If you want to restore a youthful appearance in the face, a deep plane facelift generates a stunning improvement. The “after” photos reveal sweeping jawlines, youthfully high cheekbones—all completely natural-looking. But the first question that every Philadelphia patient asks is this: what’s the difference between a deep plane facelift and a SMAS (traditional) facelift?

Keep reading to learn what sets the deep plane technique apart, and watch the video below for Dr. Claytor’s demonstration with visuals!

Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor explains how the deep plane facelift technique differs from the more common SMAS plication facelift.

SMAS plication facelift

The most common type of surgical facelift, an SMAS plication facelift works on a shallower layer of tissues than the deep plane facelift. The SMAS is the superficial musculoaponeurotic system below the skin in your mid-to-lower face. “Plication” is the term for a surgical tightening of tissues, which usually involves lifting, removing excess, and rejoining remaining tissues. In a SMAS plication facelift, the SMAS layer is lifted vertically and re-anchored in front of the ears to create a lift of about 1 cm. Some surgeons may also lift from further down into the cheek, at the front of the earlobe, for expanded effects. Still, even an expanded SMAS facelift procedure cannot compare with the more comprehensive improvements offered by a deep plane facelift.

Deep plane facelift, step by step

A deep plane facelift leaves the SMAS intact, instead requiring your surgeon to access deeper attachments in the cheeks and lower face to raise and tighten tissues. Here are three major steps in the surgery:

1. Incisions are made within the hairline and in the natural folds of the ear.

A deep plane facelift is performed through discreet incisions placed in the sideburn area, within the folds of the ear, and along the hairline behind the ear at the back of the neck.

Not infrequently, Dr. Claytor will also create an incision within the hairline above the ears (just behind the temple); this allows him to lift the SMAS of the face at another important vertical axis, which may be more beneficial for certain patients.

2. The SMAS is separated, retaining ligaments are released, and the tissue is anchored higher for a defined cheek and firmer jowl area

SMAS is surgically separated from underlying tissues to allow Dr. Claytor to reach the retaining ligaments. These ligaments have a strong hold on the tissues of the cheek and lower face, keeping tissues in position. Thus, Dr. Claytor releases them in order to be able to lift the skin, fat, and SMAS higher on the facial bone structure. The skin is sutured gradually in the newly raised position, and anchored above the ear.

Ligament release is the primary step that makes the deep plane facelift so different from the SMAS technique: it allows for more impactful, dramatic results because the cheek’s youthful, high shape—a.k.a. the malar eminence—can be more fully restored, resulting in a stunning, youthful sweep in the mid-face.

3. Neck bands are released and anchored higher for a chiseled jawline.

In the neck, rather than SMAS, you have the platysmal muscles located below the ear, beneath the mandible, and toward the front of the neck. These muscles form the tight, vertical lines you see at the front of your neck when you clench your jaw (they don’t affect how you move your head).

To create a sweeping, more youthful jawline appearance, the platysma is released along the jawline, allowing Dr. Claytor to anchor these muscles behind the ear. This can create a chiseled mandible or jawline, as you can see in this before and after photo:

The importance of an experienced, expert deep plane facelift surgeon

A deep plane facelift works on the same layer of tissues where your facial nerves lie. Nerves spread from below and behind the ear, out into the cheeks, jawline, and below the eye area. The nerves that thread throughout the facial ligaments are released in a deep plane facelift, so it’s critically important that your surgeon is well-versed in this anatomy and in techniques for maintaining the integrity of facial nerves. Once a surgeon dissects below the SMAS layer of the face, they must identify and very delicately operate around the nerves.

Do not settle when it comes to choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon: avoid surgeons who offer below-average pricing, or who don’t have the before and afters, reviews, plastic surgery credentials, and reputation that prove they can safely achieve excellent facelift results. Dr. R. Brannon Claytor teaches his deep plane facelift technique at national meetings of plastic surgeons, and is widely considered to be a deep plane expert.

Should I consider a deep plane facelift?

Patients who are good candidates for deep plane facelifts often come to us with loose skin that has succumbed to gravity, including forming jowls (loose skin around the jawline and chin) and sagging in the neck. As we age, we experience facial descent: our cheek structure (malar eminence is the technical term) involutes, and what we start to see is downward descent of our face—creating jowling, and excess neck skin and fat.

A good candidate for this procedure is looking to return to a more sculpted jawline and reduced wrinkles. Dr. Claytor’s goal is to help you look like the best version of yourself: We’re not here to make you look like someone else!

If you’re ready to experience these rejuvenating results yourself, we’d love to meet with you to discuss options! Dr. Claytor serves patients from all over the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, & Philadelphia areas. Call 610.527.4833 or contact our Philadelphia plastic surgery practice online to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Claytor today.

Plastic surgeons often say that there’s no such thing as a scarless plastic surgery: simply put, incisions are required for effective surgical shaping and lifting, and that creates scars. Experienced board certified plastic surgeons take great care to inconspicuously place incisions and limit their size—but it is natural to want any resulting scars to fade as quickly as possible.

As an elite Philadelphia plastic surgeon, Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is at the forefront of exploring methods for reducing their appearance. Here, we share the latest proven approaches to plastic surgery scar care.

Common scar care methods after plastic surgery

To speed along the process of scar “maturity,” plastic surgeons routinely advise their patients to use scar strips, scar gel, and even scar massage. But in recent years, collagen remodeling treatments like laser treatments and microneedling have also emerged as effective scar-minimizing techniques.

