Affordable, World-Class Deep Plane Face Lifts – Performed in South Africa
Performed by an internationally-trained Plastic Surgeon in a safe, private setting
What is a Deep Plane Face Lift?
The Deep Plane Face Lift is a refined and advanced technique in facial rejuvenation surgery that focuses on lifting not just the skin but also the deeper layers of tissue, particularly the underlying muscle and connective tissue. Here’s a brief explanation based on the client’s request:
The Technique
The Deep Plane Face Lift is a more advanced and refined technique than the traditional facelift. It goes deeper beneath the skin to lift the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System), the deeper layer of the face, in its entirety.
Instead of just pulling the skin tighter, it works at a much deeper level, targeting the SMAS, a layer beneath the skin that supports your facial structure. By gently lifting and repositioning this deeper layer — along with some of the underlying fat and connective tissue — we are able to restore the natural contours of your face in a way that looks balanced, youthful, and completely unforced.
This technique is especially effective for areas like the cheeks, jawline, and neck, giving smoother, more lifted results that last longer. Because the skin isn’t pulled tightly, it also avoids that “done” look and helps scars heal discreetly.
The result? A fresher, more rested version of yourself – not a different face.
Comparison to Traditional SMAS Lifts
Traditional SMAS facelifts work by lifting the skin and some of the tissue underneath, but the lift tends to be more limited. Because much of the tension is placed on the skin itself, the results can sometimes look tight or less natural.
The Deep Plane facelift takes things a step further – instead of just pulling the skin, it carefully separates and repositions the SMAS layer together with the deeper muscle and connective tissue. This allows for a more comprehensive lift from within, giving smoother, more balanced results without that stretched appearance. By lifting the foundation rather than just the surface, the outcome is more natural and longer-lasting, with minimal tension on the skin.
Why It’s More Natural & Longer-Lasting
One of the standout advantages of the Deep Plane Face Lift is how long the results last. By lifting and repositioning the deeper structural layers of the face, and not just the skin, the procedure provides a much more stable and durable outcome. These deeper tissues are naturally stronger and more resistant to gravity, meaning they hold their new position far better over time than the skin alone ever could.
Because of this deeper, anatomical approach, patients often enjoy results that last 10 years or more, with a gradual and natural ageing process rather than an abrupt return of sagging. Unlike skin-only facelifts that can lose their effect relatively quickly, the Deep Plane technique allows your face to age in a more graceful and balanced way, maintaining soft contours and a youthful foundation for years to come
True Vertical Restore
True Vertical Restore is an advanced facelift technique designed to reverse facial ageing in a way that respects the natural anatomy of the face. Unlike traditional facelift methods that often pull the skin backwards toward the ears, True Vertical Restore repositions the deep facial tissues upward and vertically, in the direction they originally descended. This vertical vector closely mimics how the face naturally ages, with descent and volume loss in the midface, jawline, and neck, and offers a more authentic and harmonious rejuvenation.
The key to this technique is working beneath the surface, in the deep plane, where the facial ligaments, muscles, and connective tissues are released and lifted as a unit. By restoring the internal scaffolding of the face without creating tension on the skin, this method allows for a more natural, elegant result, avoiding the tell-tale signs of surgery such as pulled skin or distorted expression. Patients look refreshed, not different, and the changes are often described as subtle yet transformative.
Prof Chrysis Sofianos
Prof. Chrysis Sofianos is a South African and UK-trained plastic surgeon based in Johannesburg who specialises in the true deep plane facelift, a highly advanced surgical technique that lifts the deeper structural layers of the face for natural, long-lasting results.
This method goes beyond traditional facelifts by addressing the root causes of facial ageing beneath the skin. Prof. Sofianos refined his deep plane dissection skills through internationally recognised aesthetic surgery fellowships, ensuring every procedure is performed with exceptional precision, safety, and artistry. His patients benefit from world-class surgical standards while enjoying the cost advantages of having their facelift abroad in South Africa.
Patients travelling from the UK or Europe for a deep plane facelift in Johannesburg can expect a personalised experience and beautiful, balanced outcomes.
Table of Contents
- 1. What is a Deep Plane Face Lift?
- 2. The Technique
- 3. Comparison to Traditional SMAS Lifts
- 4. Why It’s More Natural & Longer-Lasting
- 5. True Vertical Restoration
- 6. Prof Chrysis Sofianos
Ready to rejuvenate your appearance and restore your confidence? Contact Prof Chrysis Sofianos Plastic Surgery Johannesburg today to schedule a consultation and learn how a facelift can help you look and feel your best.
Why Choose Us?
Prof Chrysis Sofianos brings years of experience and expertise in facial rejuvenation procedures. Known for his precision and commitment to patient care, he ensures each facelift is tailored to deliver harmonious, natural-looking results that enhance your confidence.
- ➥ Cost-effective without compromising quality
- ➥ English-speaking, and internationally trained
- ➥ Short waitlists, confidential recovery, excellent infrastructure
- ➥ Ideal recovery weather and setting


