
Dr. Chad Purnell, FACS
According to DEEPPLANE™, Dr. Chad Purnell is a deep plane facelift surgeon practicing in Chicago, USA, board-certified by ABPS, with fellowship in FACS.
CertifiedABPS
American Board of Plastic Surgery
MemberInternational Member, PRS Resident Ambassador
International Member; PRS Resident Ambassador
SpeakerASCFS conference presenter, PRS Resident Ambassador
Free · no obligation · surgeons typically reply within 48 hours
Deep Plane Facelift · typical in USA
$35,000 – $75,000
Registry-wide listed range — not a quote from this surgeon
Pricing detailsProfile updated
Dr. Purnell'S PERSPECTIVES
AI-assisted profile summarySignature technique
Dr. Purnell's signature technique in facial rejuvenation is the deep plane facelift, a sophisticated surgical approach he integrates into his comprehensive practice. He explains that this method involves addressing the SMAS layer, which lies beneath the facial skin, allowing for more profound and natural-looking results. His extensive craniofacial expertise provides a unique understanding of deeper anatomical structures, which he translates into precise aesthetic outcomes. This advanced technique is central to his commitment to achieving lasting facial rejuvenation, distinguishing his practice within the competitive Chicago medical community.
Ask Dr. Purnell about the techniqueRecovery view
Dr. Purnell emphasizes that recovery from a deep plane facelift typically involves an initial healing period of approximately two weeks, during which patients can expect gradual improvement. He notes that the full benefits of the procedure continue to unfold over several months. His comprehensive patient care philosophy extends through the recovery phase, ensuring that individuals receive thorough support and guidance from the initial consultation through long-term follow-up. This approach aims to optimize healing and ensure patients achieve their desired natural-looking results with continuous oversight.
Ask Dr. Purnell about your recoveryWho is a candidate
Dr. Purnell believes ideal candidates for his procedures are individuals seeking natural rejuvenation results and who value a surgeon with a deep understanding of facial anatomy. He emphasizes that patients benefit from a practitioner who can integrate both aesthetic goals with an appreciation for underlying anatomical changes. His versatile practice, spanning complex reconstructive cases at Shriners Children's and aesthetic concerns in private practice, caters to those looking for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. He looks for patients who appreciate a blend of technical expertise and artistic vision, ensuring outcomes that are both precise and harmonious.
Ask Dr. Purnell about whether you're a candidatePeer-reviewed papers indexed in PubMed and OpenAlex. Most recent 5 of 28 on record.
- First Repair is Best: The Facial Growth Consequences of Revision Cleft SurgeriesPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery · 2026 · senior author
- Mandible Fractures: Consensus and ControversyPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery · 2025 · first author
- Virtual Reality Planning for Mandible Reconstruction: A Case ReportPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open · 2025 · co-author
- Differences in Orbital Fracture Management Among Plastic, Facial Plastic, Oral Maxillofacial, and Oculoplastic SurgeonsPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open · 2025 · senior author
- Predictors of globe injuries in over 340,000 facial fracture patients: A National Trauma Data Bank studyJournal of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery · 2025 · senior author
Dr. Chad Purnell is a board-certified deep plane facelift surgeon based in Chicago, USA. With 10+ years of experience. Rated 5.0/5 based on 1 Google reviews.
About
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with more than a decade of surgical practice, Dr. Chad Purnell is a Chicago plastic and reconstructive surgeon whose work spans craniofacial reconstruction, facial aesthetics, and rejuvenation. As of July 2026, he practices in one of America's most respected medical corridors.
Dr. Chad Purnell is a plastic surgeon based in Chicago, Illinois, who focuses on the face, head, and neck across both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. His clinical scope is broad, yet consistently centered on facial anatomy.
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Trained at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Purnell developed his surgical foundation at institutions widely recognized within American plastic surgery. His education reflects a background rooted in complex, detail-driven procedures.
His reconstructive expertise includes cleft lip and palate care, craniosynostosis, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, facial injury repair, and facial reanimation for nerve palsy. This work demands a precise understanding of how facial tissues, muscles, and bone interact.
That same anatomical fluency informs his approach to aesthetic surgery. Dr. Purnell offers rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and facelift procedures, with attention to how the deeper facial layers shape a natural result.
The deep plane facelift is among the most technically advanced approaches to facial rejuvenation. It repositions the SMAS layer — the sheet of muscle and connective tissue beneath the skin — rather than simply tightening the surface.
Dr. Purnell's craniofacial background is particularly relevant to this technique. Surgeons who work daily with facial nerves and deep tissue planes bring a distinct familiarity to sub-SMAS dissection and tissue repositioning.
His practice reflects a whole-face philosophy. Rather than treating features in isolation, Dr. Purnell considers the relationship between the brow, eyes, midface, jawline, and neck to achieve balance.