Our plastic surgeon’s research and findings

Microneedling, also known as “collagen induction therapy,” is an innovative and minimally-invasive skin treatment typically used on the face to treat acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, dull skin tone, and enlarged pores. Very fine, hair-like needles are passed over the skin surface to prompt the body’s healing mechanism, promoting fresh collagen and elastin in treated areas for better plumpness, smoothness, coloration, and elasticity. Microneedling has been proven to be a sound treatment for frustrating chronic acne scars, and it is also commonly used for treating stretch marks, which are a form of scar.

While it is impossible to make a facelift or breast lift fully scarless, minimizing post-surgical scars with in-office treatments like microneedling is well-proven and can be a routine part of your cosmetic surgery treatment plan.

While laser skin resurfacing has been a more common option for minimizing post-surgical scars, board certified Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor saw the effectiveness of microneedling for treating other skin irregularities and its promise for surgical scars. He thus spent the past several years conducting a study into its effects on our Philadelphia plastic surgery patients’ scars. In the study, conducted at our practice here in Bryn Mawr, 25 patients returned to Dr. Claytor for 3 microneedling sessions at regular intervals after surgery.

Plastic surgery scar study results

At just four months post-op, patients treated with microneedling saw significant scar improvement based on 3 different measures, including both doctor and patient ratings. Dr. Claytor’s study also found that those who started microneedling earlier—just 6 weeks after surgery, once the initial healing process was complete—saw even better results at the four-month mark. Previously, most surgeons believed that it was necessary to wait a full year after surgery before using microneedling to improve surgical scars’ appearance.

The research was published in the peer-reviewed journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Claytor is happy to offer this option in our office to his plastic surgery patients after most procedures for the face, breast, and body.

Read the full abstract of “Microneedling Outcomes in Early Postsurgical Scars” online »

About Dr. R. Brannon Claytor

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and holds membership in numerous professional societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society. Dr. Claytor was named a 2021 Best Plastic Surgeon by Newsweek and a Philadelphia Magazine Top Doctor in 2021 and 2022, among other honors.

Dr. Claytor’s practice, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, serves the greater Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia area. Dr. Claytor is an expert on the deep plane facelift in Philadelphia, as well as the specialized drainless tummy tuck technique (allowing for a drain-free recovery from abdominoplasty). He also offers a full range of plastic surgery for the face, breast, and body including breast augmentation, liposuction, and the innovative, minimally-invasive MyEllevate neck lift.

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor’s Philadelphia plastic surgery practice, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, is one of a select handful of providers to offer the new, longer-lasting neuromodulator Daxxify beginning Monday, December 12, 2022, ahead of the product’s official launch in summer 2023.

Bryn Mawr, PA, Dec. 13, 2022 /PR Newswire/— R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS of Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, announces that the new, longer-lasting neuromodulator DAXXIFY™ will be available at his practice starting on Monday, December 12, 2022.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor and his outstanding team of providers are proud to be one of the few medical spas in the Philadelphia area chosen to be a part of Daxxify’s early release, an honor reserved for a small group of highly respected neurotoxin injectors nationwide.

“Patients in the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and greater Philadelphia areas have long trusted Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery to achieve outstanding results using the most advanced products available on the market,” explains Dr. Claytor. “We are thrilled to be one of the first to offer Daxi, the latest in neuromodulating technology.”

Revance Aesthetics, the maker of Daxxify (or “Daxi”), is pre-releasing their Botox-like injectable to the top 1% of neuromodulator injecting practices in the nation, making Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery part of an elite group of providers selected to offer the product ahead of its official launch in summer 2023.

Daxxify is the first FDA-approved peptide-formulated injectable neuromodulator. Similar to Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeuveau®, Daxxify (daxibotulinumtoxinA) works by temporarily blocking nerve signals that cause the facial muscles to contract, relaxing treated muscles and softening expression lines. Daxxify is approved to treat glabellar lines (the frown lines between the eyebrows) and may also be used off-label to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, or above the lip to create a “lip flip” effect.

Unlike other neuromodulators currently on the market, Daxxify is formulated with a positively charged peptide to extend its anti-aging effects. Clinical trials showed that Daxxify lasted 6-9 months for some patients—which is 2-3 times longer than its competitors, making it a longer-lasting Botox alternative. Additionally, Daxxify does not contain any human or animal byproducts, a plus for those seeking a ‘cleaner’ Botox-type product.

Daxi treatments will be available starting on Monday, December 12, 2022 with Dr. Claytor and Julie Holesh, Physician Assistant and aesthetic injector at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery. Patients in the greater Philadelphia area are invited to schedule their appointment by calling 610-527-4833 to experience “the neuromodulator of tomorrow” today!

About Dr. R. Brannon Claytor

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor’s warmth and attention to his patients’ needs make him one of the Philadelphia area’s favorite plastic surgeons. His knowledge of and continual training in the most advanced surgical techniques provide his patients with up-to-date, cutting-edge care that yields exceptional results. Dr. Claytor’s practice, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, is located at 135 S Bryn Mawr Ave Suite 300, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. The office is on the Philadelphia Main Line. Dr. Claytor can be reached at (610) 527-4833 or at www.cnplasticsurgery.com.

Media contact: Dr. R. Brannon Claytor, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, (610) 527-4833, www.cnplasticsurgery.com.

Men are a growing percentage of facelift patients, and male celebrities, such as fashion designer Marc Jacobs, as well as men across the U.S. are regularly choosing facelift surgery to restore a more youthful appearance. However, not all facelift surgeons understand how the procedure should be modified to preserve a manly appearance. Here, Philadelphia double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor explains how male facelift techniques can help you achieve natural, masculine-looking results.

Facelift surgery was the 6th most popular plastic surgery procedure for men in 2021.

How men’s facelifts differ from women’s

Regardless of your gender, facelifts achieve transformative anti-aging results by tightening the underlying facial musculature, repositioning and removing fat, and excising loose skin—however, facelifts for men feature some minor technical differences from traditional facelifts. Plastic surgeons must consider a number of factors for male patients that can greatly influence results.

