Hair Transplant Blog

A Rundown on 8 Hair Loss Treatment Options

A Rundown on 8 Hair Loss Treatment Options- Australian Institute of Hair Restoration- Dr. Andrew Kim

 

Hair loss is a multifactorial condition, which explains why there is no cookie cutter solution to the problem. Since hair loss can stem from a variety of causes, it is only right that there are different treatments available. So, for those who seek a way out of their follicular dilemma, here are 8 potential treatment options for you.

1. Hair Supplements

Hair supplements have renewed its reputation with brands attaching itself to massively popular celebrities and influencers. These products have come far from simply being considered a bald man’s treatment taken on the down low, to something hip and cool. From straightforward packaging, you can now find products that come in cute gummy forms that appeal to the younger generation. With a lot going for it in terms of promotion, is this effective in treating hair loss?

What they’re saying: Hair supplements are the new wave of getting that thick and luscious hair!

What you’re getting: Hair loss supplements don’t really address the root cause of hair loss, neither can it prevent it. These products are not capable of treating hair loss that stem from genetic or hormonal causes. However, it can make existing hair stronger and healthier. It can be a good complimentary measure to boost the results of other hair loss treatments.

Pros:

  • A lot of the products today provide excellent results in promoting hair health.
  • It can improve your hair from the inside out.
  • If you are deficient in key nutrients necessary for hair growth, supplements can help reactivate your oil glands which can make the hair look healthier and shinier.  

Cons:

  • They are not FDA regulated, so brands you find in the market can say what they want to attract customer, so you must be discerning when choosing your product.
  • You might have some reactions to certain ingredients found in supplements.
  • It may cause interactions with certain medications you may be using.
  • You need to take it consistently if you want to get the best results.

2. Hair Boosting Shampoos

Shampoos that promise to improve hair growth or density would easily catch attention because it is a relatively easier solution. While it may be convenient, it doesn’t necessarily stop hair loss. It may help hair appear thicker temporarily, but there is no assurance that it can be a reliable long-term treatment.

With all the laudatory promises, is it enough to reverse hair loss?

What they’re saying: Hair boosting shampoos can give you thicker hair.

What you’re getting: There are shampoos in the market that come with certain ingredients that may help promote hair growth. Ketoconazole is one ingredient with anti-inflammatory effects that keep the scalp healthy so that hair growth is not stunted. Small studies also claim that 2% Ketoconazole may have a similar effect to topical hair loss medications. However, there is not enough evidence to prove its reliability with long-term use. Therefore, it may only work best when used to address temporary hair loss.

In general, shampoos that are formulated to boost hair growth work more on improving scalp health for better growth of existing hair. Yes, it may give you the appearance of thicker hair, but there is no strong evidence to show that it is a formidable treatment against aggressive hair loss.  

Pros:

  • It can promote healthier scalp and hair.
  • Works well for temporary hair loss.

Cons:

  • These types of shampoo can get expensive.
  • Some ingredient can be irritating to sensitive skin.

3. Hair Loss Medications

Hair loss medications are considered the first line of defense against hair loss, particularly for those that stem from genetic causes. What started as an off-label use, is now backed by research and a good number of satisfied users.

This treatment option is popular among those who suffer from hair loss conditions because they are convenient. The hair loss medications available in the market today come in oral and topical form with their own pharmacologic action in reversing hair loss and promoting hair growth.

With its established effects, what is the catch with pharmacologic interventions?

Oral Medications

Finasteride is an oral medication that was originally prescribed for individuals with an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). However, it was later discovered that the drug was also able to induce hair growth.

What they are saying: Oral medications for hair loss can reverse the problem without having to undergo surgery.

What you are getting: Finasteride has been proven to create the desired results that it even earned FDA approval for hair loss. It can decrease the amount of DHT or dihydrotestosterone, which is a hormone that is responsible for hair thinning, miniaturization, and shedding. Consequently, it increases hair regrowth while slowing down hair loss.

However, Finasteride is for adult men only. It is not advised to be taken by anyone under the age of 18, or by women. The required dose is one tablet a day. Also, take note that this is a prescription medication. Purchasing it online without a prescription is illegal and dangerous. Online stores who sell it prescription-free have the reputation of selling placebos or they use dangerous replacements.

Pros:

  • It significantly reduces her hair loss progression
  • Increases hair growth and prevents further hair loss
  • Suitable for long-term treatment

Cons:

  • It is reported to have sexual side effects
  • Finasteride may help address hair loss, but it must be taken indefinitely to maintain its effects
  • Some men develop gynecomastia with prolonged use
  • The cost can stack up over time

Topical Medications

Minoxidil is the topical treatment for hair loss, and it is an over-the-counter option that has been proven to work. Available as a foam or solution, this treatment stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles. It can increase follicular size, hair shaft and diameter, and even lengthens hair growth phase.

