Dr. Epstein is one of if not the world’s foremost eyebrow transplant surgeon with more than 22 years of experience in permanently restoring natural-appearing aesthetic eyebrows. As you can see from his revealing portfolio of before/after photos, he is unique in his ability to consistently create natural-looking results that enhance facial features. His work has been featured in numerous media stories and published in scientific articles and textbook chapters, as well as been presented in multiple lectures on his techniques at national and international meetings.
I have done more than 1800 of these procedures. And working with my partner Dr. Anthony Bared, whom I personally trained, we are able to offer this procedure to a greater number of patients
Dr. Jeffrey Epstein
Achieving Nothing Short of Excellence
Natural-Looking Eyebrows
Eyebrow transplantation or Eyebrow transplants is one of the most aesthetically challenging procedures to perform, but when done by an expert, can be truly natural looking. The grafts are in most cases obtained by a state-of-the-art FUE approach, with the most important step being the meticulous creation of the recipient sites that determine the direction and angulation of growth, as well as the aesthetic shape of natural appearing eyebrows that complement and are in harmony with the patient’s facial features. Through the technique Dr. Epstein has developed in the performing of more than 2,000 of these procedures, he along with his highly-experienced eyebrow team of assistants are able to carry-out his vision for the most aesthetic results, with the surgeon having complete control of the direction, angulation, and pattern of hair growth.
Appropriate Candidacy
Though one may not notice when he/she has full and well-shaped eyebrows, it’s very easy to identify if your eyebrows have become (or have been for a lifetime) too thin or even are practically absent. Whether the result of prior plucking or electrolysis, genetics, thinning with age, or certain medical conditions, in most cases the eyebrows can be permanently restored to look natural and full.
Due to developments in hair transplantation techniques, with particularly Dr. Epstein leading those applied to eyebrow restoration over the past 20 years, eyebrow transplantation is not only possible but when performed properly can provide beautiful results. Whether you’ve gone through permanent hair loss in the area or are starting to experience thinning due to over-plucking or genetic issues, an eyebrow transplant can restore your eyebrows.
Why Have An Eyebrow Transplant?
Eyebrow Tattoo or Daily Makeup?
There are other methods of making eyebrows appear fuller, such as with a permanent tattoo or semipermanent microblading, or daily makeup application, but they have their drawbacks, one of which is that they are not natural solutions to your problem. As an eyebrow transplant takes the hair directly from your head, the hairs are permanent and can be done to appear as close as possible to what the patient desires.
Another advantage of the procedure is that it is virtually painless, and takes approximately 5 days from which to recover. This is true no matter whether the entire eyebrow or portions of the eyebrow are being restored.
Regrowth rates of the transplanted hairs tend to be quite high, although the occasional patient chooses to have a second procedure to achieve greater density.
Eyebrow Hair Transplant Before and After
* All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
Are You A Candidate?
The most common reason patients undergo an eyebrow transplant is to restore a more natural shape or improved density due to prior overplucking. Thinning due to getting older or a consequence of anemia or low thyroid levels is also a common reason, as is simply being born with thin eyebrows. Other indications include scarring from prior cancer surgery or trauma, or undesirable results caused by a prior less-than-ideal performed transplant. In fact, Dr. Epstein has particular expertise in these trauma and reparative cases, due to the enormous benefits it can provide to the patient. Some of these trauma case patients are kids in their pre-teens who have borne the scars of prior dog bites and other causes. Ethnic hair characteristics such as very curly hairs or thick straight hairs pose certain challenges, but these are not uncommon circumstances for Dr. Epstein who is able to still achieve impressive natural-appearing results.
The Realistic Goal of Eyebrow Surgery
The patient needs to understand that the realistic goal of surgery is not necessarily perfection (although that is always strived for) but a significant improvement. The occasional patient will want a second procedure a year or more later to achieve greater density and or to make a minor change to the shape, however, the great majority- over 90% – of our patients undergo just a single procedure.
The procedure can be performed on patients ranging in age from (mature) nine-year-olds to those in their 70s. This is a safe and minimally invasive procedure. Prior tattoo or microblading is not a contraindication to the procedure being successful, although in some patients with scarring from prior tattoos there is a risk of a lower percentage of hair regrowth- in these cases, Dr. Epstein will make some slight alterations in his technique to optimize regrowth. Finally, the patient must understand the need for regular trimming of the transplanted hairs, as these are scalp donor hairs and will usually continue to grow. Also if the donor hairs come from a scalp that has or is at risk of turning gray, these hairs will be similarly be gray in the eyebrows.
