Wipe Away Deep Wrinkles and Sagging Skin
The structure of the face is not a surface-level issue. When Denver patients notice the first signs of the aging process, that subtle softening of the jawline or the deepening of nasolabial folds, the instinct is often to look for a quick fix. But the high-altitude lifestyle in Colorado, with its intense sun exposure and active outdoor culture, demands a more robust approach to facial rejuvenation. While there are dozens of ways to temporarily smooth wrinkles, only one surgical intervention addresses the deeper layers where true aging occurs.
At Locketz Facial Plastic Surgery, we specialize in the deep plane facelift. By repositioning the facial tissues from beneath the muscle layer rather than simply pulling the skin, we achieve a result that looks entirely un-operated upon. It's perfect for restoring the facial anatomy to its natural, high-definition state.
Facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and firm the lower two-thirds of the face and the aging neck. By addressing skin laxity, excess fat, and displaced facial muscles, a facelift restores a youthful contour and eliminates the heavy, tired appearance caused by gravity and time.
While many facial plastic surgery clinics offer a variety of techniques, Dr. Locketz has intentionally transitioned to performing only the deep plane facelift. To understand why, one must look at the traditional facelift.
A traditional facelift (or SMAS lift) typically involves pulling the superficial musculoaponeurotic system and trimming loose skin. Because this technique relies on tension, it can sometimes lead to a pulled or windswept look. Conversely, the deep plane facelift enters a deeper anatomical space to release the ligaments that tether the facial tissues. This allows the face and neck to be repositioned vertically without any tension on the skin. Because the results are more durable and the facial appearance remains soft and natural, Dr. Locketz exclusively utilizes this advanced facelift technique.
Modern facial cosmetic surgery focuses on longevity and structural integrity. A surgical facelift at our Denver practice provides:
The ideal facelift patients are those experiencing moderate to significant signs of aging who still have good skin elasticity. If you struggle with sagging skin, heavy jowls, or an aging neck and desire a permanent solution, a facelift may just be exactly what you're looking for.
Those with uncontrolled medical conditions or smokers who are unable to quit during the recovery window are not good candidates for this procedure.
A comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan treats the face as a whole, rather than a collection of parts.
As facial muscles weaken, fat pads migrate downward. A facelift repositions these muscles to sharpen the jawline.
By lifting the deep facial tissues, we soften the deep creases that run from the nose to the mouth.
A cheek lift effect is achieved by vertically migrating the malar fat pads, restoring volume to the upper face without injectable fillers.
Most facelifts include a neck lift to address the "turkey neck" appearance and excess skin below the jaw.
Preparation is the key to a seamless facelift recovery. During your initial consultation, Dr. Locketz will review your medical history and provide a detailed treatment plan.
Your facelift surgery is performed in a state-of-the-art surgical suite, under general anesthesia/deep sedation for maximum comfort. Dr. Locketz follows precise facelift incisions that are hidden within the natural hairline and the contours of the ear. Once the deep facial tissues and ligaments are released and vertically repositioned, any excess skin is meticulously trimmed, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures to ensure minimal scarring.
The first few days after facial plastic surgery are focused on rest.
The goal of a Locketz facelift is for your friends to tell you that you look rested or like you’ve been on a long vacation. While the ugly phase of swelling lasts about two weeks, the youthful contour begins to emerge by month one. The deep plane approach ensures that your results last significantly longer than a traditional facelift, often turning back the clock by 10 to 15 years.
Facelift cost is not a flat fee. It reflects the skilled surgeon’s time, the complexity of your specific facial anatomy, and whether you are combining the lift with other facial procedures. During your consultation, we provide a transparent breakdown of fees, including the surgical facility and anesthesia. We believe in providing value through expertise, investing in a deep plane result often prevents the need for revision surgery later.
In a city with many facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Locketz stands out for his singular focus on the deep plane facelift. This isn't just one of many surgical techniques he uses. It's his specialty. As a double board-certified specialist, he understands that comprehensive facial rejuvenation requires a deep understanding of how the face ages in three dimensions. Choosing our practice means choosing a Denver plastic surgeon who prioritizes anatomical integrity and a boutique, patient-first experience.
You don't have to watch your reflection change and feel powerless against the clock. Reclaiming your profile is a decision rooted in self-care and agency. Contact Locketz Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your initial consultation and discover how a deep plane facelift can align your appearance with the energy you feel inside.
Dermal fillers add volume to mask sagging, but they cannot lift loose skin. Eventually, over-filling leads to an unnatural look. A facelift physically repositions the tissue for a permanent, more natural result.
Yes. Many patients choose to combine their facelift with an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) or a brow lift to ensure the upper face matches the rejuvenated lower face.
Dr. Locketz places incisions in the natural creases around the ear and into the hairline. Once healed, these are nearly invisible to the naked eye.
There is no right age. While most patients are in their 50s or 60s, we see many in their 40s seeking a mid-face lift to stay ahead of the aging process.
In our practice, the face and neck are treated as a single unit. A neck lift surgery is almost always integrated into the facelift to ensure a seamless, youthful jawline.
