Premature hair loss can be embarrassing, stressful, and affect your self-esteem. If you are experiencing hair loss, you should know that you are not alone:
- By age 35, two-thirds of American men suffer some degree of hair loss.
- By age 50, 85% of American men have significantly thinning hair.
The good news is that the condition is reversible for most men.
Hair Replacement by Dr. James Aronovitz – Before / After
Over-the-Counter (OTC) vs. Surgical Hair Restoration Options
Male-pattern baldness (Androgenetic alopecia) is the most common form of hair loss for men and women. Androgenetic alopecia can be caused by hormonal or hereditary factors. Currently, the FDA has approved Minoxodil (Brand name: Rogaine) as a nonprescription OTC option for this type of hair loss.
When consulting with a doctor, they may prescribe Finasteride (Brand name: Propecia) as an FDA approved solution. Finasteride is only available as a prescription, not over the counter.
OTC Hair Restoration:
You’ve seen various commercials for popular hair restoration creams and solutions. But what are they and when should you consider using them?
FDA approved topical formulations are available over the counter for the treatment of male pattern baldness. These products have either 2% or 5% of Minoxidil as the active ingredient. Both 2% and 5% Minoxidil formulations are indicated for males. Only 2% Minoxidil is indicated for women due to an increased risk of facial hair growth.
When choosing an OTC hair restoration product, always consult with your physician or a hair restoration surgeon/specialist. Although this may be effective for you, you want to ensure you’re using the product properly, that discontinuation of the product could result in quickly reverting to your previous pre-treatment baldness.
What are the Types of Hair Replacement Surgery?
Depending on the type of hair you have, the severity of hair loss, and other questions a hair restoration surgeon will discuss with you, there are various surgical methods to consider:
- Grafting – Including FUT & FUE Hair replacement
- Scalp Reduction
- Flap Surgery
- Tissue Expansion
Am I a Candidate for Hair Replacement Surgery?
If you meet any of these criteria then you are probably a candidate for hair transplant surgery:
- Are in good general health.
- Have retained some areas of good hair growth on your scalp.
- Are realistic about the results of hair replacement surgery.
An in-depth consultation with a hair restoration surgeon will help determine your candidacy.
The Hair Replacement Surgery Procedure
Most forms of hair replacement surgery are outpatient and involve local or general anesthesia. The patient usually remains awake throughout the procedure. Many procedures allow for the patient to take bathroom and snack breaks, read, watch television or listen to music through headphones.
Although most procedures are finished in just a few hours, some procedures require multiple visits.
In Michigan state you are not legally permitted to drive when under the influence of anesthesia, so plan ahead to have a ride home from your procedure.
Is Hair Replacement Surgery Painful?
Some passing discomfort during and after the procedure is to be expected, but most hair replacement surgeries do not cause lasting pain. If necessary, the surgeon will provide you with a prescription to relieve the pain during the initial weeks of your recovery.
What Are the Potential Risks of Hair Replacement Surgery?
Although seldom, when undergoing a hair restoration surgery, the potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Patchy hair growth
- Failed grafts
If you suffer from any of the above items after your surgery, immediately call the hair restoration surgeon who performed the procedure.
What Results Should I Expect from Hair Replacement Surgery?
The benefits of hair replacement and restoration surgery speak for themselves:
- Eliminates baldness.
- Creates a new, attractive hairline.
- Improves your appearance.
- Elevates your confidence and self-esteem.
Most hair replacement is seamless and unnoticeable. Hair transplantation is detectable only when the procedure is carried out by a physician lacking the necessary skill and experience. Finding the right practitioner is a vital step in the process of achieving the appearance you want.
That’s why choosing the right hair transplant surgeon is so important.
How Much Does Hair Replacement Surgery Cost?
Financing can be discussed during your consultation; we are happy to guide you through the process. If you have already completed your consultation and need to complete an application for financing, you can access all the necessary document through this website.
Dr. James Aronovitz, of Warren MI, Can Help You
Dr. Aronovitz has the training, qualifications, expert staff and modern facilities needed to ensure that you have a safe, successful hair replacement experience. Previous surgical outcomes can often be reversed, so it’s never too late to get the results you want from the right hair replacement surgeon.