What they are saying: The use of topical treatments is a convenient way to restore hair loss.

What you are getting: Compared to Finasteride, which works by blocking DHT, Minoxidil works by creating an ideal environment for hair growth. With improved blood flow, the necessary nutrients are also delivered to hair follicles.

Topical treatment is the only approved solution to treat female pattern baldness. Women are recommended a 2% solution, while men are advised to use the 5% formula.

Pros:

  • Easy to get
  • Relatively simple to use
  • It promotes hair loss at the vertex of the scalp

Cons:

  • It is not a permanent solution to baldness, you need to be consistent to maintain results
  • Possible side effects
  • It is ineffective on areas of complete baldness or hair loss along the hairline

Oral and topical medications for hair loss can be combined to create a synergistic effect in preventing hair loss. These two can prevent hairline regression and protect the scalp from baldness.

https://www.reviews.com/hair-loss-treatment/  

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/hair-loss-treatments-ones-really-work/

https://parjournal.net/article/view/2220

4. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

There are studies which showed that clinical-strength laser has the capacity to stimulate hair growth. It is one of the three FDA-approved hair loss treatments along with oral and topical medications. But is laser therapy strong enough to trigger significant hair growth?

What they are saying: It is a hair loss savior that uses pain-free light technology that can induce regrowth of thicker and fuller hair.

What you are getting: You can get LLLT at a doctor’s office through a laser helmet, a laser brush, or a wand. It emits red light at wavelengths of 630-670 nanometers. This amount of light energy delivered to the scalp can trigger the following responses:

  • Increases blood flow
  • Increases tissue oxygenation which encourage hair regrowth
  • It inhibits 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts free testosterone into DHT

The 3 types of laser devices in the market today includes:

  • Combs. Laser combs are the most popular among the other laser devices. You can find it online or at any health and beauty stores. Combs are designed to have laser diodes in between the bristles. It works by targeting the areas directly as the teeth touch your scalp. Studies have shown that when down regularly, it can increase the number of hair follicles in the anagen phase. It is suggested that you use it 3 times a week for a total of 15 minutes per session.
  • Helmets. This laser device resembles a bicycle helmet, but they also come in different designs and specs, with some that are even fitted with earphones. There are versions that must be used at a doctor’s clinic, while there are others you can use at home. Helmets are known to prevent hair thinning along the hairline and regrow thicker, fuller hair in 3-6 months.
  • Wands. Considered the least popular among the laser devices. It is simply “waved” on the affected area for a certain number of minutes. Since direct contact is not made compared to a comb and a helmet, many say that it is not that effective.

The effectiveness of LLLT depends on several factors. While some say that it may be effective, others may think that its results are lackluster. On its own, the results may not be as dramatic as what you can achieve through medications or through a hair transplant, but they can create some improvement. Mist professionals look on to the beneficial effect of lasers augment the results of other hair loss treatments.

Pros:

  • It is a therapy you can do at home at your own convenience
  • It is easy to do

Cons:

  • The result will take time
  • It can have adverse reactions like headache, itching, acne, redness, mild numbness, skin pain and burning

5. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP has been a celebrated anti-aging treatment popularly known as the “vampire facial.” In fact, it has been used in medicine to treat a range of health issues like arthritis or chronic tendon injuries among many others. It essentially uses your own blood to help facilitate to deliver restorative effects. It was established that it also has the same effects for hair loss too.

Since it is minimally invasive, is it aggressive enough to restore advanced hair loss?

What they are saying: PRP hair loss is a less invasive way to promote hair growth.

What you are getting: In a review of 10 out of 12 studies, PRP demonstrates therapeutic effectiveness for male pattern baldness. It is evident in parameters such as higher hair density, increase in terminal to vellus hair ratio, and patient global assessment scores.

PRP is done by extracting your own blood from your arm. The sample is placed in a centrifuge which is a machine that spins the blood to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. The platelet-rich plasma is the component injected directly to the scalp at the level of the hair follicles.

Pros:

  • It uses your own blood sparing you the possibility of adverse/allergic reactions
  • No major side effects noted
  • Minimal recovery time
  • It works in areas that laser treatment can’t reach
  • Natural-looking results

Cons:

  • Pain on the injection sites
  • The extraction method has the potential for infection with poor technique

6. Regenera Activa

Regenera Activa is the new kid on the block of hair loss treatments. It is a minimally invasive treatment for hair loss using autologous micrografts, which means your own cells. While it may come with some attractive points, is it a good long-term treatment?

