Hair Transplant Blog

Are You Too Young for a Hair Transplant

Are You Too Young for a Hair Transplant?

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Hair transplant is not an easy decision when you are desperately seeking solutions for your hair loss. Yes, it is one promising treatment, but you don’t necessarily get desired results when deciding on a whim. One of the major factors that must be considered first is your age. Read and learn why the right number matters.

The key in determining good candidates for hair transplant surgery is estimating how the patient’s hair loss pattern might progress. Since male hair loss also affects young men, those in their early twenties are often left embarrassed, unhappy, and desperate that they search for quick fixes.
So, is hair loss really the end all and be all in these cases?

The answer, for now, is no.

Hair Loss Progression

In order to understand the rationale behind advising young men against opting for hair transplant straightaway is to know the progression of hair loss.

It doesn’t take rocket science to realize that hair loss is a progressive condition. It can leave a man completely bald, or it can result in a certain shape hence the term male pattern baldness. Hairs don’t shed overnight, rather it takes its time, sometimes thinning out first before it falls off.

When the effects of hair loss start to become obvious, those affected would often want to look good now. It is only understandable especially for men in their 20s when it is supposedly the prime of their life and you should be sporting youthful features. Aside from their own issues about it, some find it affecting their dating life or their career.
The distress that occurs over losing one’s hair is legitimate and it shouldn’t be brushed aside. But it also shouldn’t be done without careful consideration of one’s age.

Age Matters

Surgeons definitely proceed with caution before approving a candidate who is under the age of 18, or even those who are in their early 20s. It is in rare cases when teenage hair loss patients who wish to undergo the procedure are carefully vetted first before being approved – if they are approved at all.

For best results, it is advised that you wait until the hair loss process has slowed down or stabilized before undergoing a hair transplant. If you jump right into surgery, it’s still too early in the hair loss process to predict the pattern that your hair loss would take. As a result, your transplant may end up looking unnatural as you lose more hair. The transplanted hair will look luscious and would grow with vigor, while the surrounding areas will continue to get thinner.

Other Options

Surgeons commonly advise patients to stabilize their hair loss first using medical management before even considering surgical hair restoration. Two of the mainstays for male pattern hair loss management are topical and oral medications. These two are well-studied medications for male hair loss and they have been proven to be effective as well.

There are also newer options available in the market today such as light therapy, protein-rich plasma injections, etc. Once the hair loss has become stable, then one can consider having surgical hair restoration.

There are some surgeons who may provide a minor hair transplant to provide some density at the hairline with the understanding that you will likely need additional treatment in the future as your hair loss progresses.

The Right Age

It is the responsibility of surgeons to guide patients with their own anxieties. It is the ethical practice that they give them the hard facts instead of just simply going with what the patient wants but sacrificing aesthetic outcome in the future. Also, you wouldn’t want to risk using donor hairs which are of a very limited supply.

The improvements and increased reliability of hair transplant surgery might have exploded its popularity today, this could mean that patients are undergoing surgery when it isn’t really for their best interest. It could leave these patients disappointed five to ten years later when they are left with poorly-designed hairlines with very little consideration for a natural look.

Most hair transplant surgeons agree that the minimum age for a hair transplant is 25 and the ideal age is 40 and above. At 25 the surgeons have some idea as to how the hair loss is progressing and what can be done to approach it surgically.

Young, desperate and anxious patients are vulnerable and could jump at any easy solution. But having read this information, we hope that you now see the bigger reason behind the right age for hair transplant surgery. Look ahead instead of rushing into it today as inappropriate surgery could have you living to regret it.

Trust a hair transplant surgeon who is knowledgeable in hair loss for more information that is specific to your concerns. It doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything about your hair loss today. Book your consultation at the Sydney Hair Transplant and let Dr. Daood and his team help you.

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Hair Loss How To Get Creative W

Hair Loss: How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it

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When the threat of baldness is right around the bend, hinted by that shiny pate peeking through your hair it helps to have some creativity up your sleeve. So you’re balding. It doesn’t mean that you’re just a lost case from here on out – in the hair department that is. Before medications take their effect, or before you decide on a hair transplant, you can get clever about your hairstyle.

