Deep plane style minilift

Introduction

What is a minilift? This is a general term that various surgeons interpret in different ways. The deep plane style minilift was developed for younger patients who do not yet show significant signs of skin aging to warrant a full deep plane facelift and neck lift. It primarily concerns individuals who desire improvement in the jawline and neck, without pronounced sagging of the midface or eyebrows.

The deep plane style minilift is based on the same principles as a traditional deep plane lift, but it is more limited in scope. This allows for a natural-looking result for a specific subset of patients, with a shorter recovery period and no risk of overcorrection.

When surgeons refer to a minilift, the term "mini" is often used to indicate that the procedure is less invasive than a full facelift. Many classic minilift techniques focus on the neck and jawline, with minimal impact on the cheeks. They may sometimes employ techniques such as SMAS lifting, but without deeper dissection.

It is important to note, however, that these less invasive approaches do not always provide long-lasting results. A minilift that uses deep plane techniques, such as the deep plane style minilift, combines limited invasiveness with greater durability of the results.

Dr. O. Beckers systematically applies deep plane techniques in both primary and revision facelifts, focusing on releasing the facial fixation structures. By freeing the deep ligaments of the face and repositioning the SMAS and platysma systems in a controlled manner, the natural facial structure can be restored.

The minilift provides refinement of the neck, sharper jawline definition, and improvement of the jaw angle. If necessary, the treatment can be supplemented with a submental approach for deep neck reduction, removing excess volume beneath the chin to further optimize the contour.

Where Care Meets Innovation – Elevating Facial Aesthetics

Recovery

The recovery process after a minilift varies depending on the techniques used and the individual response of the patient. Some typical aspects of the recovery process include:

Immediately after surgery: After the procedure, the face is wrapped to limit swelling and support healing. You will be monitored briefly in recovery before being sent home the same day.
Swelling and bruising: These are normal during the first two weeks and gradually subside.
Pain and discomfort: Some discomfort is expected. Dr. O. Beckers will prescribe pain relief medication if necessary.
Bandages and sutures: The bandage is usually removed the day after surgery. A soft facial bandage may be applied temporarily. Sutures are removed in stages: the netting after three days, sutures in front of the ear after one week, and sutures behind the ear and under the chin after two weeks.
Limited activity: During the first few weeks, it is important to avoid strenuous activity to ensure proper healing. Avoid bending over or lifting as well.
Scarring: Scars typically heal well and are barely noticeable over time. Scar care will be discussed individually with Dr. O. Beckers.

Follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal recovery and minimize risks. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s important to reach out in a timely manner.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential complications, although they are rare. Some risks mentioned in medical literature include:

Damage to the facial nerve, which may affect facial expressions
Infection or post-operative bleeding
Delayed wound healing, deep epithelialization, or in rare cases, partial skin necrosis
Suboptimal scar formation, despite correct technique and care

Open communication with Dr. O. Beckers about your expectations, concerns, and post-operative care is essential for a safe process and successful outcome.

Prices and contact

The costs for the various treatments depend on the duration of the operation and the complexity of the procedure. During a personal consultation with Dr. Olivier Beckers will provide you with a detailed explanation about the price of the specific treatment that is relevant to you. It is important to note that this treatment is not eligible for reimbursement by the RIZIV.

Our patient coordinator, Joa Christiaenssen, is ready to answer all your questions and provide you with the information you need. Whether it concerns scheduling a consultation, discussing treatment options, arranging administrative matters or planning an operation, Joa is ready to help you.

We strive to provide you with the best possible care and service and we look forward to supporting you on your path to positive change.

Frequently asked questions

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients experience only mild swelling and sensitivity after the procedure. Pain is usually well controlled with light painkillers.

When can I resume social or professional activities?

Most patients feel comfortable enough to resume social activities or work after 10 to 14 days, depending on the nature of their job and personal healing progress.

Who will guide me before and after the procedure?

Joa, Dr. O. Beckers' personal assistant, will support you throughout the entire process. She is available for any questions, coordinates post-operative care, and also manages the lymphatic drainage sessions to optimize your recovery.

How does the recovery and aftercare process work after my facial procedure with Dr. O. Beckers?

All our facial procedures – whether it’s a deep plane facelift, deep plane necklift, or deep plane style minilift – are performed at Dr. O. Beckers' private clinic in Hasselt. Your entire aftercare will also take place at this location. Here, the sutures will be removed, RED light therapy will be applied, and lymphatic drainage will be performed to optimize your recovery.

Additionally, every patient receives a personal phone number, allowing you to contact us anytime, day or night, for any questions or concerns. This way, we guide you safely, professionally, and personally throughout the entire recovery process.

Does Dr. O. Beckers treat international patients?

Yes, Dr. O. Beckers also treats international patients. All our facial procedures are performed at the private clinic in Hasselt, Belgium, and we ensure that international patients receive the same professional guidance and aftercare as Belgian patients. This includes services such as suture removal, RED light therapy, lymphatic drainage, and personal support via a direct phone number for any questions, both before and after the procedure.

Is swelling normal after my procedure, and does it affect the final result?

Yes, swelling is a completely normal response after any facial procedure. The degree of swelling can vary between patients and depending on the type of procedure, but it gradually decreases over the weeks following the surgery. Swelling does not affect the final result; the ultimate outcome will only be fully visible once the swelling has completely subsided.

Is the overnight stay included in the price of the proposal, and how does it proceed?

Yes, for our facial rejuvenation procedures, one overnight stay is included in the price of the proposal. You will stay at our private clinic in Hasselt, where you will be continuously monitored by our night nurse. During the night, the entire focus will be on your comfort and recovery, with someone available at all times should you need assistance. The next morning, Dr. O. Beckers will visit you personally for the first care check, after which you can continue your recovery at home.

For our international patients, Joa will arrange accommodation at a nearby B&B close to the clinic. You will then return regularly for check-ups, RED light therapy, scar laser treatments, and skin advice.

I have a question, who can I contact?

You can contact us at any time via info@deepplanefacelift.be or by phone at +32 471 73 14 65.

Is an online consultation possible?

Yes, an online consultation is certainly possible. However, please note that Dr. O. Beckers must have seen you in person at least once before any procedure can be scheduled.

When can I resume my daily activities?

Light activities can generally be resumed after 1 to 2 weeks. However, more strenuous physical exertion, bending, or lifting should be avoided for the first 2 to 3 weeks to prevent swelling and bruising. Post-operative care, such as lymphatic drainage and RED Light Therapy, will help support a faster and more comfortable recovery.

About Dr. Olivier Beckers

Dr. Olivier Beckers is a cranio-maxillofacial surgeon specializing in aesthetic facial surgery. He completed his medical education at the University of Leuven and further specialized in aesthetic facial surgery with a focus on facelifts. His extensive expertise includes both bone and soft tissue surgery, which are intricately connected in the face. This can be compared to a tent, where the fabric (soft tissues such as skin, fat, muscles, blood vessels, and nerves) and the tent poles (the bone) together form the entire structure.

Dr. Beckers has completed several recognized fellowships abroad and earned his accreditation in aesthetic facial surgery at the University of Lyon. He offers a full range of facelift techniques and other aesthetic treatments. Whether you are interested in eyelid surgery, brow lift, lip lift, mini-facelift, or deep plane facelift, Dr. Beckers is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Let's get in touch

We offer personalized treatment plans tailored precisely to your specific desires and needs. To discover how we can help bring out your best self, we invite you to schedule a no-obligation appointment where we can explore your options together.

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