Medically reviewed by Dr. Benjamin Eskenazi, MD, FACS | Last updated July 2026
At Avabello Aesthetics in Miami Beach, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Benjamin Eskenazi performs deep plane rhytidectomy, one of the most technically demanding techniques in face rejuvenation. Rather than simply tightening skin, Dr. Eskenazi releases the retaining ligaments of the face and repositions the deeper muscle and tissue layers beneath it, an approach that can provide longer-lasting results than traditional facelifts while preserving natural facial expression and movement.
Dr. Eskenazi trained at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation under department chairman Dr. James Zins and participated in the care of three face transplant patients. He has since performed more than 10,000 surgical procedures and led nearly 100 facial cadaver dissections, giving him the depth of anatomical expertise this technically demanding procedure requires.
I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Avabello Aesthetics and Dr. Eskenazi. From the prompt response to an appointment inquiry, ease of communication, transparency about services and pricing, my experience with the doctor, the gorgeous office, clean facilities, and sweet girl at the desk who checked me in and out, I couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful experience. Not to mention my fabulous results speak for themselves!
There are a ton of choices of med spas to go to, especially in Miami, but for those who know better, having the office closely managed and run by an actual *board-certified plastic surgeon* is the gold standard. I’ve been getting cosmetic treatments for over a decade and I am a physician myself, so I know entirely too much to trust just anybody to put needles into my face. I trust Dr. Eskenazi completely, and I trust the providers who work here because he has personally trained each and every one of them himself. He makes sure everyone in the office knows how to provide treatments not only safely, but to also ensure excellent results.
I mean it’s literally your face!! Don’t go just anywhere. Go to Avabello Aesthetics and you’ll see what I mean. 🙂
Common Reasons Patients Choose Deep Plane Surgery
Patients seek this advanced face rejuvenation technique to achieve superior results that traditional methods cannot provide:
Maximum Longevity
Results that can last a decade or more, longer than many traditional techniques
Natural Facial Movement
Preserved expression and animation without surgical appearance or tightness
Comprehensive Rejuvenation
Addresses multiple layers of aging for complete facial transformation and renewal
Superior Jowl Correction
A highly effective approach for correcting heavy jowls and restoring a more defined jawline
Advanced Neck Enhancement
Comprehensive improvement in neck contours and muscle band correction for elegant profile
Dr. Eskenazi’s Deep Plane Expertise
Dr. Eskenazi trained at the world-famous Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) in Cleveland, Ohio, where he built an extensive foundation in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. During his three years at CCF he participated in the care of three face transplant patients and learned the foundations of his facelift technique from internationally recognized facelift surgeon and department chairman Dr. James Zins. CCF is home to one of the most advanced cadaver facilities in the world, and Dr. Eskenazi was completely immersed in the operating room alongside renowned faculty while refining his skills through extensive cadaveric dissection. Prior to founding Avabello Aesthetics, he spent six years partnered with dermatologists and Mohs surgeons, performing thousands of reconstructive operations on every part of the face, and in the two years before opening Avabello he led nearly 100 facial cadaver dissections and trained more than 1,000 aesthetic practitioners in facial anatomy.
“The deep plane facelift represents the gold standard in face rejuvenation surgery. By working with deeper anatomical structures, we achieve results that not only look completely natural but also last significantly longer than traditional techniques. It’s precision surgery that honors facial anatomy.” — Dr. Benjamin Eskenazi
What Is Deep Plane Facelift Surgery?
Unlike traditional facelifts that lift only the skin or fold the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) layer, the extended deep plane facelift releases and repositions the deeper structures of the face — the facial ligaments and muscles themselves. This restores volume and contour to the midface, jowls, and neck with more durable, natural-looking results.
Dr. Eskenazi’s extended deep plane facelift uses incisions well camouflaged in the hairline and natural skin contours to leave an essentially imperceptible scar. He raises a composite flap of skin and muscle — working in the deep plane — because this technique allows for a more extensive, natural, and long-lasting re-elevation of the face. Working in the deep plane, he meticulously releases the zygomatic cutaneous ligaments, masseteric cutaneous ligaments, and mandibular cutaneous ligaments to allow for a complete re-suspension of the midface, all while respecting the danger zones of the face to prevent facial nerve injury. Based on each patient’s unique anatomy and goals, he customizes vertical and horizontal vectors of pull and uses suspension sutures to secure the elevated composite flap for the most natural and long-lasting result.
