HAIR RESTORATION

WHAT IS HAIR LOSS?
Hair loss, or Alopecia develops when the number of hairs that are lost on a given day is greater than the number of hairs that are growing. Hair loss can be caused by systemic illnesses, infections, various medications and cancer treatments. In men, the most common type of hair loss is known as male pattern baldness. The vast majority of cases stem from an inherited sensitivity to hormones. Hair follicles in the front and middle of the scalp are particularly sensitive to hormonal changes, and therefore hair loss is most common in these areas. Hair on the back and sides of the scalp are resistant to these hormonal effects and that is why the hair there is almost never lost.

WHAT ARE THE MEDICAL TREATMENTS?
Recent advances have made it easier for physicians to identify the causes of hair loss and determine if systemic measures, such as treatment for hormone levels, when necessary. Next, a physician should determine what can be done medically to arrest further hair loss. Minoxidil, which recently captured headlines when it became available over-the-counter as Rogaine, can be an effective means for some patients to slow the progress of future hair loss. Finasteride which is an oral medication may be considered. These medications are best used in combination with surgery for effective long-term results.

WHAT ARE THE SURGICAL TREATMENTS?
Surgical hair transplantation is often the only way to achieve hair coverage over previously bald areas. Since 1990, the field of hair transplantation has taken a giant leap forward. We are now performing safe, effective procedures on a regular basis that were unknown just five years ago. Options that are currently available include: Mini- and Micro- Hair grafting and Scalp Reduction.

WHAT ARE MINI- AND MICRO- HAIR GRAFTS?
This is a commonly used procedure, transplanting various sizes and shapes of your own hair from the back and sides to the bald or thinning areas. The donor areas on the sides and back of the scalp are areas where hair is usually full and permanent. Hair grafts taken from this area of permanent hair remain permanent even after they are transplanted into the bald or thinning areas on the top or front of the scalp. In the past, a disadvantage of this technique was the so-called "corn row" appearance of the transplants. More recently, small grafts, called mini-grafts (5 to 8 hairs each) and micro-grafts (1 to 4 hairs each), allow for a more natural hairline.

HOW IS HAIR GRAFTING DONE?
Under local anesthesia a strip of scalp containing healthy hair is removed from the donor area on the back or side of the scalp. The donor area is then closed with sutures. The hair grafts are carefully prepared, trimmed and then inserted into the desired areas of the bald scalp. The hair is transplanted in such a way that growth is forward and down towards the forehead. In this way, combing helps conceal the small surgical scars. A small space is left between the plugs to allow for adequate blood supply, and these spaces are filled in at a later time. Because of the smaller size of the grafts, often 500 to 1,000 grafts or more are required for proper fill.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF THIS HAIR GRAFTING PROCEDURE?
Temporary swelling, and some post-operative discomfort are common. Inflammation and cysts around the transplanted hairs, pitting, or compression of these hairs, discoloration, and poor or delayed take of the grafts may occasionally develop.

WHERE IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?
Mini and micro-hair grafting procedures take place in our office setting at Northeast Dermatology Associates, P.A.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR HAIR GRAFTING?
Anyone who would like to restore the youthful appearance of their hairline. The best candidates are those who understand the nature of the procedure, have realistic expectations, and are motivated to make a significant change in their appearance.

WILL I BE ABLE TO RETURN TO WORK AFTER HAIR GRAFTING?
Yes, you can return to work immediately after hair grafting. However, for the first several days, dry scabs will form at each graft site. A normal appearance can be expected in five to seven days.

HOW MANY SESSIONS OF HAIR GRAFTING ARE NEEDED?
Usually two to six sessions are needed for the creation of a natural hairline, usually separated by several months, to allow new blood vessels to nourish the grafts.
WILL MY INSURANCE COMPANY REIMBURSE ME FOR THIS PROCEDURE?
The answer to this depends upon your insurance policy. Most insurance carriers consider this procedure cosmetic. Expected costs should be discussed with your physician prior to the procedure.

WHAT ARE SCALP REDUCTIONS AND SCALP LIFTING?
Scalp reduction surgically minimizes the area of bald scalp, while in scalp lifting more extensive scalp reduction is achieved by undercutting the hair bearing scalp to the back of the neck and lifting the scalp up.

ARE THERE ANY PRE-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS THAT I SHOULD FOLLOW?
Aspirin and aspirin-containing products, including Advil, Motrin and similar pain relievers, should be avoided for one week prior to surgery. Avoid excessive alcohol. If you are taking anticoagulants or have clotting problems, please let the doctor know.

HOW MUCH DOES HAIR TRANSPLANTATION COST?
The procedure costs vary depending on the number and type of grafts used, but generally range between $1,000 and $3,000 for each mini- and micro- grafting session.