Men’s facial hair

Men’s facial hair usually dictates the facelift incision type and placement. Surgeons must be careful to place incisions in a manner that avoids disrupting facial hair follicles or causes excessive scarring which may impact hair patterns and growth. The lifted effect is achieved by pulling the beard line closer to your ear. To conceal the scars, your surgeon will place incisions in front of and behind each ear and within the hairline.

Men’s facial structures

As men typically have stronger facial skeletal and ligament structures compared to those of women, surgeon’s should be careful not to excise too much muscle or overly pull the skin—which may create an obviously surgically-altered or feminized appearance.

Male facelifts tend to focus more on the lower half of the face as the loss of youthful fat pads and waning muscle strength, particularly around the jawline and in the mid face, often lead to the appearance of jowls, diminished definition around the jaw and chin, and a drooping facial appearance.

Men’s aesthetic preferences

Men generally seek different facelift outcomes than women. As such, male facelift procedures should be modified to deliver a lifted appearance and remove unwanted bulk from the neck, while preserving classic masculine characteristics including a sharp, well-defined chin and jawline—this is in contrast to the more graceful contours most female facelift patients seek.

It is especially important to avoid surgical overcorrection with male facelift patients; certain indicators of age are positively associated with mature masculinity and contribute to a distinguished appearance.

When the facelift procedure plan extends to full facial rejuvenation including the eyes and brow, here again we must modify the procedure plan. Men generally have fuller eyelids and a heavier brow line, which your surgeon should consider as they rejuvenate these features to avoid creating a feminine or unnatural look. Maintaining a natural shape when addressing the eyes, preserving a masculine degree of upper eyelid hooding, is the mark of an expert plastic surgeon who is highly-experienced with male facial rejuvenation.

Choose the best facelift procedure for your anatomy

With years of experience offering deep plane facelift in the Main Line and Philadelphia area, Dr. Claytor finds this technique is almost always the most effective procedure for achieving natural-looking results for men. Men’s skin is heavier and thicker, especially around the jaw and neck areas, and this advanced technique is well-suited to handling this challenge: a deep plane facelift allows a surgeon to make deeper adjustments to the facial ligaments that tether the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system), providing more support for the surface skin, resulting in longer-lasting, more natural looking results. By using a deep plane facelift technique, the neck and upper chest of male facelift patients can also be lifted and tightened to achieve a more complete, rejuvenated appearance.

Additionally, deep plane facelifts can be accomplished with fewer incisions—a significant advantage when considering shorter hairstyles and hair loss in men can make concealing facelift scars more challenging.

Only a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this technique should be trusted to determine if a deep plane facelift is preferable over other facelift procedures for men. An expert surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, skin elasticity, and goals before recommending a treatment plan optimized to achieve lifted yet masculine results.

Add complementary procedures to your facelift

To achieve full rejuvenation in Bryn Mawr, you may consider adding additional procedures and treatments for more complete results.

• Eyelid lift removes excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelids for a refreshed appearance and improved peripheral vision.
• Brow lift softens deep lines along the forehead and between the eyebrows for a more youthful look.
• Facial fat grafting uses your own fat to restore youthful volume to the face.
• Laser skin resurfacing addresses signs of aging and scars on the skin’s surface to “set the clock back” even further.
• Neuromodulators such as Botox and Dysport minimize dynamic wrinkles by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles; they can be invaluable for treating the forehead and eye areas.
• Advanced dermal fillers like the Revance RHA collection can instantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and treat a gaunt appearance.
• Medical-grade skincare products contain greater concentrations of active ingredients to more effectively reduce signs of aging and offer greater protection against environmental damage—extending and complimenting your surgical results.

Facelift for men in the Main Line

We hope this educated perspective on male facelifts empowers you in your procedure and provider choices.

If you are in the Main Line area, we invite you to consult with Philadelphia double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery. Dr. Claytor is a highly-respected plastic surgeon well-known for his commitment to safety and expert surgical skills—his deep plane facelift techniques have been featured in Haute Beauty. Designated one of Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Doctors for 2021 and 2022, a Main Line Today Top Doctor from 2017-2021, and one of “America’s Best Plastic Surgeons of 2021” by Newsweek, Dr. Claytor is the premier choice in the Main line and Bryn Mawr areas for achieving natural-looking facelift results for men. To schedule your free consultation, call our practice directly at 610.527.4833 or request more information about our services online.

Looking for a tummy tuck with a streamlined recovery, natural-looking results, and fewer complications? You are wise to learn about the drain-free tummy tuck, a specialized procedure that achieves gorgeous results while also eliminating the need for post-operative drains. As an expert in this technique, Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor has exclusively performed drain-free tummy tucks for over 10 years. Here are 4 reasons to choose this procedure, plus how to find a tummy tuck surgeon.

1. No cumbersome drain to wear after surgery

The obvious benefit of a drain-free tummy tuck? There are no post-op drains to wear! Dr. Claytor’s technique allows the body to drain fluid from the surgical area on its own. You’ll completely skip the hassle of emptying drain fluids after surgery, as well as the 24/7 discomfort of wearing drains.

Being more comfortable sooner after surgery also means that you may find it easier to be up and about. This movement helps you to more quickly return to normal; Dr. Claytor encourages his patients to be lightly active around the house and take a shower the day after surgery.

Being more comfortable after surgery also means that you may find it easier to be up and about, which helps you to more quickly return to normal.