Dr. Eskenazi’s Customized Deep Plane Approach
Advanced Neck Contouring Customized to Your Anatomy
During his extended deep plane face and neck lift, Dr. Eskenazi uses a small incision hidden beneath the chin to access the anterior neck in the midline. Through this window he inspects both superficial and deep to the platysma muscle. Deep to the platysma, he can refine the digastric muscle and trim or remove the submandibular glands where necessary to enhance the final neck contour. Superficially, fat below the jawline is refined and the platysma muscle is tightened using a “corset platysmaplasty” technique. Together, these techniques create the sharp cervicomental angle and defined, angular jawline that so many patients want from a neck lift.
Dr. Eskenazi’s Facelift Philosophy
The pillars of Dr. Eskenazi’s facelift philosophy revolve around a few core principles:
- Respecting the danger zones of the face to minimize risk to the patient
- Complete release of the facial ligaments as part of his extended deep plane technique, allowing for a youthful re-suspension of the face
- Customized vectors of pull that complement the natural anatomy of each patient
- Opening the neck and refining the digastric muscles and submandibular glands when necessary for the best possible neck and jawline contour
- Simultaneous fat transfer to restore lost volume to the lifted face
Fat Transfer: The “Cherry on Top”
Every facelift and neck lift patient is evaluated for fat transfer during their consultation, and most of Dr. Eskenazi’s patients undergo some fat grafting to complement their lift. Fat fills hollows and softens deep creases in a way that complements facial lifting, adding volume back to the precise areas where it has been lost over time. Stem cells found in harvested fat also enhance skin quality, and for most patients fat transfer delays the need for follow-up filler treatments after surgery.
- Addresses facial aging at a structural level for results that can last a decade or more
- Rejuvenates the midface and cheeks, an area often neglected by traditional methods
- Repositions your own tissues, with no reliance on pulling skin tight
- Avoids the tight, overdone look associated with older techniques
- Smoother recovery thanks to reduced skin tension
Candidacy: Is Deep Plane Facelift Right for You?
Ideal candidates for deep plane face rejuvenation demonstrate significant signs of aging and desire the most comprehensive results available. Dr. Eskenazi carefully evaluates each patient to ensure optimal outcomes and surgical safety.
You may be an excellent candidate if you have:
Significant Facial Aging
Advanced jowling, deep nasolabial folds, and substantial skin laxity requiring comprehensive correction
Desire for Maximum Results
Seeking the most dramatic and long-lasting improvement available in face rejuvenation surgery
Excellent Health Status
Physical condition suitable for more extensive surgical procedures and longer operative times
Realistic Expectations Understanding
Appreciation for both the benefits and recovery requirements of this advanced surgical technique
Commitment to Recovery
Willingness to follow comprehensive post-operative protocols for optimal healing and superior results
Long-Term Aesthetic Investment
Desire for results that maintain satisfaction for decades rather than requiring frequent revisions
What to Expect During Your Deep Plane Procedure
Comprehensive Pre-Operative Preparation
Dr. Eskenazi and his team provide extensive pre-operative guidance specific to deep plane surgery. This includes detailed medical optimization, advanced imaging when indicated, specialized preparation protocols, and comprehensive education about the procedure and recovery process.
Advanced Surgical Procedure
Deep plane rhytidectomy is performed under general anesthesia in our state-of-the-art accredited facility:
- Strategic Incision Design: Precise placement along natural hairline and ear contours for completely invisible scarring and optimal access
- Deep Tissue Dissection: Expert navigation of deeper facial planes requiring advanced surgical skill and anatomical knowledge
- Structure Repositioning: Careful lifting and advancement of deeper tissues for comprehensive rejuvenation and natural appearance
- Meticulous Closure: Advanced layered closure techniques ensuring optimal healing and imperceptible scar formation
Enhanced Safety Protocols
All deep plane procedures benefit from Dr. Eskenazi’s advanced surgical training:
- Extended Monitoring: Comprehensive vital sign tracking throughout longer operative times with experienced anesthesia teams
- Advanced Hemostasis: Sophisticated bleeding control techniques minimizing post-operative complications and optimizing healing
- Sterile Technique: Hospital-grade protocols throughout the extended procedure ensuring infection prevention and patient safety
- Emergency Preparedness: Complete readiness for any surgical considerations with trained staff and advanced equipment
Recovery and Healing Excellence
Specialized Post-Operative Care
Dr. Eskenazi’s extensive reconstructive experience ensures optimal recovery management with protocols specifically designed for deep plane healing. Patients receive comprehensive support throughout the more extensive healing process.
