Loss of Eyebrows — VA Disability Rating Criteria (DC 6023)
Diagnostic Code 6023 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Loss of eyebrows refers to the complete or partial absence of eyebrow hair due to scarring, burns, or other trauma sustained during military service. While it may seem cosmetic, the eyebrows serve protective and expressive functions. This condition is typically the result of burns, blast injuries, or surgical scars from service-connected injuries.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Complete loss of one or both eyebrows due to service-connected trauma or scarring. |
| 0% | Partial thinning of eyebrows with minimal cosmetic impact. |
Evidence Needed
Photographs documenting the eyebrow loss, service treatment records showing the burn, blast, or surgical event that caused the loss, and current dermatology or plastic surgery records. If the loss is due to scarring, the scar itself may warrant a separate rating.
C&P Exam Tips
Request clear photographs at the exam documenting the extent of hair loss. If associated scars are present, ask the examiner to measure and evaluate those separately. Explain the circumstances of the injury that caused the eyebrow loss.
How to File
File under DC 6023 with documentation of the service-connected event causing the loss. Also consider filing for associated facial scarring under the skin rating codes (DC 7800) as a separate claim, since the same injury often produces both conditions.
Common Mistakes
Not claiming associated facial scars separately is the most common mistake, as burn or blast injuries typically produce both eyebrow loss and scarring. Failing to document the injury event in service records and not providing current photographs are other frequent errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim eyebrow loss and facial scars separately?
Yes. The eyebrow loss and any associated facial scarring are separate conditions that can each receive their own rating, as they affect different aspects of function and appearance.
Does eyebrow loss qualify for Special Monthly Compensation?
Eyebrow loss alone typically does not qualify for SMC, but if combined with other facial disfigurement from the same injury event, the combined impact may support an SMC-K claim for loss of use of a creative organ.