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.

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The Ponytail Academy Is Coming to Pittsburgh For “IFATS”

The Ponytail Academy is proud to partner with the International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science (IFATS) 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.

Key areas of focus include:

  • A review of advanced endoscopic facial rejuvenation principles.

  • Detailed instruction on synchronization—transforming technical movements into choreographed muscle memory.

  • Practical application of endoscopic techniques for the Temple, Brows, and Mid-face Dissection.

  • In-depth sessions on Fat Transfer to the Face.

Course Date:

Saturday, October 10, 2026

This course is currently sold out.

Want to join us at our next one? Sign up for our waitlist using the link below!

Join The Waitlist
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • Empty hospital or medical facility room with empty beds, monitors, chairs, and medical equipment.

    Sign-Up For Our Next Session

    This course in partnership with IFATS, The Ponytail Academy offers an intensive, hands-on course in the world-renowned Ponytail Lift™ Technique—focusing on tissue preservation and sculpting over conventional excision.

    This course is currently sold out. Secure your spot on the waitlist and be notified if space opens up or when new dates are announced, please sign up using the link below.

    Join Waitlist
  • 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.

    Learn More
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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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Two male surgeons in operating room wearing protective gowns, gloves, and masks. One surgeon is using a surgical instrument, while the other is observing. Both are focused on a procedure.
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