Included: Facelift with Deep Plane Necklift
Price: $19,000-$25,000 (includes other complimentary services)
Procedure Time: 4 hours
Recovery Time: 2-3 weeks
Introduction
Deep Plane Facelift
At Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, AL, we specialize in the Deep Plane Facelift—a next-generation technique that rejuvenates the face by lifting the deeper supporting tissues, not just the skin. This creates a natural, longer-lasting result with a smooth, youthful contour.
Our practice is led by Dr. Blake Raggio, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon with an exclusive focus on facial cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Patients from Birmingham, Hoover, Huntsville, Montgomery, Atlanta, Nashville, and the surrounding communities trust Dr. Raggio for his refined surgical skill, artistic eye, and personalized care.
Facelift Expert in Birmingham, AL
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A Deep Plane Facelift is the most advanced approach in modern facelift surgery. Unlike traditional facelifts that simply pull the skin tighter, this method lifts and repositions the muscles, ligaments, and fat pads beneath the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). The result is a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the cheeks, jawline, and neck, with minimal skin tension and no “overdone” look.
By releasing facial retaining ligaments and resuspending soft tissue in its natural vector, this procedure:
- Restores midface volume
- Defines the jawline and neckline
- Softens nasolabial folds and jowls
- Achieves a refreshed, elegant appearance that ages gracefully
Deep Plane Facelift
Before & After Results
Photo Gallery
Before
AfterIntroducing the PreservaLift™ – Dr. Raggio’s Signature Deep Plane Approach
Over years of specialized facial training at LSU, Tulane, and the University of Toronto, Dr. Raggio mastered the Deep Plane Facelift as it gained recognition as the gold standard in facial rejuvenation. Since then, several years into private practice, he has refined and perfected his own proprietary technique—the PreservaLift™.
Dr. Raggio’s innovative facelift protocol, a preservation extended release deep plane facelift and structural necklift approach, enhances the traditional deep plane technique by:
- Utilizing a vertical vector suspension to reverse gravitational descent
- Implemented an extended release of the lateral neck structures
- Performing a deep structural necklift rejuvenation of the midline neck compartment
- Combining stem-cell-rich autologous fat grafting and nano fat to volumize and enhance healing
- Prioritizing skin preservation and gentle dissection to reduce bruising and swelling
- Applying platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) for less bruising
- Avoiding general anesthesia in favor of deep IV sedation
- Offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy to accelerate recovery
Dr. Raggio’s peer-reviewed work on the Deep Plane Facelift further demonstrates his expertise and commitment to surgical excellence (see publication).
The PreservaLift™ at Raggio MD: A preservation extended release deep-plane facelift and structural necklift approach that “preserves” the skin (green) by entering the deep plane at a point (yellow) more lateral to the traditional deep-plane incision route (blue). Key features include carefully placed incisions (red), “extended” deep-plane dissection below the jawline (yellow), a release of key facial ligaments (black X), targeted deep structural neck work (red circle), and a vertical vector of lift (purple arrow) for natural, long-lasting rejuvenation. Autologous fat grafting is also a key component of this technique, though not pictured here.
What Are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?
Patients who undergo a Deep Plane Facelift at Raggio MD experience transformative benefits:
- Natural, lifted results without a “pulled” appearance
- Long-lasting rejuvenation—typically 10+ years
- Volume restoration in the cheeks and midface
- Refined definition of the jawline and neck
- Smoother skin and improved facial contour
- Minimal visible scarring with discreet incision placement
This is the best deep plane facelift technique available today, and when performed by a skilled facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Raggio, the results are as subtle as they are striking.
Who Are the Best Candidates for a Deep Plane Facelift?
You may be an ideal candidate if you’re experiencing:
- Sagging cheeks or jowls
- Deep facial folds (nasolabial or marionette lines)
- Neck laxity or visible banding
- Loss of jawline or cheek definition
- A desire for long-term rejuvenation that looks natural
Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. Dr. Raggio will tailor a surgical plan to your facial structure, goals, and lifestyle.
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Dr. Raggio is an exceptional plastic surgeon!
First steps of a Deep Plane Facelift
What’s the First Step to scheduling a facelift?
Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Blake Raggio. During this private visit, he will:
- Analyze your facial anatomy and aging patterns
- Discuss your aesthetic goals in detail
- Recommend whether a Deep Plane Facelift, or PreservaLift™, is right for you
- Create a customized surgical plan with optional enhancements (blepharoplasty, brow lift, fat grafting, etc.)