What they are saying: It restores your hair without chemicals or highly invasive surgery.

What you are getting: The procedure involves the extraction of small skin samples at the back of the scalp. A total of 3-4 tissue specimens are collected under local anaesthesia. As this area is less susceptible to hair loss, the samples will contain thousands of cells that can help activate resting hair follicles.

The collected specimens are placed inside a special patented system to extract the growth factors and other cells with regenerative properties. The suspension collected is then injected into the balding areas which slows down the progression of hair loss and initiate the regenerative process.

Pros:

  • It is a short procedure which takes about 30-45 minutes
  • No downtime
  • Results can be expected within 30-60 days
  • Eliminates the risk of tissue rejection or allergic reactions

Cons:

  • Non-permanent results
  • It must be repeated every 1-2 years
  • It will eventually cost you more than what you would pay for a hair transplant

7. Scalp Reduction

This is a surgical intervention also known as scalp lifting. This is a procedure where flaps of the non-hair bearing parts of the scalp is surgically cut out and the wound sutured back together. This is basically to minimize the bald areas. But is this a good approach for those suffering from male pattern baldness?

What they are saying: It is a procedure that can address hair loss, but it is not for everyone.

What you are getting: Scalp reduction was all the rage back in the 80s, but it is only used nowadays to address extreme cases of alopecia or traumatic burns. The technique of removing the scalp can be risky if not done right. If the surgeon removes so much scalp, it can result in excessive tension of the adjacent scalp which also means a wider scar. The tension can also reduce blood supply which can only worsen your hair loss.

Some practitioners today feel that scalp reduction should not be considered a reasonable option today. To ensure that results are safe and aesthetically pleasing, there must be careful patient selection. It must be done only for specific situations.

Read: Permanent Ways to Reduce Forehead with a New Hairline

Pros:

  • It is recommended for those who have bald areas on the scalp
  • It is a good option for those who don’t have enough hair grafts to cover bald areas

Cons:

  • The surgery is not for individuals suffering from male pattern baldness
  • It may cause problems such as scarring, altered hair direction, and thin scalp
  • It has a risk for complications
  • There is no conservation of donor’s hair
  • It may cause scarring when addressing hairline regression

8. Hair Transplant

Hair transplant surgery is considered a person’s last resort in hair restoration. It is a meticulous surgery that uses your own hair to be used as donors to cover up bald areas. It is a widely popular treatment, but even the best resort requires several considerations. Do you think this is the right solution for you?

What they are saying: The success of a hair transplant procedure depends on proper patient selection and the skill of your surgeon.

What you are getting: Hair restoration surgery you can expect the removal of donor hair follicles from the back of the scalp to implant them on the hairless portions of the head. It can also be used to improve hair distribution in areas like the eyebrows or beards. Patients have two options on how their donor grafts are to be extracted, these are the FUT (follicular unit transplantation) and FUE (follicular unit extraction) techniques.

  • FUT. Also known as the strip method, this technique involves the removal of the piece of scalp from the back of the head which contains the donor hairs. The back of the scalp is often unaffected by male pattern baldness making the hairs in this area viable donors. The donor grafts are removed from the piece of the scalp using a high-powered microscope while the doctor prepares the recipient site.
  • FUE. This technique removes the hair directly from the scalp using a punch-like tool that creates a circular incision around the donor graft. It may have skipped the need for incisions, but it is more labor-intensive with a high risk for resection.

Even though it is considered the best option to restore hair, it is not for everybody. A good surgeon would know that, otherwise efforts and resources will be put to waste. This is why you need to find a credible surgeon who will evaluate you extensively and honestly.

On average, the right candidate for a hair transplant should have the following characteristics:

  • Male or female whose hair loss has stabilized
  • Over the age of 25
  • Suffer from male or female pattern baldness
  • Those with realistic expectations
  • No bleeding or clotting problems

To help you find a good hair transplant surgeon take note of the following:

  • He must be trained and certified to do hair transplant surgery.
  • Ask the number of hair transplant surgeries he has done
  • Ask for his revision rate and probe further if the numbers are high
  • Ask for before and after photos

Pros:

  • Hair transplant can create natural-looking results
  • The procedure guarantees the growth of healthy hair in bald or thinning areas.
  • It can be customised to suit a person’s face, age, and even their ethnicity
  • It can provide you with permanent results

Cons:

  • It is an expensive treatment
  • Visible scarring particularly with FUT should a patient decide to wear short
  • You need to be at the right age to be considered a good candidate for this surgery
  • The success of your results largely depends on the skill and experience of your hair transplant surgeon

As you can see from the list above, those who suffer from hair loss have a range of options to choose from. However, you need to weigh the advantages and drawbacks, along with professional advice, to improve your chances at achieving your desired results.