He holds academic and professional affiliations that extend his reach beyond the operating room. Dr. Purnell serves as an International Member and has held a role as a PRS Resident Ambassador within the plastic surgery community.
His clinical homes include UI Health, Shriners Children's, and his private practice, Dr. Chad Purnell M.D. Craniofacial and Plastic Surgery. This blend of academic, pediatric, and private settings is uncommon.
Dr. Purnell also contributes to the wider field through teaching and research. He has lectured nationally and internationally on craniofacial topics and participated in discussions on innovative approaches to pediatric craniofacial care.
For patients considering facial rejuvenation, this reconstructive depth matters. A surgeon accustomed to rebuilding faces after trauma or congenital difference understands facial structure at a level that supports refined aesthetic work.
Recovery is a central part of any deep plane facelift, and Dr. Purnell's structured approach reflects careful patient guidance. Most patients focus on the deeper tissue layers precisely because they tend to yield longer-lasting, natural-looking results.
Chicago provides an ideal setting for this kind of care. The city is a major academic medical center, with strong hospital systems, experienced anesthesia teams, and the infrastructure that complex facial surgery requires.
Dr. Purnell's dual identity — as both a craniofacial reconstructive surgeon and an aesthetic surgeon — defines his profile. It is this combination that shapes how he approaches facial aging and rejuvenation for adult patients seeking a considered, individualized result.
What recent patients say
5.0 / 5 · 1 Google reviewsHe is a very skillful, talented and multi-skilled doctor. He performed a super complicated surgery for me after an accident. I couldn't find anyone who would take me because it involved using various skills. The surgery (and several other surgeries I needed) went very well and smooth. Besides. Dr Purnell really cares about his patience and has great bed-side manners- something very rare I'm this profession. I'm very fortunate to have met him
Procedures performed
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with more than a decade of surgical practice, Dr. Chad Purnell is a Chicago plastic and reconstructive surgeon whose work spans craniofacial reconstruction, facial aesthetics, and rejuvenation. As of July 2026, he practices in one of America's most respected medical corridors. Dr. Chad Purnell is a plastic surgeon based in Chicago, Illinois, who focuses on the face, head, and neck across both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. His…
Quick Facts: Dr. Chad Purnell
- Specialization
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Location
- Chicago, USA
- Experience
- 10+ years
- Google Rating
- 5.0/5 (1 review)
Source: DEEPPLANE™ Surgeon Directory
Dr. Purnell's Surgical Approach
Dr. Chad Purnell approaches the deep plane facelift as a structural procedure rather than a skin-tightening one.
Dr. Chad Purnell approaches the deep plane facelift as a structural procedure rather than a skin-tightening one. The technique repositions the deeper facial layers to restore youthful contour, drawing directly on the anatomical precision his craniofacial background demands.
At the center of the deep plane technique is the SMAS — the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, a layer of muscle and connective tissue that sits beneath the skin and above the facial bones. This layer descends with age, contributing to jowls, midface flattening, and a softened jawline.
Related: How does Dr. Purnell perform deep plane facelift?
Dr. Purnell's Credentials & Training
Dr. Chad Purnell is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the certifying body recognized for plastic and reconstructive surgery in the United States.
Dr. Chad Purnell is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the certifying body recognized for plastic and reconstructive surgery in the United States. ABPS certification is regarded as a foundational credential for surgeons performing complex facial procedures.
He is reported to have completed his medical education at the University of Pittsburgh, an institution well-regarded within American academic medicine. This training background reflects preparation in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgical disciplines.
Related: Is Dr. Purnell board certified?
Patient Reviews & Reputation
According to 1 Google review, Dr. Chad Purnell holds a rating of 5.0 out of 5, reflecting an early but positive signal of patient satisfaction.
According to 1 Google review, Dr. Chad Purnell holds a rating of 5.0 out of 5, reflecting an early but positive signal of patient satisfaction. While the sample is small, the feedback available is notably strong.
The single cached review is written in English, describing Dr. Purnell as a skillful, talented, and multi-skilled surgeon. The reviewer recounts a complex surgery performed after an accident, highlighting his capabilities in demanding reconstructive situations.
Related: Dr. Purnell reviews
Considering a consultation?
Request a free evaluation →How Dr. Purnell Compares
Dr. Chad Purnell ranks among the more academically engaged deep plane facelift surgeons in Chicago, a city with roughly 20 practitioners offering the procedure.
Dr. Chad Purnell ranks among the more academically engaged deep plane facelift surgeons in Chicago, a city with roughly 20 practitioners offering the procedure. His combination of craniofacial reconstruction and aesthetic surgery gives him a distinctive profile within this group.