2. Faster tummy tuck recovery

Tummy tucks are well-known for requiring patience during the recovery period, but a major benefit of a drainless tummy tuck is that the technique helps to speed up recovery. During surgery, Dr. Claytor leaves a thin layer of scarpa’s fascia (connective tissue) intact below the skin, ultimately leaving the abdominal wall’s natural lymphatic drainage system intact, also. This allows the body to carry away fluid that would otherwise accumulate in the operated area, and it has added benefits: there is less trauma to your tissues, improving blood supply and reducing the strain on your healing body.

3. Fewer complications

Dr. Claytor’s independent research has demonstrated that drainless tummy tucks result in lower fluid collection rates than those of those patients who wear plastic drains at their incision sites. This helps to reduce the odds of developing a seroma, a post-surgical complication in which fluid collects beneath the skin.

4. Excellent tummy tuck results

A drainless tummy tuck addresses the same concerns as a traditional tummy tuck: this technique also tightens stretched abdominal muscles, removes excess skin, addresses fat deposits or a tummy pooch, and creates a natural-looking belly button. As such, you can expect the same benefits to your shape, your comfort, and your confidence:

• Firmer, more supportive abdominal musculature
• Relief from diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) & symptoms related to the condition, such a lower back pain and urinary incontinence
• Removal of excess skin and fat
• A contoured, proportional abdominal shape
• Improved quality of life

As with a traditional tummy tuck, incisions are typically placed from hip bone to hip bone, low on the abdomen so that they are hidden within the bikini line once healed.

Finding a surgeon for a drain-free tummy tuck

Before scheduling a consultation, ask any plastic surgeon you are considering if they perform drainless tummy tucks, technically called a scarpas-sparing abdominoplasty. Not all surgeons are trained and experienced in this technique, and you should not choose a surgeon who is any less than a specialist in this advanced method. As always, it is critical to look for a surgeon’s board certification, skill, and evidence of many previous happy patients.

Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor is a well-known drainless tummy tuck expert. In addition to educating his Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia tummy tuck patients about this procedure, Dr. Claytor educates fellow surgeons on the drain-free technique and has pioneered research that demonstrates its effectiveness; he also teaches an advanced course on scarpas-sparing abdominoplasty at national meetings of The Aesthetic Society. Learn more about Dr. Claytor & our plastic surgery office »

In this educational video for fellow plastic surgeons, Dr. Claytor narrates an animation demonstrating how he performs a drainless tummy tuck—with an emphasis on how he incorporates liposuction for more comprehensive results.

Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck without drains?

Most patients who are a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery (in overall good health, at a stable weight, with exercise- and diet-resistant fat and excess skin on the abdomen) are also excellent candidates for a drain-free abdominoplasty. Rest assured that you will receive personalized advice and recommendations at your consultation, so meeting with Dr. Claytor at our Bryn Mawr plastic surgery office is the best way to learn if this surgery may truly be appropriate for you.

Schedule your consultation with a Philadelphia plastic surgeon to learn if drain-free abdominoplasty could be right for you

Philadelphia board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brannon Claytor is highly experienced with this technique, and he is passionate about helping body contouring patients meet their goals safely and efficiently. Schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Claytor by calling 610-527-4833 or contacting Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery online today.

All surgical facelifts are intended to take years off of your appearance by tightening the muscles and tissue along the jawline, cheeks, and neck—though they differ in technique and cosmetic outcomes. The key difference in a deep plane facelift is that the underlying facial musculature is also treated. This technique provides more support for the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) and surface skin, resulting in longer-lasting, more natural-looking results. Here, double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor answers some of the most common deep plane facelift questions.

• Is a deep plane facelift better?
• Is deep plane facelift recovery different from SMAS facelift recovery?
• Does a deep plane facelift cost more?
• Does a deep plane facelift leave more scars?
• How long do deep plane facelifts last?
• Are there deep plane facelift complications?
• How do I find a deep plane facelift surgeon?

Is a deep plane facelift better?

It may be, particularly if addressing your facial aging concerns requires a more comprehensive approach that will treat underlying tissues supporting your skin in addition to surface skin laxity and wrinkles. That said, only a board certified plastic surgeon with years of facial surgery experience should be trusted to determine if a deep plane facelift is preferable over other facelift procedures. Your surgeon should consider your facial structure, skin elasticity and texture, and aesthetic goals before recommending a personalized treatment plan.

Facelift options in the Main Line

A deep plane facelift is ideal for older patients who have moderate to severe symptoms in the mid-face and neck, such as drooping cheeks, visible jowling, excess skin and fat below the chin, and sagging skin in the neck. A deep plane facelift can also address sunken cheeks and a hollow eye appearance.

A SMAS plication facelift benefits patients who have mild to moderate symptoms in the mid-face and neck and desire a more defined jawline, volumized cheek area, and tighter neck. This is achieved using layers of sutures in the SMAS that lift the skin laterally towards the hairline; any excess skin and fat are also removed. The underlying ligaments that are tightened in a deep plane facelift are not disturbed.

A full facelift is the traditional skin and fat excision procedure for patients who wish to achieve a considerable lift in the mid face and neck region.

A short scar facelift or “ponytail facelift” technique is excellent for younger patients and professionals who have mild symptoms in the lower mid-face and jawline.

A mini facelift is a great option for patients who find they need more than injectable dermal fillers to maintain a youthful appearance, but prefer minimal downtime.

Is deep plane facelift recovery different from SMAS facelift recovery?

Yes, slightly—because a deep plane facelift allows the skin and SMAS to remain attached, this technique causes less trauma so recovery time can be shorter. Facial compression wraps and wound care instructions will be similar between both facelift techniques. Most patients feel comfortable going out in public after about two weeks.

Does a deep plane facelift cost more?

Yes; a deep plane facelift typically costs more as it requires additional skill and precision compared to other face lifting techniques. The technique goes beyond the SMAS to tighten the ligaments that support the muscle and skin and, during this process, the facial nerves that run along the ligaments must remain intact to avoid nerve damage. This means it is very important to choose a surgeon with proven deep plane facelift expertise, versus choosing a provider based on pricing alone.

