reflects a commitment to minimizing unnecessary risk and maximizing recovery comfort. Most of his facelift patients return to social activity within two to three weeks.
Schedule with Dr. LevesqueConsultations are with Dr. Levesque, personally. Fill out the form below and our team will contact you within one business day.