Extended Recovery Timeline:
Professional Monitoring
Frequent follow-up appointments during critical healing phases with Dr. Eskenazi personally overseeing progress
Advanced Pain Management
Sophisticated comfort protocols managing the more extensive surgical recovery period
Activity Modification
Detailed guidelines for safe healing while protecting the deeper surgical repairs and tissue positioning
Specialized Wound Care
Expert incision management ensuring optimal healing and virtually invisible scar formation
Comprehensive Healing Process
Deep plane surgery requires extended healing with superior long-term outcomes:
- Week 1-3: Initial swelling and bruising resolution with careful monitoring of deeper tissue healing and surgical repair integrity
- Month 1-2: Gradual return to normal activities with continued improvement in facial contours and comfort levels
- Month 3-6: Significant aesthetic improvement becomes apparent with natural facial movement and expression returning to normal
- Month 6-12: Final results achieved with complete healing and optimal aesthetic outcome lasting for decades
Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Plane Facelift
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Traditional facelifts primarily tighten skin or fold the SMAS layer. Dr. Eskenazi’s extended deep plane technique instead releases the facial ligaments and repositions the deeper muscle and tissue layers as a composite unit, which produces a more natural, longer-lasting result and rejuvenates the midface, jowls, and neck together.
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By addressing facial aging at a structural level rather than simply tightening skin, a well-executed deep plane facelift can provide longer-lasting results than surface-level techniques while maintaining natural facial expression and movement. Every patient ages differently, so results vary.
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Dr. Eskenazi trained at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation under department chairman Dr. James Zins and participated in the care of three face transplant patients. He has since led nearly 100 facial cadaver dissections, trained more than 1,000 aesthetic practitioners, and performed more than 10,000 surgical procedures, giving him a rare depth of anatomical expertise for this technically demanding surgery.
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Yes, recovery is more extensive (3-4 weeks) compared to traditional methods, but the superior and longer-lasting results justify the additional healing time.
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Dr. Eskenazi’s advanced technique specifically preserves natural facial movement and expression, making results appear completely natural rather than “surgical.”
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Yes, it’s often combined with eyelid surgery, brow lifts, or fat grafting for comprehensive face rejuvenation tailored to your specific needs.
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It is a technique for tightening the platysma muscle of the neck in the midline, helping to create a smooth, defined neck contour and a crisp jawline.
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Incisions are camouflaged within the hairline and the natural contours of the skin to leave an essentially imperceptible scar.
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Deep plane facelift surgery involves working near delicate facial nerves. Dr. Eskenazi’s technique is built around respecting the “danger zones” of the face, and his extensive anatomical training and cadaver-lab experience are central to both safety and results.
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Most patients benefit from some fat grafting to restore volume lost with age. Fat fills hollows and softens creases in a way that complements the lift, and the stem cells in harvested fat can also improve skin quality. Dr. Eskenazi evaluates this during your consultation.
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Yes. Avabello cares for patients traveling from across the country, with concierge coordination of surgery, nursing, and recovery. Every surgical patient also goes home with Dr. Eskenazi’s direct cell phone number.
Premier Medical Spa Excellence in Miami Beach
Avabello Aesthetics represents a new standard in aesthetic medicine, where surgical expertise meets luxury wellness. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, our boutique medical spa operates under the direct oversight of double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Benjamin Eskenazi, ensuring every treatment benefits from the highest level of medical precision and safety.
Unlike traditional medspas, Avabello combines the sophistication of a luxury spa with the clinical excellence of a surgical practice. This unique approach delivers transformative results while maintaining the natural beauty and confidence that define our patients’ individual aesthetic goals.
“Beauty is deeply personal, and achieving your ideal look should be a journey guided by expertise, compassion, and innovation. Every treatment at Avabello reflects our commitment to enhancing your natural features through precise, individualized care.” — The Avabello Philosophy
About Dr. Benjamin EskenaziSchedule Your Deep Plane Consultation in Miami Beach
Discover the difference that advanced surgical technique and exceptional expertise make in face rejuvenation. Dr. Eskenazi’s mastery of deep plane methodology ensures the most comprehensive and long-lasting results available in facial plastic surgery.
Contact Avabello Aesthetics today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Benjamin Eskenazi and explore whether deep plane rhytidectomy is the optimal choice for achieving your aesthetic goals in Miami Beach.