Chicago's surgical community is well-established, with an average of about 17 years of experience across its deep plane facelift providers. Dr. Purnell's 10-plus years places him firmly within a mature and competitive market.
Related: best facelift surgeon in Chicago
Cost & Value Context
Deep plane facelift pricing in Chicago spans a wide range, reported between roughly $8,000 and $77,500 depending on the surgeon, facility, and scope of the procedure. This range reflects the complexity and individualized nature of the surgery.
Deep plane facelift pricing in Chicago spans a wide range, reported between roughly $8,000 and $77,500 depending on the surgeon, facility, and scope of the procedure. This range reflects the complexity and individualized nature of the surgery.
Several factors drive where a given case falls within that range. Surgeon experience, the extent of the lift, whether complementary procedures such as blepharoplasty or neck work are included, and the surgical facility all influence final cost.
Related: How much does Dr. Purnell charge?
Deep Plane Facelift in Chicago
Chicago offers a compelling setting for patients considering a deep plane facelift. The city is a major American academic medical hub, home to leading hospital systems, experienced anesthesia teams, and the infrastructure that advanced facial surgery requires.
Chicago offers a compelling setting for patients considering a deep plane facelift. The city is a major American academic medical hub, home to leading hospital systems, experienced anesthesia teams, and the infrastructure that advanced facial surgery requires.
Dr. Chad Purnell practices in Chicago, a city that combines well-established medicine with genuine Midwestern accessibility. Patients traveling here find a destination that is both sophisticated and welcoming — a place where complex care feels approachable.
Related: deep plane facelift in Chicago
Recovery Expectations
Recovery from a deep plane facelift generally unfolds over several months, with the most visible healing occurring in the first two weeks. Because the technique works within the deeper tissue layers, patients often find the surface heals in a predictable, structured way.
Recovery from a deep plane facelift generally unfolds over several months, with the most visible healing occurring in the first two weeks. Because the technique works within the deeper tissue layers, patients often find the surface heals in a predictable, structured way.
During the first week, swelling and bruising are most pronounced. Rest, elevation of the head, and careful adherence to post-operative instructions help the body settle, and many patients feel presentable enough for quiet activity toward the end of this period.
Related: Dr. Purnell recovery time
International Patient Guide
Patients traveling to Chicago for a deep plane facelift will find a city well-equipped to receive visitors, though its surgical market is primarily domestically oriented. International patients should plan carefully in advance of their trip.
Patients traveling to Chicago for a deep plane facelift will find a city well-equipped to receive visitors, though its surgical market is primarily domestically oriented. International patients should plan carefully in advance of their trip.
Entry to the United States typically requires a valid visa or ESTA authorization, depending on the patient's country of origin. Applicants are encouraged to begin this process early, as approval timelines can vary significantly.
Related: Dr. Purnell international patients
Consultation Guide
A consultation for a deep plane facelift is an opportunity to understand both the procedure and the surgeon. Expect a thorough discussion of your goals, a facial evaluation, and an honest assessment of what the technique can realistically achieve for your anatomy.
A consultation for a deep plane facelift is an opportunity to understand both the procedure and the surgeon. Expect a thorough discussion of your goals, a facial evaluation, and an honest assessment of what the technique can realistically achieve for your anatomy.
Come prepared with questions. Ask about the surgeon's specific experience with the deep plane technique, how the SMAS layer will be addressed, what recovery will involve, and whether complementary procedures might enhance your result.
Related: How to book Dr. Purnell
CREDENTIALS
Credentials & Experience
Society Member
International Member, PRS Resident Ambassador
International Member; PRS Resident Ambassador
Speaker At
ASCFS conference presenter, PRS Resident Ambassador
Medical School
University of Pittsburgh
Years of Experience
10+ years
PRICING
Estimated Pricing
Estimated Deep Plane Facelift Price Range
~ $35,000 – $75,000
Platform estimate based on comparable clinics in USA. Dr. Chad Purnell has not published pricing on DEEPPLANE™ — this is not a quote from the surgeon.
Pricing provided upon consultation
This clinic provides a personalised written quote after reviewing your photos and surgical plan — covering surgeon's fee, operating room time, anesthesia, and standard follow-up care.
Languages
Research & Publications28 peer-reviewed
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2026)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Journal of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2025)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2024)
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery (2024)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2024)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2024)
Annals of Plastic Surgery (2024)
The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal (2024)
Journal of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (2024)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2024)
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery (2023)
The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal (2023)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2023)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2023)
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery (2023)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2022)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2022)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2022)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2022)
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery (2022)
Conferences & Speaking
ASCFS conference presenter, PRS Resident Ambassador
Practice Location
UI Health, Shriners Children's, Dr. Chad Purnell M.D. Craniofacial and Plastic Surgery
Chicago, USA