It is very important to choose a surgeon with proven deep plane facelift expertise, versus choosing a provider based on pricing alone.

Does a deep plane facelift leave more scars?

No; because the face is lifted at a deeper level with minimal tension placed on the skin, healing incisions will not be under stress and, once healed, any scarring should be nearly invisible. Additionally, deep plane facelift incisions are strategically placed around the contours of the ears and within the hairline to hide them from view.

How long do deep plane facelifts last?

When performed by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon, most patients enjoy their deep plane facelift results for 10-15 years and beyond. Surgeons credit the longevity of these results to the deeper adjustments made during surgery. Though a deep plane facelift will not stop the natural aging process, the skin and SMAS are better supported by underlying ligaments to create long-lasting, natural-appearing results.

When performed by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon, most patients enjoy their deep plane facelift results for 10-15 years and beyond.

Are there deep plane facelift complications?

With any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. Deep plane facelifts carry a greater risk of nerve damage than other facelift techniques as deeper manipulation in areas near facial nerves is required.

Most deep plane facelift complications are not life-threatening. Surgical safety is dependent on the surgeon’s technique and experience, using an accredited operating facility with proper systems in place, and safe anesthesia administration.

To minimize the risk of complications, your surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and overall health. You must be completely honest about your habits, medications, and more to ensure you can safely undergo surgery. Notably, facelift surgery should be avoided by patients who smoke—skin flap necrosis is 12 times more likely to occur after undergoing a facelift in active smokers. Faithfully following pre and post-surgery instructions will further minimize complications.

How do I find a deep plane facelift surgeon in Bryn Mawr?

Choose a board certified plastic surgeon who has performed many deep plane facelifts: successful results depend on maintaining the integrity of the delicate facial nerves so proven experience in this specific technique is non-negotiable. Your surgeon should be willing to discuss your goals, both the risks and the benefits of this procedure, and communicate realistic expectations. Any surgeon you consider should also be able to show you before and after photos of patients with similar concerns they have treated, to prove they can successfully provide results you find attractive.

Deep plane facelift in Main Line

Philadelphia double board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Brannon Claytor at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery serves as the Chief of Plastic Surgery for Main Line Health. With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Claytor is the premier choice in the Main line and Bryn Mawr areas for performing your deep plane facelift. He has been designated one of Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Doctors for 2021 and 2022, a Main Line Today Top Doctor from 2017-2021, and his deep plane facelift techniques have been featured in Haute Beauty. To schedule a consultation, call our practice directly at 610.527.4833 or request more information about our services online.

With so many of us coping with stress, not to mention the effects of a pandemic, it’s more important than ever to take care of your body and mind. Fortunately, we live in an area with a bustling wellness scene full of soul-soothing and health-boosting businesses.

Invest in your self-care this (and every!) month—and show support for our community of great local businesses. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite health-conscious restaurants, spas and fitness studios in Bryn Mawr and the greater Philadelphia area. Check it out!

Nourishing Eats

The Juice Room is one of our favorite local eateries. They provide a wide variety of fresh, made-to-order fruit and veggie juices and smoothies, as well as sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and more! We love the “Choose Your Own Adventure” juice: select a base (carrot, cucumber, or celery) + 3 additional fruits/veggies. Don’t forget to add superfood extras like flax, acai, spirulina or protein powder. Not feeling like leaving the comfort of home? No problem. They deliver!

Bend & Breathe

Bulldog Yoga is our favorite yoga studio because they’re all about FUN! They stand out from the competition because of their focus on hand-picked and motivating workout music, which has proven mental and emotional health benefits to accompany the existing benefits that yoga provides (increased muscle strength and tone, enhanced flexibility and stress release, just to name a few). The best part? You can take classes online from anywhere in the world with the Bulldog Yoga app!

Get Motivated to Move

If you just can’t seem to get into a regular exercise habit, then check out Platoon Fitness. They offer personal and group training for weight loss as well as physical therapy. Sign up for a kickboxing or boxing class, or go in for massage therapy or assisted stretching. Your body will thank you!

Relax & Release with Massage

Did you know that an estimated 90% of diseases are stress-related? Fortunately, we can reduce stress with one of the most simple, natural and time-tested therapies around: massage! Yeh’s Art of Healing Medical Massage Clinic offers advanced bodywork modalities from around the world. Their mission is to awaken the healing power within each person “so that they may begin to correct their unhealthy habits and create new ones that will provide long-term benefits for their body and spirit.”

Eco Therapy

“Vitamin N” has been proven to benefit overall well-being in so many ways and Stoneleigh Garden is our go-to destination to experience the healing powers of nature. The garden features towering trees, stunning vistas, and intimate spaces for forest bathing, earthing, and meditation. Explore and be inspired in this historic family-owned garden that was designed by several well-known landscape architects.

Healing from the Inside Out

Not all healthcare providers are created equal. We appreciate Philadelphia Integrative Medicine for combining the best of conventional & evidence-based alternative/complementary medicine to create a truly holistic approach to healing. This means lifestyle changes, cutting-edge diagnostic testing, mind-body practices, and natural supplements and functional medicines to support each patients’ unique biochemistry and personal health goals.

Giving Back

Studies show that volunteering and helping others is both good for the community and for your health! Here are a few of our favorite health-conscious organizations to support:

• Alex’s Lemonade Stand – Supporting families, funding life-saving research, and raising to help cure childhood cancer.
• The Food Trust – Making affordable, nutritious food and healthy-eating habits more accessible and available in our community.
• Girls on the Run Philadelphia – A youth development and running program to build healthy habits and confidence for elementary and middle school girls.