Consultation Options
IN PERSON
You can meet with Dr. Epstein in the Miami office if you live in or are visiting South Florida. Here you can have a chance to discuss your goals and undergo a full evaluation as well as get a true “feel” for the professionalism and focus of the office that always keeps patient comfort and safety in mind. Our office is in South Miami close to Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Downtown Miami, and Miami Beach, and 20 minutes from Miami International Airport. The building provides covered underground parking. Please be sure to bring your parking ticket for validation. The $300 consult fee gets applied to your procedure.
BY WEBCAM
Dr. Epstein is no stranger to webcams, having provided hundreds of patient consultations over the past ten years. Today, this has become the most popular method for patients to “meet” Dr. Epstein, especially considering that most patients are traveling from out of town. Your consult can be performed just like a regular in-office consultation, with the doctor discussing with you your goals and explaining his recommendations in a formal manner from the comfort of your home or office. The most common formats for the webcam are FaceTime or Zoom, but other modalities are available. The $300 consult fee gets applied to your procedure.
BY PHOTO REVIEW
This is an easy way to have your case evaluated at no charge. By sending your photos, along with information on your age, hair loss history, any prior therapies or procedures, family history of hair loss, and your goals, Dr. Epstein can provide his recommendations and advice. If desired, once you receive his recommendations, you can have a webcam or in-office consultation to learn more, however, by photo review you will have the opportunity to ask questions and speak with his assistant Roxy or Dannette who will be able to guide you through this process. Scheduling for your procedure can then proceed directly with you meeting the doctor the morning of or day before the procedure.
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Eyebrow Hair Transplant Procedure
An Ideal Balance of Density and Naturalness
One of the best aspects of an eyebrow transplantation is that the procedure in our experienced hands is consistently performed to the highest standards that have been developed over the past 20 years. Depending on the extent of what you want to be done, whether a small amount of restoration in order to cover a scar or a full restoration to thick eyebrows, the procedure can involve the transplanting of anywhere from 50 to as many as 400 grafts per eyebrow, with each graft containing typically one or two hairs, with occasionally when indicated three hairs grafts utilized as well. This is a true aesthetic procedure, with every step that will determine the final outcome all personally performed by Dr. Epstein. This includes:
- Designing the eyebrow, with patient input, to be assured that there is not only symmetry but that the shape complements the individual’s facial and eye region and that meets the patient’s goals. Most patients take some oral sedation, and for the anesthesia injections ProNox(R) laughing gas is provided if desired. The procedure proceeds painlessly. If desired, twilight intravenous sedation is offered.
- Graft harvesting – usually FUE technique- and graft dissection. It is essential that the proper combination of one, two, and even occasionally three hair grafts when indicated are used to achieve the ideal balance of density and naturalness. Note that after years of experience, Dr. Epstein has determined that most eyebrows are better restored using primarily two hair grafts rather than exclusively single hair grafts. All dissection is performed under the binocular microscope.
- Making each recipient site so that the desired angle and pattern of hair growth is achieved, and that the recipient sites follow the design chosen. Using 0.5mm blades custom-cut by our office assures that these recipient sites can be densely packed with the least amount of trauma to the existing eyebrow hairs, essentially zero scarring, and the greatest control by the surgeon of proper flat angulation of hair growth.
- Graft placement so that each graft is placed so that the hair curl complements the desired direction of growth and that the grafts placed actuate the desired final result according to the recipient sites.
Dr. Epstein Explains the Procedure
Natural Results in Eyebrow Transplants
The donor hairs are typically removed from usually the back of the head in an area selected for ideal hair curl, color, and texture, using either the FUE technique (most common) or occasionally the FUT/strip approach. The decision as to technique will be determined by you and the doctor, depending on how you wear your hair, your ethnicity, and your goals and concerns. Sometimes hairs will be taken from lower down in the back of the head as indicated in order to obtain finer hairs. The donor area can be shaved so that in most cases only the lower half of the back of the head is shaved, or “tunnels” of shaved areas are made which are easily concealed by longer hair above them. While the grafts are prepared under microscopes by our specialized eyebrow team (who have on average assisted on over 1000 eyebrow transplant procedures), the doctor will make all of the recipient sites, which will then determine the direction and angulation of growth. After all recipient sites are filled, more recipient sites will be made to achieve refinements and enhancement of shape, symmetry, and density. This process repeats until the surgeon is fully satisfied- as is the patient- with the final appearance.
Eyebrow Shape and Density.
The grafts will then be placed one at a time into each recipient site, a process supervised by your surgeon while our specialized eyebrow assistants are the experts in performing this step. Several hours later, with most of the hairs transplanted, the eyebrows will be checked (and re-checked as many times as necessary) to make sure that both the patient and doctor are happy with the shape and density.