Talk to someone who is well versed in this matter today. If you are in Sydney or Melbourne, you may call 1300 733 092 to book an appointment with Dr. Andrew Kim today. You may also drop us a line, here.

6 Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness)

6 Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness) - Australian Institute of Hair Restoration - Dr Andrew Kim

 

Did you know that you lose hair everyday without you even knowing it? Each person normally lose 50-100 hair strands a day, but in some cases hair loss can take a turn for the worse. Hair may shed at a certain pattern and may even progress until all of it falls off. In these cases, you have 6 possible treatment options. Here’s a quick guide to help you when searching for a solution.

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)

AGA, or male pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss in men today, affecting around 50% of males by age 50. There are racial and age-related differences in the incidence and pattern of hair loss in this condition. Therefore, which explains why the condition may be more advanced in some than in others.

While male pattern hair loss may not cause direct threat to a person’s physical health, this conditions still impacts a person’s self-image and can be a great cause of anxiety. The negative perceptions of hair loss may also further impair social functioning and may lead to depression in some men.

Key features in androgenetic alopecia in males include:

  • Hair follicles getting smaller (miniaturization)
  • Alteration in hair cycle development
  • Anagen stage becomes shorter that hair fails to achieve sufficient length to even reach the surface of the skin
  • Hair sheds in a specific pattern

The reason for androgenetic hair loss is type II 5-alpha reductase which is an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Once DHT binds to the hair follicle of the scalp it will result in male androgenetic alopecia.

Treatments

Androgenetic alopecia doesn’t have to be a lost cause because when you act on it right away, you could have a fighting chance at preventing further hair loss and stimulating better hair growth. Today, those affected by AGA have the option of trying out the following treatments.

Medications

Oral Medications

The oral medication for hair loss has been found to slow down the progression of male androgenetic alopecia and stimulate partial regrowth. This medication has also been found to reverse the miniaturization process and produces hair of better length and thickness in its place. Adding to that, it can also improve the hair’s growth rate.

Topical Medications

The topical treatment for androgenetic alopecia is found to induce blood flow to the skin because it can widen the opening of blood vessels. This also nourishes the skin and hairs which ultimately improves hair growth. Furthermore, it also has the capacity to open potassium channels which helps in improving hair regrowth.   

Both medications have the capacity to arrest the progression of hair loss and stimulate partial hair regrowth. Their use must be continuous to maintain their effects. However, if you experience any side effects, you must report this immediately to your doctor rather than discontinuing the medication by yourself. The doctor can either lower the dose or prescribe another treatment.

Low Level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT)

This treatment is delivered by a device similar to a hairbrush that emits red light. It has been marketed as an over-the-counter treatment for hair loss. It is a non-invasive treatment that uses light technology programmed below a specific energy threshold which is absorbed by the hair follicles to stimulate their growth and the regrowth of thicker and fuller hair.

Botulinum Toxin

While this may not be a conventional treatment for hair loss, one study suggested that botulinum toxin can be a viable treatment for androgenetic alopecia in men. Upon administering it to the scalp, it can result in muscle relaxation which eventually increase blood flow.  Consequently, this also washes out accumulated DHT in your circulatory system which reduces the signal for miniaturization of hair follicles.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

This is a hair loss treatment where your own blood is drawn, processed to separate the different components (growth factors and other essential proteins) and injected into the scalp. PRP will reduce hair fall, reverses thinning, and increase the growth phase ultimately improving har density. Aside from stimulating inactive hair follicles, it can also support the growth of newly implanted hair follicles.

Surgery

Hair transplant surgery is considered the last resort for those who suffer from hair loss. It is an invasive approach to restoring lost hair using donor grafts taken from your own scalp. The procedure has been performed for several years with a lot of refinements along the way.

There are two main approaches used for hair transplantation and these are:

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation)

Known as the “strip method,” this technique got its name because it involves the removal of a piece of scalp to obtain the donor hair grafts. This is the traditional approach in hair restoration and is also the most invasive. Through this method the donor grafts are taken from the back of the scalp. Once it is removed, the follicular units are taken out individually using a high-powered microscope.

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

The FUE method is a newer approach that uses the punch-graft technique. It uses a special tool that acts like a punch to create a circular incision around the hair grafts or follicular units. It is less invasive, but it will also take time to finish as it is more challenging due to the high chances of transection.

Combination Therapy

To make use of the synergistic effect of these treatments, combination therapy may be used. This can be an appropriate measure to address the unique presentations of this disease in each affected individual. An example of a combination therapy may include medications, surgery, and LLLT or PRP to enhance the results.