Call our office or use the online form to request your consultation at Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery.
Will I need Medical Clearance before deep plane facelift surgery?
At Raggio MD, your safety isn’t just a priority—it’s built into every step of your surgical journey. One of the ways we set ourselves apart is through our in-house medical optimization program led by our dedicated nurse practitioner (CRNP).
Before surgery, every patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
- Vital lab testing
- Cardiovascular and metabolic screening
- Medication review and clearance protocols
- Preoperative skincare planning to enhance healing
This integrated approach ensures you’re in the best possible condition for surgery—physically, metabolically, and emotionally. It also reduces surgical risk, minimizes delays, and supports a smoother recovery.
You won’t need to navigate outside clinics or coordinate care—we manage everything under one roof, with the same trusted team guiding you from consultation to full recovery.
What to Expect on the Day of Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
Surgery is performed at our AAAASF-accredited surgical suite in downtown Homewood, Birmingham, using deep IV sedation—a safer, more comfortable alternative to general anesthesia.
Dr. Raggio employs:
- Discreet incisions around the ears and hairline
- Meticulous deep plane dissection to reposition underlying structures
- Tissue-sparing techniques that preserve blood supply and reduce trauma
The surgery lasts several hours and may include adjunct procedures. Our team provides concierge-level support every step of the way.
Advanced Recovery with
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) treatment
As part of our advanced recovery protocol, Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery offers complimentary Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) treatment to patients who undergo facial plastic surgery here in Birmingham, AL.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases the delivery of oxygen to parts of your body in the process of healing, speeding the process and improving its effectiveness, while reducing swelling and bruising. This process also helps to increase your body’s capacity to neutralize the damage caused by oxidative stress and the presence of free radicals, allowing your cells to function more efficiently and heal your body at a much faster rate.
Please understand that not all hyperbaric chambers are created equal. Normal atmospheric pressure is measured at approximately 1 atm, and most commercial chambers can only reach a pressure of 1.4 atm. At Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery, we use a state-of-the-art “hard” chamber that can reach up to an industry-standard pressurization of 2.0 atm required to affect the physiologic benefits of HBOT.
The higher capabilities of these rigid hyperbaric chambers allow for a more significant health benefit than simpler models, meaning your recovery will be optimized to its fullest.
Deep Plane Facelift Recovery
- Initial swelling and bruising: 7–14 days
- Return to work or social events: 2–3 weeks
- Final results: visible at 4–6 months, with continued refinement over time
To support your healing and enhance your overall recovery, we incorporate:
- Long-acting nerve blocks for comfort
- Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Optional hyperbaric oxygen therapy to optimize recovery
Dr. Raggio and our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and follow-ups to ensure a smooth, safe healing process.
How Much Does a Deep Plane Facelift Cost in Birmingham, AL?
The average investment ranges from $18,000–$25,000, depending on complexity and whether other procedures are included.
Pricing includes:
- Dr. Raggio’s surgical expertise
- Deep IV sedation with a certified anesthesia provider
- Facility costs for ancillary services, support staff, and supplies
- All pre- and post-operative care visits, wound care, and garments.
- Optional procedures (fat grafting, eyelid surgery, etc.) may be included at bundled pricing
Financing options may be available to qualified patients.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Raggio?
When it comes to your face, expertise matters. Patients across the Southeast choose Dr. Raggio for his unique blend of elite training, surgical artistry, and compassionate, concierge-level care.
- Double Board-Certified in Head & Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
- Trained at LSU, Tulane, and the University of Toronto with an advanced fellowship in cosmetic facial plastic surgery
- Published author on the deep plane facelift in a peer-reviewed surgical reference (view publication)
- Performs only facial procedures—no body surgery—ensuring unmatched specialization
- Trusted by patients from Birmingham, Hoover, Huntsville, Montgomery, Atlanta, Nashville, and beyond
- Known for his artistic eye, meticulous technique, and natural-looking results
- Over 350 five-star Google reviews from real patients
- Voted: “River Region’s Best Plastic Surgeon,” “Homewood’s Best Doctor,” and ” One of Birmingham’s Top Plastic Surgeons” by About Town Magazine
At Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery, every detail reflects our commitment to excellence, safety, and personalized rejuvenation.
Contact us
Schedule a consultation
If you’re considering a Deep Plane Facelift in Birmingham, AL, schedule a consultation with Dr. Raggio to explore whether a Deep Plane Facelift or PreservaLift™ is right for you.
Call us today or Request Your Consultation Online