Holistic Healing

Sunset Moon Wellness Center is your one-stop-shop for all things healthy and holistic! This wellness hub offers the following:

• A donation-based yoga and movement arts studio;
• A Superfoods Cafe serving organic, vegan, gluten-free and zero-waste foods,
• Integrative Healing Arts such as iridology, aromatherapy, herbal medicines and health counseling;
• Bodywork and energy healing services such as massage, reiki, reflexology.

They also have regular workshops and special events that provide health and wellness education for people of all ages. Take part in their Reiki Share or bring kids to the monthly Kid’s Corner for yoga, fun crafts, and cooking classes!

Get Glowing

Nothing says self-care quite like a spa day. Let us pamper you! Philadelphia’s Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery in Bryn Mawr offers medical aesthetic spa treatments to help you feel pampered, confident, and beautiful.

Double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor and our team of aesthetic experts have expertise in a full selection of rejuvenating skin procedures to give you natural looking results. You can trust you’ll be in good hands: Dr. Claytor has been recognized as a Top Doctor by Philadelphia Magazine and Main Line Today for years and his team takes a ! Some popular choices:

• To immediately take years of your apparent age, consider restoring volume with injectable dermal fillers. Neuromodulators such as Botox are another incredibly easy yet effective treatment option.
• If your skin is looking lackluster, consider a skin-brightening treatment such as a customized HydraFacial, chemical peel, laser resurfacing, light therapy, or microneedling treatment.
• Eliminate waxing and shaving routines with laser hair removal.
• Surgical options can improve virtually any aspect of your appearance, with procedures such as SmartLipo®, upper lid blepharoplasty, or Deep Plane Facelift.

To set up your personal consultation and learn how Dr. Claytor can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, call our practice at 610.527.4833 or reach out to us online today.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our Philadelphia Main Line wellness roundup! We at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery wish you well and look forward to seeing you soon.

Lip lifts have become a popular no-filler procedure to enhance the natural lip line with long-lasting results. Serving the Philadelphia Main Line, plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is passionate about educating patients on their aesthetic options, and finding the best combinations of non-surgical and plastic surgery procedures to fulfill appearance goals. Today, we are sitting down with him to answer your lip lift FAQs.

• What is a lip lift?
• What does a lip lift do?
• How painful is a lip lift?
• Does a lip lift leave a scar?
• Are lip lifts permanent?
• Are lip lifts worth it?

What is a lip lift?

A lip lift is a plastic surgery procedure that involves removing a horizontal section of the philtrum—the skin between the nose and upper lip—through a small incision directly under the nose, thus repositioning the upper lip and raising it closer to the underside of the nose. This allows more of the lip to be exposed, creating a wider, more defined, and fuller-appearing lip. For many patients, this provides a satisfying improvement that allows them to use less lip filler, or avoid lip injections. Lip lifts are suitable for patients of any age; younger patients typically choose the procedure to create a stronger “cupid’s bow;” lips lifts are also often sought by patients experiencing typical signs of facial aging in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. While a lip lift is a relatively simple surgical procedure, success is dependent on customizing the procedure to the patient’s anatomy and specific goals.

While a lip lift is a relatively simple surgical procedure, success is dependent on customizing the procedure to the patient’s anatomy and specific goals.

What does a lip lift do?

A lip lift creates a larger upper lip by revealing more of the natural lip and achieving a more defined vermillion border (the lip line), without injections or implants. While it most often addresses thin lips, the procedure can also be used to improve symmetry and achieve a more proportionate look. Good candidates are non-smokers with an elongated philtrum who desire a naturally fuller, more exposed upper lip. However, a lip lift can’t do everything: if you have limited volume, or weathered and wrinkled lips, a lip augmentation with filler like Restylane or Juvéderm may provide a more desirable outcome, or be used in conjunction with a lip lift to achieve a simultaneously volumizing and lifting effect.

How painful is a lip lift?

Local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area so you shouldn’t experience any discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, the incision site will be slightly swollen and tender for 1 to 2 weeks and you will need to be mindful of activity that could strain that area. Cold-compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as necessary to make the healing process more comfortable. To ensure healing progresses as planned and any residual soreness quickly resolves, avoid excessive lip movements and sleep with your head slightly elevated.

Does a lip lift leave a scar?

There will be a small, thin scar at the incision site that, with proper scar care, should heal to the point of near-invisibility over time. Make-up can be used to cover the healing scar after about 2 weeks; it will continue to fade over the next 3 months until concealer should no longer be necessary. That said, it is critical to protect your scar with sunscreen to avoid a darkened appearance. Should you need to lessen the appearance of a lip lift scar, laser skin resurfacing can be used at a later date.

Are lip lifts permanent?

As with most plastic surgery procedures, a lip lift provides a permanent structural change: the small portion of skin removed will change the relative proportions of your philtrum and upper lip. That said, aging and gravity will continue to affect your lips and skin and some patients, after a decade or more have passed, may wish for a touch-up lip lift procedure to correct for this. As you age, you will also naturally lose volume in your lips and face and may need to compensate for this loss to maintain your desired results; this can be remedied by a variety of facial injectables.

Are lip lifts worth it?

The fairly reasonable cost of lip lift plastic surgery and its short recovery period make it, for the right patient, well-worth the results that can be achieved. According to RealSelf, approximately 92% of patients felt their lip lift was “worth it.” Having a lip lift may even create savings over time, as your results may allow you to use less injectable lip fillers; talk to your plastic surgeon about what you can expect. Additionally, with results lasting up to 10 years or more, a lip lift’s longevity makes this procedure one to strongly consider.

According to RealSelf, approximately 92% of patients felt their lip lift was “worth it.”

