Shaping The Future of Plastic Surgery

The Ponytail Academy is the only place that you can learn the Ponytail Lift™ Technique from it’s creator,
world-renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Chia Chi Kao.

Welcome to The Ponytail Academy

  • Group of medical professionals and students gathered around a patient in a hospital or clinical setting, with some wearing masks and examination gowns, focused on a procedure.

    About The Ponytail Academy

    World-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Chia Chi Kao founded Ponytail Academy to teach his Ponytail Lift™ technique, an innovative, minimally invasive procedure offering discreet, natural results. The academy provides hands-on training under Dr. Kao's mentorship, focusing on advanced techniques in facial contouring, fat grafting, and lifting methods. This program equips surgeons to deliver exceptional, personalized enhancements.

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    Sign-Up For Our Next Session

    The Ponytail Academy is proud to partner with The Aesthetic Society to present this highly specialized cadaver dissection course. Designed for surgeons ready to elevate their expertise, this program
    offers an intensive immersion into the world-renowned Ponytail Lift™ Technique. During this in-depth course, participants will engage in expert didactic lectures and hands-on practice, focusing on preservation and sculpting rather than conventional excision.

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  • A group of medical professionals in surgical gowns and gloves gathered around a patient during a medical procedure, with a surgeon performing the procedure while others observe.

    What Is The Ponytail Lift™ Technique?

    The Ponytail Lift™ technique is performed endoscopically through four small incisions discreetly hidden within the hairline. This approach elevates the cheeks, brow, and jawline to create a natural, more youthful appearance without visible scars. By employing specialized techniques — including targeted fat injections and non-excisional lifting methods — the procedure rejuvenates the face while minimizing recovery time and downtime.

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Important
Message From Dr. Kao

Have you ever wondered about the vision and driving purpose behind the Ponytail Academy?

In a new message, our founder, Dr. Chia Chi Kao, shares the personal journey and core philosophies that inspired him to create this unique institution. He reflects on the moments that defined his career
and his unwavering belief in empowering fellow surgeons through shared knowledge.

We invite you to read his important message to discover the passion and principles
the Ponytail Academy was built upon.

Read Dr. Kao's Message

Ponytail Academy Testimonials

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Upcoming Courses

  • A black and white photo of a pier extending over the ocean with a large Ferris wheel and amusement park rides on the right side. The sky has scattered clouds, and a few people are walking on the beach.

    Ponytail Academy - Advanced Course

    Santa Monica, CA
    February 21-23, 2026
    Attendance By Invite Only

    Wait List
  • Black and white photo of a city skyline with tall skyscrapers reflected in water.

    Ponytail Academy at The Aesthetic Meet

    Boston, MA
    May 14th, 2026
    Intermediate Level Course

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Three surgeons wearing protective gear, including magnifying glasses, masks, and gloves, performing a surgery in an operating room.
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