Best plastic surgeon for a facelift in Atlanta, GA

Our surgeons are among the few in the Southeast to specialize in the deep plane facelift. The deep plane facelift is an advanced facial rejuvenation procedure that addresses the visible signs of aging by lifting and repositioning deeper facial structures, rather than just tightening the skin. This technique is designed to restore youthful contours with the most natural and long-lasting results. Unlike traditional facelifts that primarily pull the skin, the deep plane approach targets the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the deeper fat pads beneath it. By releasing key ligaments and lifting the midface, jowls, and neck as a single unit, this technique allows for more significant yet natural improvement in facial volume and definition—particularly in the cheek and jawline areas.

Compared to most traditional facelifts, patients who opt for a deep-plane facelift experience a wealth of benefits, including:

A more natural-looking and balanced lift of the entire face
Smoothed lines around the nose, mouth, and eyes
Restored volume to cheeks and overall facial fullness
Improved healing and recovery, reduce scarring
Reduced risk of need for revision surgery
Improved appearance of jawline, neck, and cheekbones

Is the deep plane facelift right for you?

A deep plane facelift is a powerful option for individuals in their 40s to 70s who are starting to notice sagging in the cheeks, jawline, or neck. If you’re looking for a more lifted, youthful look that still feels like you, this approach can offer beautifully natural facelift results.

To be a good candidate, you should be in generally good health and not actively smoking. Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications, so we recommend quitting well in advance if you're considering surgery.

If you’ve had other facial treatments—like Ultherapy, radiofrequency, or lifting threads—you may still be eligible. However, those procedures can leave behind internal scar tissue that might make surgery more complex. That’s why experience matters.

Our surgeons, especially Dr. Mackay, who is fellowship-trained in craniofacial surgery, specialize in advanced facial rejuvenation. Whether this is your first procedure or you're coming in for a revision, our team uses expert techniques to carefully release and reposition deeper tissues for a smooth, refreshed look.

Expectations for the Procedure and recovery

A deep plane facelift is performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation and typically takes 4 to 6 hours. Incisions are carefully placed within the natural creases around the ears and along the hairline, allowing for discreet healing. Through these incisions, the deeper layers of facial tissue are gently released and repositioned to restore youthful contours. Unlike traditional facelifts that rely on skin tightening alone, the deep plane technique avoids a pulled or artificial look—resulting in a soft, natural, and elegant appearance.

This procedure is often complemented by a neck lift, upper or lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or a brow lift when needed for full facial harmony. Our facelifts are performed in state-of-the-art surgical centers affiliated with Northside Hospital, combining the comfort and privacy of an outpatient suite with the safety and resources of a top-tier hospital. For optimal recovery, we typically recommend an overnight stay in the observation unit, where experienced nursing staff provide attentive care and monitoring during the critical first night after surgery.

Swelling and bruising peak within the first week and improve over 2–3 weeks. Most patients return to work and social activities within 2–3 weeks. Final results continue to refine over several months as swelling resolves.

Long term expectations after a deep plane facelift

A deep plane facelift offers one of the most comprehensive and long-lasting facial rejuvenation procedures available. Because it lifts and repositions the deeper structural layers of the face—not just the skin—the results are more natural, durable, and age-defying compared to traditional facelift techniques. Most patients enjoy their results for 10–15 years, depending on genetics, skin quality, and lifestyle habits. Aging will, of course, continue, but you will always look younger than if you had never had the procedure.

What to Expect Over Time

Immediate Post-Operative Period (0–3 months):
Swelling and bruising gradually subside, and the final contours begin to take shape. Most patients return to public-facing roles or events within 2–4 weeks.
Short-Term (3–12 months):
Incision lines fade and facial tissues settle into their rejuvenated positions. Natural collagen remodeling continues, enhancing skin tone and texture.
Long-Term (1 year+):
The lifted facial contours remain stable, although natural aging of the skin and soft tissues resumes

Noninvasive Procedures to Extend and Enhance Results

While a facelift effectively resets the aging clock, noninvasive treatments can help slow its progression. Much like maintaining a home or vehicle, consistent care and upkeep are essential for preserving your refreshed appearance. We partner with our patients to develop personalized, long-term maintenance plans that may include:

Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Daxxify) -Relax dynamic wrinkles and prevent deep creases from forming in the forehead, around the eyes, and between the brows
Dermal Fillers -Restore volume to areas like the temples, cheeks, and lips as natural fat continues to diminish with age
Microneedling - Boost collagen and improve skin texture and firmness
Laser Treatments -Address sun damage, pigmentation, and fine lines, helping skin appear smoother and more radiant
Medical-Grade Skincare -Consistent at-home regimens with retinoids, antioxidants, and sun protection help preserve results
Lifestyle Considerations - To maintain your facelift results as long as possible, we recommend:

Avoiding smoking and minimizing alcohol intake
Protecting your skin with daily sunscreen
Staying hydrated and following a healthy diet
Improved healing and recovery, reduce scarring
Managing stress and prioritizing sleep
Maintaining a stable weight

Why choose our team?

Our surgeons specialize in facial anatomy and use the deep plane technique to provide refined, customized outcomes for each patient. We prioritize facial harmony and long-term beauty—never overdone or artificial. From consultation through recovery, your experience is guided by attention to detail, artistic vision, and a commitment to surgical excellence.