{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Assessment of deep plane facelift in facial feminization surgery: A prospective pilot study.
{Author}: La Padula S;Coiante E;Beneduce N;Valentini V;D'Andrea L;Giudice GL;Pensato R;Ungerer L;Hersant B;Meningaud JP;
{Journal}: J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg
{Volume}: 85
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2023 10 20
{Factor}: 3.022
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.07.023
{Abstract}: Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is often the first procedure requested by patients wishing to undergo gender-affirming surgery. This study aims to evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of deep plane facelifts in FFS. The authors conducted a prospective study that included patients who requested a deep plane facelift as a standalone procedure to achieve a more feminine facial appearance as the only procedure of FFS. These patients underwent deep plane facelifts to achieve a more feminine oval face shape and increased tissue projection of the zygomatic-malar region. To assess the effectiveness of the procedure and patient satisfaction, the Face-Q scales, Face and Neck lift Objective Photo-Numerical Assessment Scale, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, and the Subjective Happiness Scale were applied preoperatively and one year after surgery. Thirty-six patients were included in the study. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.005) was observed between pre and postoperative scores. The repositioning of the malar fat pads increased the malar volume, providing a more oval overall shape of the face, which is typically feminine. No major complications were observed. Despite our encouraging results, new studies with a larger sample of patients are needed to support the benefits of the deep plane facelift as part of FFS to elevate this technique from an ancillary to a routine procedure for patients undergoing gender affirmation surgery.