Loss of Eyebrows — VA Disability Rating Criteria (DC 6023)
Diagnostic Code 6023 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
DC 6023 is a single-figure code. The entry in 38 CFR 4.79 reads "Loss of eyebrows, complete, unilateral or bilateral — 10." One criterion, one percentage: the loss has to be complete, and the figure is the same whether one eyebrow or both are lost. Partial loss or thinning does not meet that criterion. Under 38 CFR 4.31, where the schedule does not provide a zero percent evaluation for a code, a zero percent evaluation is assigned when the requirements for a compensable evaluation are not met. Loss of eyebrows refers to the 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% | Loss of eyebrows, complete, unilateral or bilateral. This is the only evaluation the code assigns, and the schedule draws no distinction between one eyebrow and both. Where the loss is not complete, 38 CFR 4.31 provides for a 0 percent evaluation. |
Evidence Needed
Photographs documenting the eyebrow loss and showing whether it is complete, 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. Another is leaving the record unclear on whether the loss is complete, since that word is the whole of the criterion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim eyebrow loss and facial scars separately?
Yes. DC 6023 rates complete loss of the eyebrows, and facial scars from the same injury are claimed under the skin codes, such as DC 7800 for scars or other disfigurement of the head, face, or neck, which assigns from 10 percent for one characteristic of disfigurement up to 80 percent. Each evaluation rests on its own criteria.
Does eyebrow loss qualify for Special Monthly Compensation?
Not on its own terms. In 38 CFR 4.79 the entries footnoted for review of entitlement to special monthly compensation under 38 CFR 3.350 are certain visual acuity and visual field entries; DC 6023 carries no such footnote. Its single evaluation is 10 percent.