Androgenetic alopecia is common, and it is highly likely to be accompanied by other forms of hair loss. Since androgenetic alopecia it may also be aggravated by different factors. Therefore, a multifactorial treatment may be necessary.

Now that you have seen your options, seek professional help the soonest possible time. Be properly advised to know which among these would be an appropriate treatment for your case. Book your consultation with Dr. Andrew Kim today for a comprehensive evaluation.

How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost in Australia?

How-much-does-a-hair-transplant-cost-in-Australia-Australian-Institute-of-Hair-Restoration-Dr-Andrew-Kim

 

Cost is among the major considerations behind your decision on hair transplant surgery. In Australia, the procedure does not come cheap, but for a valid reason. It has been a reliable treatment with results to show for it. This is reflected in an ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery) data which showed that  hair restoration surgeries jumped 60% worldwide from 2014 to 2016.

If you are willing to shell out the money, don’t you want to know what are the specifics involved?

Hair Transplant Cost Components

You must understand that there are several factors that affect the cost of a hair transplant surgery. We’ve broken down the relevant expenses for you to know where your budget is going.

Hair Transplant Consultation

A hair transplant consultation is an indispensable step to any surgical hair restoration journey. In your search for a hair transplant surgeon, it is possible that you approach different surgeons. Some offer it for free, but most of the time this comes at a fee.

The usual cost of these consultations is around $150. The cost is often waived if you decide to get your surgery done at the clinic.

Donor Graft Extraction and Implantation Process

The type of hair transplant surgery is defined by the extraction process for the donor graft. There are two different methods, the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction).

FUT

FUT, or the “strip method” is the traditional approach in hair transplant surgery. It is a more invasive technique as it involves the removal of a piece of skin at the back of the scalp. It is a good source of donor grafts because it is the least susceptible to androgenetic alopecia.

In an FUT procedure, the cost is counted by individual grafts, and it costs approximately $6-$8 per graft. Furthermore, prices vary depending on the number of grafts needed for your case. Therefore, you can see hair graft prices around $5-$14 apiece.

FUE

The FUE is an alternative to the traditional method where the donor grafts are removed directly from the scalp. It is a more tedious process and it takes more time to complete. This explains why this procedure is more expensive compared to FUT.

The same with FUT, the price is counted by graft. It ranges around $8-$10 per graft. The overall cost will also depend on the extent of work required for your case.

Surgeon’s Experience

Your surgeon’s experience and expertise are contributing factors to the amount you pay for their professional fee (PF). Also expect that a surgeon’s PF will also vary for each region in Australia.

In this regard, you must not let a surgeon’s fee be a primary factor in your decision. This might push you to easily fall for the cheapest price, but without much to show for quality.

Coverage

The extent of work that needs to be done will also factor in with the total cost of surgery. The coverage will mainly depend on the aesthetic goal you aim to achieve while maintaining realistic expectations.

For example, a 50-year-old’s hairline after surgery should not be as low as that of a 30-year-old. That creates a domino effect because that would define the number of grafts needed, the extent of work, the length of time, and ultimately the cost.

A good hair transplant not only restores hair volume, it should be done with the intent of creating natural-looking results. Therefore, the number of grafts will vary accordingly.

Patient Care

Hair restoration comes with several steps, outside of the actual surgery, to achieve the desired result. These steps should also be accounted for when estimating your budget. Patient care will include the following:

  • Pre-surgical consultation

Aside from the initial consultation mentioned earlier, a pre-surgical consultation may also take place. This will be scheduled once you finally decided to get the surgery done. It may involve taking baseline photos, pre-surgical instructions, and physical examination.

  • Return visits

After the surgery, you will be advised to return for follow-up checkups. These appointments are usually scheduled after the first week, months 1,3, and 6, and right after the first year. They are necessary for the surgeon to assess you are progressing across post-surgical milestones.

  • Medications

This will include your anaesthetics and post-operative medications. If you have been taking hair loss medications before the surgery, you will be advised to continue them even after the procedure. Pain medications and antibiotics will also be prescribed to promote a safe, comfortable, and a timely healing process.  

Hair Transplant Revision

In surgical hair restoration, a revision can cost you more than the first surgery. It takes certain skills and more time to correct a botched outcome than finishing a primary procedure. That is why hair surgeons charge more for corrections. Furthermore, the rate would also depend on the extent of remedy needed.

There is no set price for hair transplant revisions because this is determined only after the surgeon has assessed your case. Therefore, you must invest in a good practitioner from the get-go to avoid corrective procedures in the future.