The procedure is not completed until the very best eyebrows possible are created. Depending on how many hairs are transplanted, the procedure typically takes four hours. Patients can leave the office, expecting little discomfort in the donor area.
Eyebrow Transplant Recovery
The recovery is typically painless and easy. The tiny crusts around each transplanted hair fall out usually within five days, and some redness to pinkness is to be expected for the first four days or so, after which typically the lessening pinkness can be concealed with makeup. The occasional patient will have rather significant bruising and swelling around the eyes for the first three days, but most have only mild amounts. Most patients actually look great the 5th day (once the crusts have fallen out but the transplanted hairs are present) through the 12th to 14th day after which in most cases the transplanted hairs fall out. No sutures are needed in FUE, and if FUT was performed the donor area sutures dissolve at several weeks, leaving a fine line scar, or if done by FUE, no linear scar at all.
The transplanted hairs will fall out at around two to three weeks, then start to regrow at three to four months. Over the next six months, the eyebrows become fuller and fuller. Because the donor hairs come from the scalp most commonly, they require trimming usually every week to 10 days, and sometimes a bit of grooming is required as well.
There are very few risks, but they can include prolonged pinkness, and lower than expected regrowth of the transplanted hairs (highly unusual in our hands). The occasional patient chooses to undergo a second procedure a year or more later to achieve greater density or to make minor refinements in shape or size.
Real Patient Testimonials
Eyebrow Transplantation FAQs
The following questions are some of the more commonly asked questions when it comes to eyebrow transplantation, all of which you should know if you’re considering the procedure.
WHAT IS AN EYEBROW TRANSPLANT?
A procedure in which a plastic surgeon removes hair grafts from the scalp and implants the follicles into the eyebrow. The grafts usually come from the back of the head, and the transplant includes the follicle to ensure natural and healthy growth down the road.
It’s important to note that once hair grafts are removed, they need to be placed in special graft storage solution before being implanted successfully. You’ll find the procedure to be painless, as a local anesthetic is administered and many patients take an oral sedative.
HOW MANY TYPES OF EYEBROW SHAPES ARE THERE?
Everyone has a unique set of features, but certain eyebrow characteristics can be found in many people. Five standard brow types are most common: flat, curved, round, soft angle, and angled. We have the expertise to combine your desired results with a realistic outcome that’ll look as natural as possible.
WHY ARE MY EYEBROWS THINNING?
The human body is undeniably complex, and there could be several medical issues causing your eyebrows to become thinner. Some of the most common reasons include overplucking, genetics, a nutritional deficiency, or changes in hormones. Thinning eyebrows can also indicate an increase in stress, low thyroid levels, skin disorders, or even physical trauma to the localized area.
WHAT CAUSES EYEBROW HAIR LOSS?
Besides those listed above, eyebrow hair loss can occur for many reasons, including alopecia, eczema, psoriasis, thyroid issues, and seborrheic dermatitis. And this still doesn’t cover the complete list of potential causes. Lifestyle choices can also factor into eyebrow hair loss: poor diet and even drug abuse can exacerbate the issue. However, you don’t have to be doomed to hair loss forever, as you’ll find there are many treatments available to get your eyebrows back to their natural look.
HOW LONG DO BROW TRANSPLANTS LAST?
Thankfully, brow transplants provide long-term results and are a permanent solution for those looking for fuller eyebrows. The FUE technique can do wonders for hair transplants, and Dr. Epstein is internationally known for this technique. It’s common to start seeing growth anywhere from three to six months after the procedure, and you should be able to see your results by around 10 months.
For your eyebrows to reach full growth potential, you must take proper care of them while they heal. If you don’t follow the aftercare instructions the doctor gives you, it could lead to suboptimal results.
ARE EYEBROW TRANSPLANTS PAINFUL?
The procedure is painless. Many patients will also choose to distract themselves with music or their favorite TV show to pass the time. We will walk you through every step of the procedure before beginning so that you’ll know what to expect during every aspect of your visit.
WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE AFTER BROW RESTORATION OR TRANSPLANT?
After the procedure the recovery process is surprisingly fast; however, there are still a few rules that you’ll need to follow. You’ll notice that transplanted hairs will start to fall out a few weeks after your procedure, and you’ll experience mild scabbing for the first three to five days. Your new hair will start to be visible between four and six months. Even though a handful of care requirements are associated with recovery, they aren’t complicated, and healing is much faster than expected for most people.
