Did You Get a Bargain-Basement Facelift?
Facelifts have surged in popularity, with a 60% increase in procedures between 2017 and 2023. Even more striking, a recent survey found that nearly 90% of facial plastic surgeons now claim to offer the deep-plane facelift—a technique that was virtually unknown just a few years ago.
The deep-plane facelift is celebrated for its ability to deliver natural, long-lasting results by releasing retaining ligaments in the midface and lifting tissues as a single, composite layer. This reduces tension on the skin and preserves youthful volume, setting it apart from earlier skin-only or SMAS facelifts.
But here’s the problem: is everyone truly a deep-plane expert?
The Problem: Is Everyone Really a Deep-Plane Expert?
While many surgeons now advertise the deep-plane technique, the truth is that few have the advanced training required to perform it safely and effectively.
A true deep-plane facelift demands:
• Years of residency and fellowship training
• Mentorship under experienced deep-plane surgeons
• Mastery of advanced facial anatomy and surgical judgment
Unfortunately, some patients fall victim to what’s been called a “bait-and-switch facelift crisis”—believing they received a deep-plane procedure, only to discover later it was a partial or traditional technique instead.
In high-demand markets like New York and Los Angeles, six-figure facelift prices are now common, further blurring the line between marketing hype and genuine expertise.
Why Technique Matters
When it comes to facelifts, skill and artistry matter more than buzzwords or price tags.
• A well-executed SMAS facelift can deliver beautiful results.
• A poorly executed deep-plane facelift can compromise safety and aesthetics.
The bottom line: a facelift is only as good as the surgeon performing it. True expertise comes from the ability to handle anatomical variations, adapt to intraoperative findings, and deliver tailored results—not from flashy advertising.
💡 Learn more about the Deep Plane Facelift and how it compares to other facelift techniques.
What Patients Can Do to Protect Themselves
If you’re considering a facelift, here’s how to make an informed choice:
🔎 Research credentials – Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized deep-plane training and proven experience.
📸 Review before-and-after photos – Look for transparency and results consistent with the deep-plane approach.
❓ Ask specific questions – For example: • “Do you release the retaining ligaments?”
• “Does your technique include deep-plane dissection of the midface?”
🤝 Prioritize trust and rapport – The right surgeon will be transparent about their comfort zone and align the procedure with your goals.
The Bottom Line: Expertise Over Advertising
The deep-plane facelift is one of the most powerful advancements in modern facial rejuvenation. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution—and it should never be chosen based on hype or price alone.
The real value lies in selecting a surgeon who brings:
• Technical mastery
• Surgical integrity
• An artistic eye for balance and proportionRemember: you’re not paying for a marketing label—you’re investing in the skill of the provider.
Dr. John Burns: Dallas’s Trusted Facelift Authority
When it comes to choosing a facelift surgeon you can trust, Dr. John L. Burns, Jr., MD stands at the forefront of the field.
• Board Certification & Leadership – Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery; President of the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute.
• Elite Recognition – Named by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons for facelifts and consistently recognized by D Magazine.
• Advanced Training – Graduated summa cum laude from UTMB, completed advanced fellowships including laser surgery at UT Southwestern, and continues to train future surgeons as a Clinical Instructor.
• Innovation & Artistry – Known for combining surgical precision with natural, timeless results tailored to each patient.
With over 25 years of experience and thousands of successful facelifts, Dr. Burns offers patients the assurance of expertise, safety, and artistry—not marketing-driven buzzwords.
Don’t settle for a bargain-basement promise. Trust your face to one of America’s most recognized facelift experts.
📞 Schedule your consultation with Dr. John Burns, MD, FACS—virtually or in person—and discover how advanced facelift techniques can restore your confidence with natural, lasting results.
Considering a Facelift?
Whether you’re exploring your first procedure or a revision, Dr. John Burns can help you navigate the options to achieve natural, lasting results.
📞 Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation with Dr. John Burns, MD, FACS — Dallas’s trusted facelift expert.
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