In cases where the same surgeon deems it necessary to make corrective work, sometimes they do this free of charge. For patients who may need additional work done, appropriate charges will also apply, but this would relatively be cheaper than the first procedure. If a secondary surgery has always been in the plan, the expected cost can already be determined and prepared for after your initial consult.

No Insurance

Hair transplant surgery is not covered by insurance because it is an elective procedure. Your only option would be out-of-pocket payment or through personal loans.

Reminder

There is no exact price for hair transplant surgery. The only way to get a specific quotation is through a personal consultation. Each patient comes with varying cases and the approach to care will also be customised based on your needs. Therefore, be wary if you come across hair transplant packages that promise X number of grafts for a certain amount.

Be properly advised today. If you have more questions, or if you want to get a quotation, you may book your consultation, here.  

12 Facts to Prepare You for Eyebrow Transplant Surgery

12 Facts to Prepare You for Eyebrow Transplant Surgery-AIHR-Eyebrow-Hair-Transplant Australia

 

When we look at our face, we seldom look over the beauty that our eyebrows create. They make us look human, and define our looks, but sometimes we can only appreciate its significance when we over plucked it, accidentally shaved off some parts of it, or just lose it due to some condition.

So whether you are a lady or a guy who is interested in eyebrow hair transplant, you might find this article helpful.

1. What are the common triggers of eyebrow hair loss?

The hairs on your brows are like the hairs anywhere in your body. This means that it can be affected by the same things that cause hair loss on your head. The usual triggers include:

  • Burn injury

Burn injury may be caused be through chemical, electrical or flame. Overall, burns account for 57.6% (the highest) among the different causes of hair loss on the eyebrows or the eyelash.

  • Physiologic Aging

It is normal for a person to lose a significant number of hair with age. Therefore, it is expected that your eyebrows may not be as lusciously thick as it once was.

  • Stress

In some cases, excessive hair loss can be due to a disruption in the natural growth and rest cycle of hair. Stress is a known trigger and some of the risk factors include a significant physical injury, pregnancy and childbirth.

  • Skin conditions

Skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema doesn’t necessarily lead to hair loss. However, it can cause inflammation near the brow that may lead to shedding. The inflammation may trigger you to scratch or rub the inflamed area which can also lead to hair loss. .

  • Metabolic changes

Metabolic abnormalities such as increased insulin resistance, decreased insulin sensitivity, and high blood pressure can also result in hair loss.

  • Certain medications

Medications come with side effects and hair loss is a potential result. If ever you notice hair thinning after using a certain medication, inform your prescribing physician rather than stopping it on your own. In that way, you can be properly advised and given a more suitable treatment.

  • Alopecia areata

This is a condition where the body attacks its own hair follicles. It results in bald patches in any hair-bearing area of the skin. It is often more obvious on the head, but it can also affect the eyebrows too.

  • Chemotherapy

One of the most obvious side effects of powerful chemotherapeutic drugs is hair loss. Not only does it affect cancer cells, but the healthy ones too. Unfortunately, these drugs also attack other rapidly growing cells in the body, including your hair roots. This results in hair loss all over your body, including your eyebrows.

  • Trichotillomania

This is an impulse control disorder where an individual pulls out his/her hair to relieve tension. While some tend to remove individual hairs, others pull out large handfuls at a time.

  • Overplucking

Repeated plucking weakens the follicles until it becomes damaged and ultimately stops growing hair.

Not all these reasons result in total hair shedding. More often, it leaves a sparse distribution of eyebrow hairs where it may appear like it shed entirely.

2. Who is the right candidate for an eyebrow hair transplant?

A right candidate for an eyebrow hair transplant is one who has realistic expectations, understands the limits in density that can be achieve, has a pronounced defect than purely cosmetic purposes, and stable or treated disease.

While the procedure may seem minor, it still calls for proper patient selection. Individuals with thinned or sparse eyebrows can be a good candidate. However, there are specific requirements that must be met. It all starts with the patient’s health in general. Even though an eyebrow hair transplant is not as extensive as hair surgery on the head, it still comes with certain risks. Therefore, a patient must be physically able to endure and recover from the procedure.

The quality of your donor hair is also another important factor to consider. This means that you need to have healthy growing hairs at the back of the head and the sides. To prevent emergencies, the surgeon also makes sure that you are cleared of any bleeding or clotting problems.

The best way to know  if you are a good candidate for surgery is through a personal consultation with a surgeon. This is necessary so the doctor can do an extensive evaluation to map out a personalised surgical plan.

3. How is the procedure done?

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) is considered the gold standard for eyebrow hair transplantation. This technique involves the transplantation of naturally occurring groups of one to four hairs, called follicular units. These units allows the surgeons to transplant thousands of grafts in a single session, resulting in the restoration of a natural, fuller brow.