The Combover

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-2

Source: therighthairstyles.com/comb-over-hairstyles-for-men/2/

Combovers may not have the best reputation thanks to that infamous Trump hair, but hairstylist are breathing new life into this new hairstyle. It’s versatile because it can come in different styles and lengths, and it’s the easiest one to achieve. To give it a more modern flair, you can have the sides – or the hair over the temples – faded while the top part is shorn to give you that sleek look. Sweep the hair over to one side to fill out the receding hairline. You can grow in some facial hair to complement the cut.

Buzz It Off

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-3

Source: nextluxury.com/mens-style-and-fashion/buzz-cut-hair-for-men

The easiest way out of your hair misery is a buzz cut, and it suits those who are starting to thin over the crown area. If you don’t want to look like a monk, you can go for a more edgier style with this. The severity of your hair loss will determine the length of the shave.

The Clean Pate

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-4

Source: bellatory.com/hair/Are-Bald-Men-Attractive-To-Women

If you want to go rogue with that electric razor, a clean-shaven look also finds favor with a lot of the ladies. This has worked with some guys in Hollywood, however, it might also have to do with a good shape for a head. This is suits well for men who are left with very little hair on their heads. For a cleaner look, you can seek professional help instead of doing it yourself. The shave has to be done with the sharpest tool without error, so if this is your first time, might as well leave it to the pros.

 Short Mohawk

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-5

Source: machohairstyles.com/best-mohawk-fade

Guys who have more angle to their jaw would do well with this hairstyle as it draws attention to your jaw. You can have the sides shaved to highlight the Mohawk and still give the illusion of volume. Some guys play up the facial hair to complement the shaved sides.

Grow Facial Hair

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-6

Source: beardoholic.com/how-to-deal-with-patchy-beard

When you’re losing your locks, shaving it all off and embracing facial hair can also be sexy. The secret here is to groom it and not just let it go all bushy. Some may work a lumberjack beard, but a moustache and goatee can be just the right amount of follicle to steer the eyes away from what’s missing on top.

Pomp and Fade

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-7

Source: eighteeneight.com/lajolla-ca/10-mens-hairstyle-trends-2016-pompadour-edition

A very creative way to rock that receding hairline is to style a classic pompadour. This particular style is perfect for those whose receding hairlines form an M shape. It can accentuate your pomp better, even giving the illusion that you’re not losing it up front at all. This style would require a good amount of gel and a fine-toothed comb and you’ll have your retro-inspired hair in place.

The Ivy League Cut

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-8

Source: haircutinspiration.com/ivy-league-haircut

A nod to the classics will always give you a home run in the styling department. Sometimes referred to as the Harvard Clip or the Princeton, this is a type of crew cut which leaves the hair on top long enough to comb it into a side part. It is a step up in terms of length from the traditional crew cut, and it gives you that preppy and discreet look. The Ivy League is perfect for men who are slowly losing their locks as it is just the right shortness but still renders that illusion of length with an air of masculinity.

Tip: Take the time to find barbers who can nail down a good Ivy league cut as some often tend to confuse this overgrown crew cut with the traditional style.

Messy Side Trim

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-9

Source: mens-hairstyle.com/mens-messy-hairstyles-2014.html

If you prefer a more ruffled look that gives off that casual vibe, you can hide a receding hairline with a messy side trim. It starts with your hair slightly buzzed on the sides and the back, while the top is emphatically tousled. It’s also a clever way to hide thinning because all that hair adds structure and an illusion of volume.

Spiky Textured Cut

Hair Loss How To Get Creative When You Are Starting to Lose it-10

Source: www.fashion.psychology.com.pk/mens-hairstyles-and-haircuts/men-hairstyles-name-short-textured-haircut

A higher hairline can best be displayed with a spiky and textured hairstyle. This is an appropriate style for anyone who is losing hair but has those naturally thick follicles. Not all men who are balding have thin hair, so this style should highlight that and conceal any hint of thinning in some areas. A lightweight mousse or gel to hold that hair up, and you’re good to go!

Hair loss should not keep you from being stylish. If you don’t know where and how to style it yourself, get professional help and learn from there. Book a consultation here.

