Not every surgeon makes the deep plane facelift their exclusive approach. The technique demands a deeper command of facial anatomy and years of dedicated practice to execute well. At Westside Plastic Surgery, it has become Dr. James D. Goggin's primary technique for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. The structural depth it reaches produces more durable, natural-looking results than surface-level correction can achieve on its own. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and fellowship-trained in aesthetic surgery, Dr. Goggin built this practice on a clear principle: when a better technique exists, it becomes the baseline.
This blog breaks down what distinguishes the deep plane approach, who tends to benefit most, and what the experience looks like from consultation to recovery.
The Layer That Changes Everything
Most facelift techniques address the SMAS, a fibromuscular layer beneath the skin, by tightening or folding it in place. Without releasing the retaining ligaments that anchor the facial tissues to deeper structures, there is a ceiling on how far those tissues can move. Some of the lift's tension transfers to the skin, and as skin stretches over time, results fade.
The deep plane technique addresses those anchors directly. Dr. Goggin works below the SMAS to release the retaining ligaments, then repositions the deeper tissue layer as a unit. Because those anchors are released rather than worked against, the skin does not carry the load of the lift. The result holds more reliably, and the face moves naturally.
Patients who choose this approach often see:
- A more natural outcome: No pulled or taut appearance because the skin isn't doing the structural work
- Longer-lasting results: Deep structural lifting can produce outcomes that last a decade or more
- Comprehensive correction: Sagging in the cheeks, midface, jawline, and neck addressed in a single procedure
- Preserved expression: Facial animation stays intact, so results look like a refreshed version of you
What the Procedure and Recovery Look Like
The surgery is performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia and typically takes several hours. Incisions follow the natural creases around the ears and into the hairline, with placement designed to minimize visible evidence of the procedure. Dr. Goggin accesses the deeper tissue through those entry points, releases the retaining structures, repositions them, and carefully redrapes the skin without tension.
Swelling and bruising resolve within one to two weeks for most patients. Social and professional activity typically resumes around the three-to-four-week mark, with strenuous exercise avoided for at least six weeks. Final results develop over the following months as tissue settles into its new position.
Some patients also choose to combine their facelift with eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or neck contouring for a more complete outcome.
Deep Plane Expertise in Fort Worth: Dr. Goggin, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Making the deep plane facelift a practice standard requires the training and clinical experience to deliver it consistently. Dr. Goggin brings both to every procedure at Westside Plastic Surgery, with an approach to care that holds results to a high standard and backs every case with attentive follow-up. If you're exploring facelift options in Fort Worth, schedule a consultation to discuss whether this approach is the right fit for you.
