HAIR LOSS AND TRANSPLANTATION

Common causes for hair loss are genetics, traumatic styling, internal vitamin/mineral/hormone imbalances, and inflammatory diseases of the scalp that lead to permanent hair loss. Traditionally, medical treatments have been used to correct treatable forms of hair loss. Minoxidil and finasteride are used for genetic hair loss Topical corticosteroids, oral antibiotics, and scalp injections are used for styling related hair loss and inflammatory diseases. Replacement/correction of imbalances will correct metabolic causes for hair loss. Dr. Edwards will determine if any of these treatments are appropriate for you during your consultation.

Despite aggressive treatment options, some people will fail medical treatment and will be left with only surgical options for treatment. Hair transplantation is an option for appropriate candidates requiring surgical treatment. Hair transplantation involves redistribution of existing hair from the back of the head, to affected areas where hair is thin.

The technique that we use is called follicular unit micro-grafting. What this means is that we use microscopes to perform all parts of the dissection process. Using a microscope allows us to very closely sliver and then trim the grafts with minimal damage. The smaller size of the grafts allows for smaller incisions, greater density, faster healing, and a more natural result. Hair transplantation is a permanent step, so you must have realistic expectations. You can never recapture the density of hair you once had. The illusion of density and improvement with natural results are the key goals. A transplant does nothing to stop ongoing hair loss so you should consider a medical program to help prevent this from happening (e.g. Propecia®, Rogaine® and/or other treatments we have discussed or used previously).

You will have an incision in the back of your scalp after the donor strip is removed. The resulting scar will be hidden by existing hair and is usually quite thin although there is variability from person to person. The length of the scar is determined by the size of the transplant as well as hair density and characteristics. Recipient incisions generally do not cause scarring because of the very small needles or micro-blades we use to make the sites.

Most people find the surgery to be surprisingly easy. Along with local anesthesia, you will be given sedatives to help make you as comfortable as possible. The amount of time the procedure takes is variable and largely depends on the number of grafts. It is best to plan on all day. We take as long as is necessary to make sure the job is done right. We also recommend that you not drive yourself home after the surgery if possible.

Healing is generally quite rapid after the transplant. For about a week you can expect to have a small amount of scabbing. At this point some of the hair shafts will begin to shed and go into a resting phase. Regrowth generally begins after four months but the final results can take up to should be twelve months to become fully apparent. Actual results will vary and expectations will be discussed during your consultation.