The first step in an FUT involves harvesting hair follicles from an elliptical strip of skin that is excised from the back of the scalp. This technique is called strip harvesting. This area of the head is most commonly used because it is the last area of the scalp affected by hair loss.

Once the strip has been excised, surgical assistants remove individual follicular units using stereomicroscopic dissection to remove individual follicular units.

After graft harvest is completed, recipient sites on brow line are then created using a high-gauge needle. In this process, careful attention is made to the orientation of their growth. The surgeon then transplants each follicular unit into the recipient sites based on the location and orientation of surrounding hairs.

4. Is this a permanent solution?

Yes, eyebrow hair transplant surgery is a permanent solution to eyebrow thinning. You will experience long term growth, and just like native eyebrow hair they will eventually shed but will also grow back. The only way to ensure that the new grafts stay, is that you avoid any triggers that may damage the area or cause the hairs to shed permanently.

Read also: Eyebrow Transplant: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly 

5. Where will the donor hair come from?

The donor hair will be taken from the back of the scalp. As mentioned earlier, this area is the last to be affected by hair loss. The hairs on the pre-auricular areas are also preferred. In some cases, the skin from the contralateral eyebrow is also used. There are several techniques that have been studied today. However, it all boils down to experience, the surgeon’s eye for aesthetics, and your unique case.  

6. How many grafts will be used in an eyebrow hair transplant?

The number of grafts needed will vary for each patient and is based on the pre-operative evaluation of the surgeon. The number of grafts also differ according to the thickness and length of the eyebrows. Not more than 200 follicular units are taken at one point in time. There will be reassessment down the line to see if another procedure is necessary, or if once is already enough.

7. Where will the procedure be performed?

At the Australian Institute of Hair Restoration (AIHR), this procedure is done at the clinic. The good thing about an eyebrow hair transplant is that it can be performed as an outpatient procedure.

8. How long does the entire procedure take?

The length of time will depend on the extent of work that has to be done on each patient. Usually an eyebrow hair transplant can go for 5-6 hours.

9. What can I expect during the immediate post-operative period?

The recipient areas are kept open, while the donor area (in a Follicular Unit Transplantation method)  is covered in a dressing for 2 days. Bruising and swelling can last for a few days. To alleviate the pain and ensure that you heal in a timely manner, you must take antibiotics, painkillers or oral steroids as prescribed by the physician.

Each surgeon has their own aftercare instructions. Some prefer that you keep the hair grafts dry for five days after transplantation while gently apply local antibiotic treatment. These measures ensure that proper angulation of hair growth is maintained and any chances of infection are minimised. Other surgeons would already allow patients to wash the area on the 3rd post-operative day, that is after the dressings are removed.

The patient may apply some make-up on the areas around the eyes on the next post-operative day. However, you can only apply cosmetics on the brow area once the crusts have fallen off.

10. How long is the recovery time for eyebrow hair transplant?

Since the procedure makes use of fine instruments and minimally invasive techniques, you can go back to your normal activities within 48 hours, granted that you don’t engage in strenuous activities or contact sports.

11. Are there any complications to eyebrow hair transplant?

The most common complications to eyebrow hair transplant surgery are those related to direction, curl, texture, and color mismatch or lack of regrowth. These complications are dependent on the skills of the surgeon, and it decreases with experience and in using the right techniques.

In some cases, there can be asymmetry because of skin retraction as a result of the introduction of anaesthesia in the area. It may create misjudgment regarding eyebrow shape while creating the slit for implantation. It is only rare for infection, folliculitis, and scarring to occur in these instances.

12. How long will it take until I get to see the final results?

Initially, almost all brow transplanted hair fall due to anagen effluvium or shock loss, which is actually a normal process. The transplanted eyebrows will start noticeable growth at around 3-4 months after surgery. In the next 4-6 months, the number increases which means better hair density.

Now that you know the basics, you are better prepared for the next step. Book your consultation with Dr. Andrew Kim today.

5 Ways To Bring Back A Receding Hairline

AIHR 5 Ways To Bring Back A Receding Hairline BLOGPHOTO JULY 2018

 

Hair loss is one of the most pervasive problems of mankind, and one we’re curiously sensitive about. Studies have shown that hair loss or receding hairline significantly affects psychological health, self-esteem, and self-confidence. In the Middle Ages, men would go so far as to rub the ashes of bees on their heads just in the hopes of stemming the march of time and aging.

Hair loss is particularly hard on men–it is estimated that half of all men by the age of 50 will be affected. However, although hair loss is less common in women, the condition is not any less concerning for those who experience it. “Often in females it will affect 50 per cent of their hair, so many women will not go truly bald, but their hair can get so perilously thin that it can become a big problem for them,” says Michael Freeman, a dermatologist and professor at Bond University.