DOES INSURANCE PAY FOR EYEBROW TRANSPLANTS?
Unfortunately, insurance companies consider brow restoration non-medical cosmetic surgery procedures. Since eyebrow hair loss doesn’t affect your physical and mental health, the cost of these procedures is an out-of-pocket expense—but that doesn’t mean you can’t utilize financing as another option. Before you commit to anything, we’ll make sure you understand the total cost of the procedure so you can plan accordingly ahead of time.
CAN YOU GET BROW RESTORATION DONE AFTER MICROBLADING?
You most definitely can, but if you recently had eyebrow microblading, it’s important to wait at least six months before pursuing brow restoration or transplants. We may also suggest some pre-care routines leading up to your appointment to ensure the health of your brows and skin. You should not undergo a brow transplant shortly after receiving a microblading treatment. It’s vital that you share all these details with Dr. Epstein so he can better serve you throughout the process.
HOW LONG DOES AN EYEBROW TRANSPLANT SURGERY TAKE?
The time it takes to complete an eyebrow transplant is relatively short and may vary, but it should only take about four to six hours from beginning to end. The time it takes depends on how many follicles are transplanted. Completion time can also vary depending on the cosmetic surgeon’s expertise, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing where to get the procedure done. We are well equipped to provide stellar results, and we work efficiently to ensure a seamless experience for every patient.
HOW LONG WILL EYEBROW TRANSPLANTS LAST?
The length of this procedure partly depends on how many hairs are being transplanted. If it's on the lower end, the transplantation should take two to three hours. If it's on the higher end, then three to five hours is likely. The reason it takes this amount of time is due to the fact that each individual hair must be precisely placed onto the eyebrow.
WHAT IS THE CLOSEST EYEBROW HAIR TRANSPLANT CLINIC TO ME?
If you live in Miami or nearby, the Foundation for Hair Restoration is conveniently located at 6280 Sunset Drive, Suite 504, Miami, FL 33143, and Dr. Epstein’s is a Miami eyebrow transplant specialist with years of experience in permanently restoring hair to eyebrows.
WHO IS THE BEST EYEBROW HAIR TRANSPLANT SPECIALIST IN MIAMI?
Dr. Epstein is acclaimed for his work in natural-looking hair restoration, in particular FUE hair transplants and eyebrow restoration. With over 28 years of experience in hair restoration surgery with a background as a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Epstein has helped thousands of patients cope with hair loss and restore their confidence. Unusual for his field, Dr. Epstein holds board certifications in the fields of facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology/head and neck surgery is a Diplomate of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, and is a Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (FISHRS) and of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Dr. Epstein is the leading specialist at his practice located in Miami, FL.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
The recovery time for this procedure is typically five to seven days. While small crusts will appear around each hair during the first week and leave pink spots once they fall off, the pink typically fades over the next few weeks and leaves the area looking natural.
DO EYEBROW TRANSPLANTS LOOK NATURAL?
If done properly, absolutely. It is important that the surgeon pays particular attention to the angle at which they are creating the recipient sites for each individual follicle to be placed because this will dictate not only the shape of the eventual eyebrows but also the density of the transplanted hairs and most importantly the direction in which the hairs eventually grow. Particularly with the “head” of the eyebrow toward the bridge of the nose, it is important that the hairs typically grow more vertically and of course very close to the skin instead of perpendicular to the skin. As we get closer and closer to the “tail” of the eyebrow, then it is important for them to grow more toward the ears.
HOW SOON CAN I RETURN TO WORK?
In general, you can return to work immediately three days after the procedure. However, you may want to wait five to seven days for most if not all of the signs that you had the procedure done to disappear.
Why choose Dr. Epstein
- Dr. Epstein first attended Swarthmore College, then moved on to medical training at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.
- Trained in head and neck surgery/ear, nose, and throat at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, earning a fellowship from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery during this time.
- Then trained in the San Francisco Bay area and was awarded the Jack Anderson Memorial Award for achieving the highest score in the nation on his board exams.
- Has been recognized for many years as one of the Best Surgeons in America, and he has been continuously listed for years in Castle Connelly’s Top Doctor Guide, an unbiased rating of doctors in many different specialties.
- Founder and Director of the Foundation for Hair Restoration and Plastic Surgery.
- Unusual for his field, Dr. Epstein holds triple board certifications in the fields of hair restoration, facial plastic surgery, and otolaryngology (head and neck surgery), and is a Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
- He is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Miami, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and was previously the President of the Florida Society of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- To give back to the community, Dr. Epstein provides pro bono reconstructive surgery to children, veterans, and other people in need.