DEEP PLANE FACELIFT · Gangnam, Seoul
Dr. Ryu’s
DEEP PLANE FACELIFT
in Seoul
4–5 hours under IV sedation · no hospitalization · 7–10 days of recovery in Korea · English-speaking consultants
The procedure
What is a DEEP PLANE FACELIFT?
Dr. Ryu’s DEEP PLANE FACELIFT technique lies in the precise release of the Retaining Ligaments within the sub-SMAS plane, effectively addressing sagging in the anterior face and supporting stable, natural-looking lifting results.
Dr. Ryu’s DEEP PLANE FACELIFT
Five core concepts.
- Release of Retaining Ligaments
- High SMAS Concept
- Extended Deep Plane Facelift
- Preservation of the Composite (Skin-SMAS) Flap
- Buccal Fat Repositioning
Key concepts
Key Concepts & Unique Characteristics of Dr. Ryu’s DEEP PLANE FACELIFT
01
Release of Retaining Ligaments
Sufficient release of the zygomatic and masseteric retaining ligaments in the sub-SMAS plane. Dr. Ryu considers this one of the fundamental principles of Deep Plane Facelift, as these ligaments tether the superficial tissues and must be adequately released to effectively improve sagging of the anterior face.
02
High SMAS Concept
The High SMAS concept is incorporated to provide more controlled lifting vectors and improve the midface and lower face. In particular, it allows an independent vertical lifting vector, which can provide more effective midface elevation while allowing the surgical design to be adapted to the patient’s individual facial anatomy.
03
Extended Deep Plane Facelift
When necessary, the Deep Plane dissection is extended to include the release of the cervical retaining ligaments, allowing more comprehensive correction of the lower face and neck.
04
Preservation of the Composite (Skin-SMAS) Flap
The natural attachment between the skin and SMAS is preserved as much as possible while minimizing unnecessary skin dissection. The actual lifting and fixation are performed through the SMAS flap rather than by placing excessive tension on the skin. This helps preserve circulation, minimize surgical trauma, and support a natural result and favorable recovery.
05
Buccal Fat Repositioning
Rather than routinely removing buccal fat, Dr. Ryu focuses on repositioning the buccal fat when indicated, helping improve the descended tissues while avoiding unnecessary loss of facial volume and potential hollowing of the cheeks.
Not sure whether a facelift,
a neck lift, or both is right for you?
The facelift targets the sagging in the cheeks, while the neck lift targets the sagging of the jowls and jawline. You can freely choose to do one without the other, and whether both are needed together for facial harmony is decided at your consultation. Our English-speaking consultants will walk you through the options before you travel.
Procedure details
Operation and anesthesia
Surgery Duration4–5 hours
AnesthesiaIV sedation
Hospitalization RequiredNo
DrainYes
Compression Garment3–5 days (5–7 days with a neck lift)
Stitch Removal7th day
Recovery timeline
What happens on each day after surgery
Day 1
Shampoo, Dressing, Antibiotic shot
Day 2
Dressing
Day 3
Shampoo, Short drain removal, dressing
Day 4
Dressing
Day 5
Shampoo, Medium/Long Drain removal, Dressing, Hemostatic Net, 70-80% Stitch out on front ear and neck
Day 6
Dressing
Day 7
Full stitch out on earlobes and fat graft
Recovery differs from person to person. Swelling usually peaks on the 3rd day post-op and slowly goes away, while bruising can take up to 3 to 4 weeks. The complete final result can be expected around 6 months post-operation.
Post-operative recovery care
Care provided during your stay
During your recovery period of 7-10 days, post-operative treatments and check-ups will be provided for you daily. This includes Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Healite LED therapy treatments, and personal evaluations by Dr. Ryu.
Hyperbaric Oxygen TherapyEnhances oxygen delivery to body tissues, supporting tissue repair and the body’s natural healing process during postoperative recovery.
Healite Regenerative TreatmentUses advanced LED light technology to support skin healing and help reduce postoperative swelling, bruising, and inflammation, promoting a smoother, more comfortable recovery.
Shampoo service, curated meals, lobby amenities, terrace usage. Visa invitation letter provided upon request.
What the quoted fee covers
Included and not included
Included
- Anesthesiology fees
- Postoperative care, including HBOT and Healite treatments
- Complimentary hair washing service (typically up to three sessions)
- Airport-to-hotel transportation service (arrival and departure) upon deposit confirmation
Not included
- Hotel accommodation costs
- Preoperative medical examination and laboratory testing fees
- Postoperative prescription medication costs
- Personal transportation expenses during your stay in Korea
The final amount is confirmed after examination and consultation. There are no official promotions or discounts offered at the moment.
Common questions
Before you travel (FAQ)
What is the difference between SMAS and DEEP PLANE FACELIFT?
The key difference is that, while both procedures address the SMAS layer, the SMAS lift provides a more limited lift as the zygomatic and masseteric retaining ligaments are not completely released, leaving some anterior facial sagging uncorrected. You can find more about this on Dr. Ryu’s official YouTube channel.
