Short answer: The K Face Lift is Prof. Dr. Mehmet Veli Karaaltın's signature evolution of the deep plane facelift. Both lift the same anatomical layer — the SMAS and deep facial fat compartments — but the K Face Lift adds chordae-anchoring vectors and a vertical (not lateral) repositioning, which preserves the patient's natural expression and avoids the over-pulled look that older deep plane techniques can produce.
What is a deep plane facelift?
A classical deep plane facelift releases the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) from its deep attachments — the zygomatic, masseteric and mandibular ligaments — so the cheek and jawline can be repositioned as a single composite unit instead of pulling the skin alone. This is what produces a natural, long-lasting result and avoids the "windswept" look of older skin-only facelifts.
What is the K Face Lift?
The K Face Lift, developed by Prof. Dr. Karaaltın, is a refinement of the deep plane technique. Three things make it different:
- Vertical vector lift. The repositioning is upward along anatomical chordae, not pulled sideways toward the ear. This restores the youthful midface volume that has descended with age.
- Deep chordae anchoring. Instead of relying on SMAS sutures alone, the lift is fixed to deep anatomical chordae, which is what gives the result its longevity (typically 10–15 years).
- Zero skin tension. The skin redrapes naturally over the new deep-tissue position, which means no scar widening and no distortion of the hairline or earlobe.
K Face Lift vs deep plane facelift: side-by-side
| Aspect | Classical Deep Plane | K Face Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Lift vector | Lateral (towards the ear) | Vertical (anatomical) |
| Fixation | SMAS sutures | Deep chordae anchoring |
| Skin tension | Mild–moderate | None |
| Midface lift | Indirect | Direct, primary goal |
| Expression preservation | Good | Excellent |
| Longevity | 8–12 years | 10–15 years |
| Recovery to social | 14–21 days | 10–14 days |
Who is each one for?
A classical deep plane facelift is an excellent option for patients with moderate jawline laxity who want a single, well-established procedure. The K Face Lift is the right choice when the priority is restoring midface volume, achieving a more vertical and natural rejuvenation, and protecting expression — particularly for patients who are concerned about looking "operated on".
Recovery, downtime and longevity
Most international patients stay in Istanbul for 7 days. Stitches are removed on day 6 or 7. Bruising and swelling settle over 10–14 days, at which point patients are comfortable returning to social activities. Final results stabilise at 3 months. Because the K Face Lift uses deep anchoring with no skin tension, results typically hold for 10–15 years.
Frequently asked questions
Is the K Face Lift the same as a deep plane facelift?
No. The K Face Lift is built on the deep plane principle but uses a vertical lift vector, chordae anchoring, and zero skin tension. The deep plane facelift is the broader technique category; the K Face Lift is Prof. Dr. Karaaltın's proprietary refinement of it.
Will I look "pulled" or "windswept" after a K Face Lift?
No. Because the lift is vertical and the skin redrapes without tension, the result is a natural, rested appearance — not a stretched one. Preserving expression is one of the core design goals of the technique.
How long do K Face Lift results last?
Typically 10–15 years, longer than most SMAS or classical deep plane techniques, because the lift is anchored to deep anatomical chordae rather than to the SMAS layer alone.
How much downtime should I plan for?
Plan 7 days in Istanbul and a further 7 days at home. Most patients return to social activities by day 10–14. Strenuous exercise can resume at 4 weeks.
Am I a candidate for the K Face Lift?
The K Face Lift suits patients in their mid-40s to late 60s who have midface descent, jawline laxity or early neck laxity, and who want a natural, expression-preserving rejuvenation. Suitability is confirmed in a video or in-person consultation.
How much does a K Face Lift cost in Istanbul?
K Face Lift pricing is significantly lower than equivalent deep plane facelift pricing in the UK, US or Switzerland while delivering equal or superior technique. Exact pricing is given after a consultation because it depends on whether the procedure is combined with neck lift, blepharoplasty, fat grafting or other adjuncts.
Next step
If you would like a personalised assessment of whether the K Face Lift or a classical deep plane facelift is right for you, request a free video consultation through the contact page or message the clinic directly on WhatsApp at +90 546 553 32 85.
Considering this procedure?
Book a private consultation with Prof. Dr. Mehmet Veli Karaaltın for a personalised surgical plan.
Speak to the clinic
Patients travel from the UK, Ireland and the United States for treatment in Istanbul. Video consultations are held before you book any travel.
Teşvikiye, Sakayık Sk. No:47
34365 Şişli / Istanbul, Turkey