Hair Restoration – Hair Replacement Surgery
There are few issues that are as widespread and bothersome as hair loss. Although it is quite common, men are consistently frustrated by thinning hair and baldness. Poor nutrition, stress, hormones, and heredity are the chief culprits for this condition. In some cases, their hair quality and coverage can be improved with non-surgical options such a growth factors like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies, oral finasteride, and topical minoxidil or light therapy; but more often than not most men are left only with surgical options such as hair transplants.
Introduction
In the past, taking segments of hair from one part of the scalp and transplanting it in thinning or balding areas created unnatural patterns. Fortunately, hair transplant techniques have improved considerably since then. Today, a skilled cosmetic surgeon can provide permanent results that will be undetectable by even the most skilled barber or hairstylist. And if a scar remains, laser therapies and/or micropigmentation are options for improvement of the remaining visible scar.
Who Is a Candidate for Hair Transplant?
- A man who has healthy hair on his head in an area that can be harvested for transplant
- A man who is in good overall health
- A man who is not taking herbal supplements or prescription medication that may impact healing
Who Is Not a Candidate for Hair Transplant?
- A man who demands immediate results – final results of hair transplantation may not be apparent until 18 months later
- A man who is unable to afford hair transplant surgery and subsequent surgeries
- A man who has health problems that impact his ability to heal
HAIR TRANSPLANT Procedure
- When done by an experienced, highly-skilled cosmetic surgeon, hair transplant surgery is likely to result in a natural head of hair.
- Transplanted hairs will fall out after transplantation but will grow back within a few months.
- The donor area and transplantation areas are treated with anesthesia.
- The donor hairs are harvested and prepared for transplantation.
- The hairs are transplanted.
- The incision sites are closed.
- In most cases, the scalp will be wrapped or bandaged for a day or two during the initial healing stage.
- As the transplanted hairs heal, they may scab.
- After the transplant process is complete, the hairs will begin to grow, and will appear natural within 18 months.
- It is very important that you follow your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions carefully.
- You will be told what to expect, and when you can wash your hair and resume normal activities.
- Post-treatment therapy such as oral vitamins or finasteride, topical minoxidil, PRP and stem cell therapies, light therapy, should all be initiated soon after transplantation at your cosmetic surgeon’s discretion.
Notes
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
Are you considering a Hair Transplant? Visit our Find a Surgeon Directory to find a highly-qualified cosmetic surgeon near you.
Reviewed by Jason Emer, MD, FAAD, FAACS, who specializes in cosmetic dermatology and body contouring in West Hollywood, California.