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Top 5 Factors that Increases Your Risk for Hair Loss

Top 5 Factors that Increases Your Risk for Hair Loss

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Are you wondering what in the world is causing your hair loss? You might be at a point where you find yourself alarmed at the amount of hair that’s been shedding, or the senseless exodus when you believe that you have been every inch the health buff. However, like an unraveling mystery, or bodies can sometimes surprise us. Here are 5 of the top reasons that would make you a potential hair loss victim.

Genetics

It has always been an erroneous belief that the hair loss gene hailed from the maternal side of the family. While it is true that the genetic factor for baldness is carried by the X chromosome, which you get from your mom, it is not necessarily true that it is the sole culprit. Genetic hair loss, or male/female pattern baldness, can also be passed down by the paternal genes.

Based on research, this form of hair loss is attributed to a particular androgen or male hormone. This androgen, which is tagged to be the main culprit for hair loss, is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is not to say that this particular hormone is bad in and of itself, as it also provides a number of important functions for the body like the development of the male genitalia in the womb.

Hair loss occurs when DHT attaches to androgen receptors on hair follicles which then triggers the receptors to start miniaturization process. Eventually, the hairs affected sheds off resulting in bald patches which that takes on certain shape hence the term “pattern baldness”. Experts have yet to fully understand why the effects of DHT are more profound in some individuals compared to others. However certain possible factors that have been pointed out include:

  • Increased local DHT production
  • Increased DHT receptors
  • Increased sensitivity of the androgen receptor
  • Increased amount of circulating testosterone which is a DHT precursor

Age

We often associate hair loss with old age, however, if you look at the trend this is not necessarily the case. There are a lot of hair loss sufferers who lose their locks and even end up bald, at an early age. Although, age-related hair loss is mostly experienced by individuals who are in their twilight years due to the gradual decline of the structures.

If you look at the progression of hair loss, it is usually in the late twenties to the mid-thirties that changes in the overall appearance and density of the hairs start. Pattern hair loss at a younger age has not yet fully revealed since it may still advance over the years. This is a key consideration for individuals who will be considering a hair transplant.

In the event that an elective surgery is done at an early age, future surgeries might have to be done to maintain the natural appearance. It is for this reason that you should be properly advised by a certified and experienced surgeon because procedures done too early may have to be surgically corrected.

Read: Why Are Young Men Losing Hair Early

Disease or Illness

Certain conditions can result in hair loss, such as thyroid diseases (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism), ringworm of the scalp, or Systemic lupus erythematosus. Hair loss is only incidental to the condition due to the depletion of certain nutrients in the body or hormonal shifts.

The common symptoms of thyroid problems in include scattered hair loss and this is true for both an underactive and overactive thyroid. Fortunately, the hair loss caused by this condition can be reversed with proper treatment.

Ringworm is a fungal infection that when left untreated will result in permanent scarring. Severe infections will still result in patches of hair loss even after treatment has been done.

A more serious condition associated with hair loss is lupus, an autoimmune condition which destroys the hair follicles. Furthermore, the medicines used can also trigger more hair shedding. To manage the problem suggestions include, wigs, hair wraps, hair extensions, or a hair transplant.

Other health problems with hair loss as presenting symptoms include heavy metal poisoning, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, late-stage syphilis, HIV and any severe ongoing or chronic illness. 

Medicines and medical treatments

Medications may be formulated to provide therapeutic effects, however, it is also inherent in their chemical makeup that they also pose a certain risk. This effect is a result of the interference of the normal hair growth cycle resulting in two types of hair loss, Telogen effluvium, and Anagen Effluvium. The list of medications that cause this problem include:

  • Anticoagulants
  • Large doses of Vitamin A
  • Beta-Blockers
  • Antidepressants
  • Gout Medications
  • ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors
  • Male and Female hormones

Medical treatments like Chemotherapy or dialysis may also result in hair changes which may eventually lead to hair loss. This is a reaction to malnutrition or the side effects of the medications used which leaves the patient immunocompromised. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is reversible once the course of treatment is finished.

Hair care and styling

The way you style your hair can pose a negative effect on the entire structure, especially if you wear it for prolonged periods of time. This is referred to as traction alopecia, caused by the strong amount of pressure applied on the roots of the hair follicles. Studies show that this is common among African-American hairstyles which tend to be scalp-pulling, similar to the tension created by weaves and extensions.