Timeline and Steps
A comprehensive journey designed for your safety, comfort, and optimal healing
Initial Online Photo Review for £50
Get started at any time with the initial review
Online Consultation for £100
Meet Prof Sofianos and plan your surgery online
Preoperative Investigations
Blood tests and Chest X-ray on Arrival
Surgery
Safe, tailored surgery in Johannesburg, South Africa
Postoperative Care
Days 10-12
Discharge after An Overnight Stay
Stitches Removed at Day 7
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at Day 10
Safe to fly home
Cleared for return travel after day 12-14





Important Timeline Notes:
-
➥ Stitches are typically removed on Day 7-10 for optimal scarring
➥ Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is performed on Day 10 - ➥ Day 12-14 represent the safest time for air travel if healing is acceptable
- ➥ Recovery timeline may vary slightly based on individual healing progress
Initial Costs
STEP 1
Online Photo Review
£50
The first step in your journey is our Online Photo Review, a convenient way to receive personalised pricing from Prof. Sofianos before booking your virtual consultation. By submitting a short medical history and clear photographs, you’ll receive a detailed email outlining whether you’re a good candidate for a deep plane facelift, along with pricing.
STEP 2
Virtual Consultation
£100
The second step is a Virtual Consultation with Prof. Sofianos, conducted securely via Zoom. This consultation allows you to discuss your goals, expectations, and travel timeline. It’s an excellent opportunity to establish a connection with your surgeon and feel confident about the process before committing to surgery abroad. The cost of the virtual consultation is £100.
Procedure Pricing
Transparent pricing in GBP and EUR. All procedures include comprehensive care.
Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift
GBP £12,000
EUR €14,000
Advanced facelift technique for natural, long-lasting results
- Surgical Team
- Anaesthetist
- Hospital and Facility Fee
- Post-op care
Mini Face Lift
GBP £8,500
EUR €9,800
Targeted lift for younger patients with minimal scarring
- Surgical Team
- Anaesthetist
- Hospital and Facility Fee
- Post-op care
Adjunctive Procedures
from GBP £1,500
from EUR €1,700
Other procedures can be combined with your face lift
- Blepharoplasty
- Brow Lift
- Lip Lift
- Fat Grafting
Meet Prof Chrysis Sofianos
Prof Sofianos is a UK- and South Africa–trained academic Plastic Surgeon with a special interest in advanced facial rejuvenation techniques.
- Fellowship trained
- Head of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Wits University, Johannesburg
- Performs high-volume deep plane face lifts, neck lifts, and revision facial surgery
- Known for combining surgical precision with a calm, compassionate bedside manner
“I believe in delivering natural results using proven international techniques, supported by a recovery process that prioritises safety, comfort and dignity.”
International Fellowships
Advanced training in facial plastic surgery
Academic Appointment
Head of Division at the University of the Witwatersrand
High-Volume Practice
Specialised in advanced facelift techniques


South Africa’s Private Healthcare System
Experience world-class medical care in state-of-the-art facilities that rival the best international standards, at a fraction of the cost.
ISO-Certified Hospitals
All procedures performed in internationally accredited facilities meeting the highest safety standards.
ICU Access & Safety
Immediate access to intensive care units and emergency medical services for complete peace of mind.
Regulated Practice
Strict plastic surgery regulation ensures all practitioners meet rigorous qualification requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Healthcare focuses on maintaining well-being, while surgery involves medical procedures to treat or correct health issues
Do I need a visa?
Most international travellers (EU, UK, US, Australia) receive a 90-day visa on arrival. We can guide you if you’re unsure.
Will I need drains?
In most cases, yes – a drain is placed for 1–2 days post-surgery and removed prior to discharge.
Can I combine this with a neck lift or blepharoplasty?
Yes – combination procedures are common. A virtual consult can determine if this is safe and suitable for you.
Can I fly alone?
Yes – we recommend you have someone accompany you for the first 24 hours, but solo travel is common. We can arrange companion nursing if required.
Do you offer aftercare back home?
We provide a detailed handover letter. Most patients do not require in-person follow-up once healed and can follow-up remotely.
Ready to Get Started?
Get in touch with us today. Choose your preferred way to connect and let’s discuss how we can help you achieve your goals.
Instant WhatsApp Contact
Get rapid responses to your questions via WhatsApp.
Step 1: Online Photo Review
Start your journey online now
Step 2: Book Virtual Consultation
Schedule online with Prof Sofianos