Lip lift and lip augmentation in Main Line Philadelphia

If you desire more youthful and volumized lips, Dr. Claytor would be pleased to discuss your options at his Bryn Mawr office in Main Line. He will help you compare a full range of lip enhancement procedures and develop a tailored procedure plan. Schedule your free lip lift consultation by contacting the practice online or calling the office at (610) 527-4833.

More about Dr. Claytor

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is an award-winning, double-board certified plastic surgeon who has been in practice for over 20 years and was named among Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Doctors in 2022. He serves Philadelphia plastic surgery patients in his beautiful Bryn Mawr office which includes an Quad-A-accredited on-site surgical center for the ultimate in safety and privacy.

Adjusting the shape and/or size of your nose has an effect on your entire appearance and presentation. As such, rhinoplasty offers a night-and-day transformation that, for most patients, imparts an exciting boost in confidence. But this transformation does require a surgical recovery period, and it’s important to have clear expectations. Below, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor answers common questions about recovery after nose reshaping.

Why do I have to wear a splint during rhinoplasty recovery?

You need to wear an internal splint for the first few days after rhinoplasty surgery to support your healing cartilage and bone tissues. This ensures that they remain in the position that your surgeon intended.

After several days, your surgeon will remove splints, along with bandages and nasal packing, and you will get your first look at your developing results. Your nose won’t yet be fully healed, and swelling will still be affecting its shape and size, but you will get a hint of what’s to come as healing progresses.

Many patients feel like their nose is congested after rhinoplasty surgery, and wearing a splint can certainly worsen this. While the recovery period is rarely painful thanks to advanced pain management techniques, it’s important to know that discomfort is normal and to be expected. Plan your ideal recovery space with activities, books, and movies, and be sure you do not have any obligations that will prevent having a restful recovery time. Your body will need to devote much of its energy to the healing process.

Will I have black eyes after rhinoplasty?

Most patients have some amount of bruising beneath their eyes, on either side of the nose, after rhinoplasty. This bruising can look like a “black eye.” Most patients see the majority of bruising and swelling subside after 1-2 weeks, so that they are ready to leave the house to go to restaurants, shop, work, or socialize.

Can I wear glasses or sunglasses after a nose job?

You should not wear glasses or sunglasses for extended periods of time during the first few weeks after surgery. Since glasses rest on your nasal bridge, wearing them is uncomfortable during recovery and could affect your healing process. That said, putting on lightweight reading glasses in short bursts may be okay, with your surgeon’s permission. (For those that cannot function without glasses, we can suggest adaptations based on your needs.)

The exact amount of time before you can regularly wear eyewear again varies from patient to patient, but will probably be no more than 2 weeks after surgery.

When can I work out again after rhinoplasty?

It is unsafe to exercise at your full capacity during the first 4-6 weeks of healing. Strenuous activities can increase your blood pressure to unsafe levels during recovery—this can both affect your health and the integrity of your results (patients who exercise too early often see their nose swell up)! After 3 weeks, however, you may begin to re-incorporate light exercise into your daily routine, gradually increasing to your normal capacity.

Can I do anything to make rhinoplasty swelling go down faster?

The most important thing you can do to facilitate healing (and help the swelling go down) is to follow your board certified plastic surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions to the letter. We will provide you with detailed instructions for how to care for yourself after surgery: you will be instructed to rest, place ice packs on your nose in short increments, abstain from smoking, and avoid exercise (among other guidelines). Each of these helps the swelling to go down within a normal time frame.

If you are already following your surgeon’s instructions but hope to boost your post-surgical well-being, there are a few ways to enhance your body’s ability to minimize swelling naturally:

• Eat a healthy diet packed with nutrient-dense foods. A 2018 study shows optimized nutrition is key to healing (and, therefore, your results).
• Eat pineapple or take a bromelain supplement. Found in high amounts in pineapple, bromelain is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help to minimize swelling and bruising.
• Apply arnica-based gels or creams. Be careful to follow your surgeon’s instructions, however, about where and when it is safe to apply creams to your nose.

Expect swelling in your nose to subside top-to-bottom (in the direction of gravity); your nasal tip will be the last area where swelling resolves.

Schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Brannon Claytor

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is here to help you every step of the way, from pre-surgery consultation to questions you have after surgery. He has helped many patients in the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia area achieve their desired look, as evidenced by his reviews. Learn what Dr. Claytor can do for you by scheduling your consultation online or calling (610) 527-4833 today.

You’ve said yes to the ring and to your soulmate—now it’s time to say YES to the dress! Choosing a wedding gown is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a bride: all eyes will be on you, and you’ll want to look your personal best. But finding that perfect dress can be stressful. It’s an expensive investment, and you want to find the style and fit that will help you shine while standing the test of time in photos.

We’ll start with some proven wedding dress shopping tips that are guaranteed to help you find the gown of your dreams, as well as where to shop for what you need in the Main Line.

The most common questions about wedding dress shopping

When should I start shopping for bridalwear?

Most designer dresses take approximately four to six months to order, followed by one to two months for alterations. We suggest shopping beginning about 9-12 months prior to your wedding date to allow time for a stress-free search and to avoid rush fees.

Are alterations included in the price of the dress?

Nearly every wedding dress needs some type of work, including hemming, bustling, and additional tailoring to ensure it fits perfectly. Alterations are an additional charge and their prices differ based on the gown, tailor, and location.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for my bridalwear appointment?

