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Hair Loss - Treatments |
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Hair Loss - Treatments (2)
Hair replacement surgeryThis treatment should only be undertaken by an expertly trained professional, and you should ensure that this is the case beforehand by consulting extensively in the field and taking up all references offered. With this technique, small pieces of hair-bearing scalp are removed from the back and sides of the head and are then transplanted into small holes and slits on the affected area (usually the top of the head). This technique is commonly called hair grafting, punch grafting, plug grafting or hair transplantation. With this technique no new hair is added, hair and skin are relocated to improve the overall appearance of the hair.The following types of grafting techniques are used: Micrograft - 1 to 2 hair grafts into needle holes. Small slit grafts- 3 to 4 hairs into a slit recipient site. Large slit grafts- 5 to 7 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. Flap technique - Taking a much larger portion of hair-bearing skin from the sides and back of the head (a flap) transfers the greatest amount of hair in the shortest amount if time. But this technique is even more extensive and a great amount of skill and expertise is necessary in the doctor conducting the treatment. This flap remains attached at one end and allows the hair in the flap to grow continuously unlike grafted hair which sheds before growing once more. Results Results can vary and the procedure is extensive when one takes into consideration the size of the area being treated. It is also worth bearing in mind that genetic hair loss is a progressive condition. Instead of basing your decision on the immediate results, keep in mind that things will change over time and it is a good idea to plan your hairline and density conservatively taking into consideration how your hair loss may have increased in the future. Scalp reduction This technique involves the surgical removal of bald areas from the top of the scalp. Usually multiple scalp reductions are done, and the success of this treatment depends largely 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 and scalp extension These procedures are undertaken in order to accommodate scalp reductions when the laxity of the scalp is too tight. Expansion is also used to prepare individuals for flap surgeries. These should be discussed in detail with a professional. ! Before undergoing surgery of this kind… • Ensure that you are fully aware of what the procedure entails, how much it costs (and will continue to cost if further treatments are necessary in the future), and what are your expectations as far as the outcome is concerned. • Ensure that you are 100% happy with the credentials of the physician performing the procedure. He or she must be able to answer all of your questions beforehand and it is a good idea to have these prepared in advance of any treatment. • Ensure that you have followed up on any credentials or references which have been given. Ask to meet a patient or two who has recently been treated and ask them about their experience and their levels of satisfaction with the procedure, as well as side effects if any. How much money will a procedure like this cost? The cost of this sort of treatment for hair loss varies greatly according to the country where the treatment is taking place as well as the individual physician. However, as a general guide, costs can range between $3,500 to over $20,000.
Non surgical hair additionsA non surgical hair addition is an external device containing hair which can be added to existing hair or the scalp to give one the appearance of a fuller head of hair. Such devices include hair weaves, hair extensions, hair pieces, toupees, non-surgical hair replacements, and partial hair prostheses. They may be made out of human hair, synthetic fibre or a combination of both.Weaves, fusion, bonding, cabling, micro links, beading are general terms of techniques all of which are attached to the client's existing hair. They are all dependent on the growing existing hair and therefore must be reattached or tightened as the existing hair grows. In cases where the existing hair may not be strong or prevalent enough to make the above techniques possible, the scalp itself can be used as an anchor site for such a hair addition. Adhesives such as strong double-sided tapes and new improved waterproof liquids can be used to attach the device, as can vacuum bases which are held on by suction through an air tight fitting base. It is also possible to have a hair addition implanted surgically via the use of tunnel grafts similar to those used in hair transplant treatment. Small skin grafts are taken from a donor site and formed into a small loop which is used to insert removable inserts which are permanently attached to a hair addition device such as those described. This is a highly specialist procedure. A note on Suturing: Suturing is a form of hair loss treatment which is now seen as unethical. A hair addition attached using this method can cause severe pain and other repercussions for the patient, including scarring and infection.
hich form of treatment for my hair loss is safest?By far the safest means of obtaining additional hair is the hair addition. This excludes those surgical forms of hair addition as described above.Hair additions, if done professionally and skillfully, can be highly effective in achieving a natural appearance. It is important to realize, however, that the patient must himself participate in the process and ensure that he spends the required amount of time and attention ensuring that the product looks its best. Although most adhesives are safe, it is always safest to have a patch test performed by a dermatologist, especially if you have a history of allergies. Hair weaving and other types of attachment that place prolonged stress on the hair and scalp can cause permanent hair loss at the anchor site on fine, thin hair. This can be the case even with temporary clips which are attached too tightly to the hair. It is vital to consult with an expert as they will ensure that hair weaving will not exacerbate further loss of hair.
How much will a procedure like this cost?Again this greatly depends on the experience and knowledge of the specialist, the materials and the design. However, as a general guide prices for this treatment can range from $750.00 to $2,500.00 for a quality custom-made hair addition.
Men and women with hair lossRecently there has been a significant increase in the sales of non surgical hair additions by the female consumer. Instead of opting for wigs women experiencing hair loss tend now to be preferring the more natural look and feel of a partial hair addition.
Is there anyone who should avoid having a hair addition?Men and women who are currently undergoing chemotherapy and newly diagnosed patients with alopecia areata should request a full prosthesis. Due to the nature of chemotherapy, all hair will likely be lost and a partial hair addition may be useless. With alopecia areata, the condition may not be stable and focusing in on one area may only be a temporary solution.It is also possible to use hair additions on a temporary basis whilst undergoing hair transplant sessions which can be lengthy (up to 12 to 24 months). Causes Treatments 1 Treatments 2 FAQs Further Reading
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