SURGICAL
HAIR LOSS SOLUTIONS
Modem techniques in hair grafting (the most frequently
performed method of transplanting hair) are performed by
taking small pieces of hair bearing scalp from the back and
sides of the head and moving them into holes and slits on
the top of the head. This technique is commonly called hair
grafting, punch grafting, plug grafting or hair transplantation.
This procedure is performed by many physicians and in many
clinics throughout the world. No new hair is added - hair
and skin are relocated.
Grafting techniques include the following
types of grafts:
• Micrograft: 1 to 2 hair grafts
into needle holes.
• Small slit grafts: 3 to 4 hairs
into a slit recipient site.
• Large slit grafts: S to7 hairs into a slit recipient site.
• Small minigraft: 3 to 4 hairs into a small recipient site.
• Large minigraft: 5 to 8 hairs into a small round recipient site.
• Standard round or square grafting: Approximately 9 to 18 hairs in a 3-45
mm size graft placed into a slightly smaller round recipient site.
Marketing terms used by different physicians and businesses
may be confusing. In hair transplants all grafting procedures
will be one of the above or a combination.
HOW MANY GRAFTS DOES IT TAKE TO GET ADEQUATE COVERAGE?
A
square of paper 3.3 inches long will give you a realistic
idea of the area that would require approximately 500-600
standard grafts. This will indicate the importance of strategic
planning and precise placement of grafts to give the illusion
of more hair.
THE FUTURE
Instead of basing your decision on the immediate
results, keep in mind androgenetic alopecia (male or female
pattern hair loss) is progressive. Outstanding results may
be obtained today that may not be there in the future. Plan
your hairline and density conservatively as though you were
already in the future.
FLAPS
Although flaps transfer the greatest amount of hair
in the shortest amount of time, the surgery is more extensive
and specific skill and experience is required by the doctor.
A much larger portion of hair bearing skin (a flap) is transferred
from sides and back to the balding area. The flap remains
attached at one end through which it maintains nourishment.
Therefore the hair in the flap can grow continuously unlike
grafted hair which falls out before regrowing.
SCALP REDUCTION
The surgical removal of bald areas of the
top of the scalp. Usually multiple scalp reductions are done,
with success dependent on the laxity of the scalp and the
limited degree of hair loss as well as the age of the patient.
Almost all scalp reductions are done with a combination of
either flaps or grafts.
SCALP EXPANSION & SCALP EXTENSION
These are done to accommodate scalp reductions when the laxity of the scalp
is too tight. Expansion is also used to prepare individuals for flap surgeries.
SURGICAL FAQ:
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
Cost will vary with the individual's
degree of hair loss and the individual physician. Cost can
vary from $4,000.00 for a lesser degree of hair loss to over
$20,000.00 for more extensive hair loss.
WHOM DO I CONSULT WITH PRIOR TO HAIR TRANSPLANTATION?
Although
there are knowledgeable consultants, the AHLC recommends
that you do not start any type of surgery without consulting
with the physician who will be performing the surgery.
Preferably the surgeon should be a resident of the community.
It is normally beneficial to continue sessions with the same
surgeon and to have him or her available throughout the entire
period of surgical procedures.
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HOW DO
I FIND THE BEST SURGICAL SPECIALIST IN MY AREA?
Although the American Hair Loss Council does not endorse or recommend any individual
firm, we can supply you with a list of AHLC specialists in or near your specific
area. All AHLC members sign a statement that they will honor our Code of Ethics
which is centered around the protection of you, the consumer. Request the American
Hair Loss Council Source Book.
Click the link above to find a hair replacement specialist near you!
THE
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS NEEDED
TO ACHIEVE SUPERIOR RESULTS
A. THE PATIENT: Qualified in respect to age; degree of hair loss, type and
color of hair, cause of hair loss, his expectations
as well as the ability to afford and endure the multi-sessions often required
to obtain excellent results.
B. THE PHYSICIAN: Credentials, experience, aesthetic vision, honesty and the
ability to educate you BEFORE surgery are all important elements necessary
for successful hair transplantation.
C. The experienced, qualified physician will be able to inform you as to being
properly qualified for hair replacement surgery.
It is best to consult with several physicians offering hair replacement surgery
before choosing one. Prepare your questions prior to the consultation.
To insure the that the physician is capable of offering
the results you desire, ask to meet a patient or two that
he/she has recently completed. Seeing the results firsthand
helps to insure you are in capable hands. This is far superior
to photos or advertising.
CHECK THE FOLLOWING FOR REFERENCES
1. Your city, county and state medical societies.
2. Your family physician or any physician you see professionally or socially.
3. Your local medical library
4. Your hairstylist
5. The Better Business Bureau
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