A receding hairline, or a bitemporal regression, is the most common form of hair loss in men over 30 years old. Less than 5% of men retain the clear, straight hairline they had as children.  Thankfully, many options exist today for in the push against receding hairlines, and none of them as crude as rubbing insect parts on the scalp. Over the centuries we’ve gotten better at receding hairline treatments.

 

Topical treatments: Minoxidil

Source:  gettik.com

Minoxidil is one of the most common and accessible over-the-counter treatments for hair loss. But as a cure for receding hairlines, minoxidil gets a mix of positive and negative feedback, mainly because of lack of research.

Known in the market as Rogaine, the generic version comes in a variety of types, like foam or serum. The substance was originally developed in the 1970’s to treat hypertension by improving blood flow and nutrient delivery around the body. Researchers found a welcome side-effect of increased blood flow–healthier hair follicles that happily grew more hair, specifically around the scalp and crown.

Consequent studies focused on the effects of minoxidil on the scalp and crown. Until now, minoxidil usage carries the DNA of initial research. There is no definitive study on the efficiency of minoxidil on receding hairlines, but based on anecdotal evidence from users online, the treatment needs to be paired with finasteride for better results.

 

Oral treatments: Finasteride

Finasteride — widely sold as Propecia and Proscar — is an oral medication that directly targets the root cause of hair loss and most cases of male pattern baldness: dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that shrinks hair follicles, thereby inhibiting hair growth. Finasteride decreases overall levels of DHT in the body, which promotes healthier hair follicles.

Various studies have been conducted on the efficacy of finasteride in treating receding hairlines. Men with thinning hairlines report slower hair loss and hair regrowth after a year of taking finasteride. In one clinical study, only 17% of men continued to lose hair after taking finasteride, as compared to a staggering 72% who were not given the drug.

Unfortunately, Finasteride’s efficiency comes at a price. The drug has been known to have severe to mild side effects, including impotence, reduced sexual drive, nausea, and swollen limbs. For some, the risk is too high a price to pay for a healthy, strong hairline.

 

Light therapy: Laser treatments

 

Laser light therapy is a common treatment in the cosmetics and healthcare industry. Skin care professionals use lasers to decrease the appearance of wrinkles, and to destroy acne-causing bacteria. Doctors have successfully used laser therapy for healing wounds and relieving joint pains.

In the area of hair loss, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been proven to stimulate hair growth. It does this by stimulating hair follicles into the anagen phase, the period when follicles actively grow hair. Capillus, a producer of LLLT devices, observed a 50% growth in the hair count of those who underwent LLLT therapy.

 

Platelet therapy: Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections

 

Platelet rich plasma therapy is a method that involves injecting plasma into your scalp. The doctor acquires plasma by taking a sample of your own blood, and running it through a machine called a centrifuge to separate the platelet-containing plasma from the rest of the components in the blood.

Plasma cells promote cell regeneration, and is used in a wide variety of surgeries that require you to regrow healthy parts, like hip replacement surgery, and is showing promise for reducing pain and swelling for people with osteoarthritis.

Now, the plasma has made its way to our heads. PRP injections have been shown to increase hair growth after three treatment sessions, spaced between 30 days each. The study also noted that no subjects reported any major side-effects, possibly because the use of the patient’s own blood reduces chances of the body rejecting the injection.

 

Surgical treatments: Hair transplant

 

Sometimes, even the most aggressive combination of minoxidil, finasteride, and laser light therapy treatment can fail to regrow a receding hairline.

Men and women with severe hair loss can turn to a procedure called Follicular Unit Extraction, or FUE. FUE is a hair transplant method that involves uprooting healthy follicles using an instrument called a “punch”, usually from the back or sides of the head, and transplanting them onto the site affected by hair loss.

Alternatively, patients can opt for a traditional hair transplant called a Follicular Unit Transplant. This method involves the surgeon taking a thin strip of tissue from the back of the head, extracting hair follicles from it, and using those to fill out a thinning hairline.

There is no one size fits all cure for a receding hairline. Some may respond to just a single treatment, some might need to combine methods, and some might even have to resort to hair loss surgery. Consult a surgeon for the right battle plan in your fight against a receding hairline.

You can ask Dr. Andrew Kim, our resident hair restoration surgeon at the Australian Institute for Hair Restoration, all your questions about curing a receding hairline. Dr. Kim is trained in both FUE and FUT, and is a member of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, and a fellow at the Korean College Cosmetic Surgery. Call us now, or just fill out our inquiry form to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kim today!