How long do you have to stay in Korea (recovery period)?
It’s generally recommended to stay in Korea only for about 7 to 10 days for recovery.
Who is Dr. Ryu?
Dr. Min-Hee Ryu is a FACELIFT specialist and educator dedicated to advancing the field of Facial Rejuvenation surgery. As an invited lecturer, tutor, and live surgery demonstrator, he has shared his expertise in DEEP PLANE FACELIFT and facial anatomy across more than 15 countries. His academic appointments include Faculty Member at MAFAC since 2016, Guest Faculty Member at Mayo Clinic since 2023, and Editorial Board Member of the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal (SCI) since 2019. He is also an active member of KSPRS, ASPS, ASAPS, and ISAPS.
What is Dr. Ryu’s DEEP PLANE FACELIFT?
Dr. Ryu’s DEEP PLANE FACELIFT is built around the release of the retaining ligaments, the High SMAS technique, the composite and preservation concept, the extended deep plane approach, and the repositioning of the buccal fat.
Why is there not a lot of before and after pictures?
RNWOOD values patient privacy and consent. Therefore, only photos of patients who have consented are available to the public. More photos can be shown during an in-person consultation.
Why is it so expensive? What is included in the cost?
The quoted base price includes the surgeon’s fee, the operating facility fee, anesthesia fees, medications provided during surgery, compression garments and dressings, daily post-operative treatments and follow-ups for the recommended 7 to 10 day recovery period, interpretation, postoperative care including HBOT and Healite treatments, up to three complimentary hair washing sessions, and airport-to-hotel transportation on arrival and departure once your deposit has been confirmed. Not included are the pre-operative medical examination and laboratory testing, post-operative oral antibiotics by prescription, hotel accommodation, and personal transportation during your stay in Korea. The Korean government has mandated a 10% tax on cosmetic procedures since July 2011. If you have undergone multiple thread lifts or energy-based treatments, additional fees may apply depending on your individual case. Revision surgery may incur additional fees depending on the extent of correction required. Your final treatment plan and total are confirmed in writing after consultation.
Can I do the Facelift without a Necklift?
The reason the Facelift and Necklift are separate procedures is that they target different areas. The Facelift targets the sagging in the cheeks, while the Necklift targets the sagging of the jowls and jawline. You can freely choose to do one without the other, and whether both are needed together for facial harmony is decided at your consultation.
Does Dr. Ryu perform revision cases? What is the revision rate?
Please note that the revision policy generally applies within the first 6–12 months after surgery, as concerns beyond this period are often related to the natural aging process and may be considered a secondary procedure. While some sagging may gradually recur over time, your results will not return to their preoperative state, and maintenance treatments are available to help preserve your outcome.
How long will it take until I look presentable? When will I look “normal”?
How fast someone recovers is different per person. Swelling usually peaks on the 3rd day post-op, and slowly goes away, while bruising can take up to 3 to 4 weeks. You can expect the complete final result to be 6 months post-operation.
Do I need to be hospitalized? How will I be taken care of after surgery?
There is no need for hospitalization, and you will be taken care of for a few hours in a recovery room until you’re ready to go back to your hotel. During your recovery in Korea, you can receive daily evaluations by Dr. Ryu, and use our HBOT and Healite services too.
Are there any discounts or promotions?
There are no official promotions or discounts offered at the moment. However, you can discuss further with your assigned consultant during your in-person consultation. Please feel free to contact us for further details.
Can I do the surgery while traveling alone?
Please rest assured that many of our international patients travel to Seoul on their own for facelift surgery. Our dedicated English-speaking consultants and experienced medical team will be with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation through your recovery. In addition, hospitalization is typically not required.
How long does the surgery take, and what anesthesia is used?
The surgery takes 4 to 5 hours and is performed under IV sedation. RNWOOD’s in-house anesthesiologist remains present throughout the entire procedure, continuously monitoring each patient’s condition, including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. General anesthesia is also available for patients who prefer this option. One nurse and one consultant supervise recovery and discharge. Hospitalization is not required, a drain is used, a compression garment is worn (usually 3 to 5 days after a facelift, or 5 to 7 days when a neck lift is done at the same time), and the remaining stitches are removed on the 7th day. Recovery differs from person to person, and the clinical team can change these instructions when a patient’s condition requires it.
What happens on each day of my recovery in Korea?
Day 1 — shampoo, dressing, antibiotic shot. Day 2 — dressing. Day 3 — shampoo, short drain removal, dressing. Day 4 — dressing. Day 5 — shampoo, medium and long drain removal, dressing, hemostatic net, 70-80% stitch out on front ear and neck. Day 6 — dressing. Day 7 — full stitch out on earlobes and fat graft.
What languages do your consultants speak?
Our consultants speak English, Korean, Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese and Tagalog. Dedicated English-speaking consultants are with you from your initial consultation through your recovery.