There are a number of practical things to do in the weeks before as well as the day of your bridalwear appointment. Here are some key points:

• Know your wedding venue before picking out a dress: the dress you’d choose for beach nuptials would likely be quite different from the one you’d choose for a ballroom reception.
• Because trying on wedding dresses is time consuming, you’ll want to focus on the right styles, so do research to narrow down what silhouettes you love (and dislike) ahead of time.
• Check to be sure any boutiques you book an appointment with carry dresses in your size and within your budget.
• Wear nude undergarments, including shapewear and a strapless bra, plus heels of the height you’ll wear on the big day.
• Style your hair roughly as you intend to (up or down makes a big difference) and wear accessories and perfume that will help conjure up the wedding theme in your mind.
• Remember this isn’t the time to party: come to your appointment sober and bring only a few very select friends or family members whose opinions you trust. Your wedding dress is a very large, personal decision and you’ll want to get it right without undue influences!

You can get more smart wedding dress shopping tips here at Brides.com. Most importantly, come to your appointment with an open mind, a sporting attitude, and faith that the right dress is out there waiting for you!

Where should I buy my wedding dress?

While it may be tempting to shop online, or head to a chain store for your dress, we encourage you to find your wedding gown at a locally owned boutique. By going local, you’ll find unique styles, enjoy a more personalized shopping experience, and have greater support for alterations and customizations—all while supporting small businesses who are the heart and soul of your community. Not only that: these local boutiques truly care more about you and your wedding! They know looking absolutely gorgeous on your big day matters and that their work helping you do so will reflect well on them.

Wedding dress shopping in the Main Line

We’re fortunate to have several high-end bridal boutiques in the Bryn Mawr and Main Line area, where your perfect gown awaits. If you’re looking forward to your special “Yes” moment, allow these boutiques to be a part of your big day so you’ll be styled to perfection. Reserve an appointment today to see the magic they can create!

Philly Bride

Old City’s Philly Bride is passionate about creating a positive and memorable bridal shopping experience. Carly, a former school teacher, purchased the boutique during the pandemic and has created a warm, inviting atmosphere for brides from all walks of life! She and her top-notch team of stylists will even arrange to have your dress cleaned, pressed, and preserved after your wedding.

Sabrina Ann

With locations in both Ardmore and West Chester, Sabrina Ann carries a range of new and resale bridalwear including designer samples, off-the-rack dresses, formal gowns, and bridal accessories. Owner Sabrina Sigler opened the consignment/resale boutique in 2004 with the goal of creating a shopping experience where value, service, and ambiance are prioritized. She and her experienced team of consultants can help you find your perfect look, on a budget.

La Bella Donna

In nearby Jenkintown, Le Bella Donna is a bridal boutique offering an unrivaled, specially-curated selection of gowns in a variety of sizes, silhouettes and price ranges. In addition to wedding dresses, they also offer Mother of the Bride/Groom dresses and tuxedos for the bridegroom. The shop, with its newly renovated private fitting rooms, offers an intimate, tranquil setting for brides and their guests, paired with personalized consultants/stylists who are patient, professional, and judgment-free. The best part? The shop is located just steps away from other stores and restaurants so your group can go from shopping to celebrating within minutes!

The Wedding Factor

Located in historic Old City, The Wedding Factor is a full-service bridal salon offering designer wedding dresses, formal gowns, plus-size wedding dresses, handmade veils, jewelry, headpieces and accessories from around the world. With five private dressing rooms, master seamstresses on staff for custom alterations, and knowledgeable bridal fashion consultants, The Wedding Factor delivers the ultimate full-service bridalwear experience.

The Ivory Concept

Their tagline says it all: “Unique gowns for the exceptional bride”. The Ivory Concept is an upscale boutique in Malvern specializing in designer dresses with a modern, boho vibe. Appointments are required, so you get a one-of-a-kind private shopping experience without feeling rushed or pressured. It’s also owned and managed by a mother-daughter duo who welcome you in as part of their family. Check out their exquisite Instagram feed and get swept away!

Van Cleve Bridal

Van Cleve Bridal is an award-winning full service bridal salon on the Main Line offering wedding dresses, evening wear, accessories, expert alterations and more! Owner Deborah Van Cleve has been in business for over 30 years, providing personalized service and an unbeatable selection of over 1,000 gowns. Deborah and her design consultants take the time to learn about each our of clients’ style preferences, event details, and budget. Their newly remodeled space is complete with a mini runway and full-mirror walls where you can relax with a glass of champagne.

And don’t forget….

Dress alterations or restoration

Nilah & Company is a Havertown-based group of dressmakers and tailors who have been making brides’ dreams come true for over 33 years! Currently a member and past president of the Custom Tailors and Designers Association of Philadelphia, Nilah was the first sole proprietor female to join in its 100 year history. She and her all-female team of artisans specialize in bridal gown alterations, vintage wedding gown restoration or transformation, gown cleaning and preservation, and custom wedding veils designed with expert level precision and skill.

Aesthetic procedures for face & body

Whether you’re a bride, a bridesmaid, or the mother of the bride or groom, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery in Bryn Mawr has many options to help you put your best foot forward for the big day. Double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor and our team of aesthetic experts provide a full selection of rejuvenating wedding treatments and cosmetic procedures for the Philadelphia and Main Line area.

To help refresh your skin and refine your shape, we can design a personalized timeline of nonsurgical treatments such as skin peels, laser resurfacing, light therapy (IPL), RF microneedling, HydraFacial, injectable dermal fillers, laser hair removal, or custom facials. With surgical options, we can additionally improve virtually any aspect of your appearance you wish to tune up, with procedures including SmartLipo®, upper lid blepharoplasty, or facelift.

In addition to being featured in a multi-page spread in Modern Luxury Weddings – Philadelphia, Dr. Claytor has been recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor and a Top Doctor of 2021 by Philadelphia Magazine. To set up your personal consultation and learn how Dr. Claytor can help you achieve your aesthetic goals for your upcoming wedding, call our practice at 610.527.4833 or reach out to us online today.