One of the biggest misconceptions in the hair restoration industry is once men are bald the time has passed to consider restoration procedures. The truth is many men who believe they are excluded from hair restoration surgery can actually undergo successful treatments and find their confidence restored once again.
Determining Eligibility
Hair loss is typically caused by a combination of factors. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, hair loss is most frequently caused by aging, hormonal fluctuations, and/or a family history of baldness.
As a general rule, the earlier you start to lose your hair, the more hair loss you’ll suffer. Male pattern baldness in particular can start as early as adolescence. However, doctors often advise against getting hair restoration surgery too early on. The reasoning is because hair loss patterns can often be difficult to predict.
When setting up a consultation to discuss hair restoration surgery, your specialist will examine your scalp carefully to determine your eligibility. Using a densitometer, the surgeon can measure hair density.
The elasticity of your scalp will also help better determine your candidacy. If your hair follicles are still active, even if they are just producing wispy strands of baby hair, that’s a good sign of your eligibility for treatment. The amount of donor hair available will determine whether your surgeon recommends the procedure or not.
Even when bald, modest goals may be achievable such as the restoration of the front hairline and some grafts placed strategically behind the hairline.
For those who are completely bald, you’re not out of options. New surgical techniques have allowed for transplantation using body hair. With Advanced Follicular Unit Extraction, surgeons are able to harvest large amounts of follicles for restorative purposes.
This has allowed for body hair to be transplanted to the scalp. A lot of success has been found with patients who have received coarser hair transplants derived from areas like the beard.
Hair Restoration Procedure Basics
Hair restoration surgery is an advanced procedure allowing a doctor to surgically graft hair to a patient’s scalp. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery warns against latching onto the idea that modern techniques look like the “plugs” used decades ago.
The latest procedures involve using small grafts close together on the head to create a natural look. Your goals for hair loss treatment can be discussed in depth with your specialist.
For instance, a man in his 50s may want a more natural look and not request a full hair of head reminiscent of a man in his 20s. The type of hair being replaced will also affect the final look such as the texture and color.
No matter your age or level of hair loss, always remember it’s never too late to see out help. Work side by side with your doctors to develop a hair restoration plan that will achieve the results you’ve been longing for.
Are You Experiencing Hair Loss?
Dr. John Frank, MD offers hair transplants, eyebrow transplants, and a variety of other hair restoration services. To learn more about keeping your hair healthy and full, request a Frank & Honest Hair Consultation today.