Read: Top-Knots and Man Buns: Hairstyles that Lead to Hair Loss in Men

Hair loss is a multifactorial phenomenon which has to be scrutinized more carefully if you are serious about getting the proper treatment and the likelihood of it being effective. To this effect, it is important that you find a good hair loss expert or surgeon, to guide you through the process of restoration.

If you have more questions, feel free to drop Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic a message.

Photo Source: Pexels.com

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International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) 24th World Congress

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Keeping yourself abreast with the latest in the practice that you are passionate about not only grows your knowledge, but it also improves the quality of your service. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) provides physicians, who specialize on hair transplant surgery, the continuing education necessary to equip them with the knowledge to deliver optimum treatment to patients who are suffering from pattern baldness.

Dr. Jassim Daood did not let the opportunity pass to join the ISHRS 24th World Congress held at the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on September 26-October 1, 2016. Dr. Daood believes that hair restoration surgery is a progressive practice on which your craft can be continually improved to meet the varying demands of clients.

If you have questions regarding hair loss and or surgical hair restoration, come and talk to us at the Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic today.

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Why is a Hair Transplant Worth Your Penny

Why is a Hair Transplant Worth Your Penny?

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There may be some bad news for those men who are not so lucky on the hair department. A recent survey showed that men who got a hair transplant were seen to be younger and attractive. On the other hand, balding men are thought to be older and less good-looking. So for those who are willing to brave the surgical treatment, you might be treading the right course!

One of the main reason why men get a hair transplant is to improve the way they look. Another affirmation that reflects the change they wish to create is the perception of others. So how does the general public react to a hair transplant or its results for that matter?

The Study and Its Relevance

A team led by Dr. Lisa Ishii of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine conducted a study to determine if hair transplant improves an observer’s observation on a patient’s age, attractiveness, successfulness, and approachability.

These efforts were driven by Ishii’s concern as to the lack of data on how much hair transplant really improve a person’s image. She explains that the procedure has been done for years with everybody assuming that it does something for the appearance, however that was never measured.

The randomized controlled experiment conducted between November 10 to December 6, 2015 used web-based survey with 122 volunteers. Participants were shown 2 side by side photos of 13 men in various ages, where 7 of whom have androgenetic alopecia but underwent hair transplant surgery.

The researchers concluded that men looked younger after a hair transplant. Furthermore, they are also perceived to be approachable, attractive and successful compared to those who have not undergone the procedure.

Aside from the difference in terms of aesthetics, these results are also relevant in other aspects. For instance, it plays a substantial role in the workplace and other social interactions. Experts are saying that having done so gives men more confidence, and that reflects on how they carry themselves further improving their attractiveness.

Hair Transplant

Despite the fact that hair transplant has been done for several years now, many people remain to be apprehensive about it. It may be the most invasive hair restoration process, but it has also improved so much. The techniques are done in such a way that results come out looking natural and the scars are better concealed.

Back in the day, people are particularly holding out on techniques like the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) because it creates a strip of scar that runs across the back of the scalp. This limits the person from wearing short hairstyles because it reveals that a procedure has been done. However, with the use of a trichophytic closure, it is possible to conceal scars better. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) also makes it possible to reduce scar formation and healing time.

This, among many others, is the reason why a lot of men are gaining more confidence over the procedure. And a surgeon’s portfolio would give you the receipts you need to trust the procedure. Statistics also showed that hair transplant increased by up to 76% from 2006 to 2014.

A lot of men are realizing that hair loss affected their appearance and their self-esteem putting them at a disadvantage at work or in other social situations prompting them to seek this procedure.

The Catch

However, before you go ahead and sign up for a procedure, it is worth noting that hair transplant is not that simple. As much as it can improve a person’s look and confidence, it can also go the total opposite. This all boils down to your surgeon of choice.

It can be remembered that hair transplant has been tossed out to the sidelines and ridiculed for creating unnatural results. However, we are far from that now because men suffering from hair loss can actually do something beautiful about their balding pate.

It takes a good deal of artistry and precision to ensure that an excellent result will come out of it. You just can’t randomly pick any hair surgeon without carefully scrutinizing their work. So you have to do your homework and make sure that you choose wisely. And when you do, the recent study results show what is coming to you.

Hair transplants are really worth the cost for men, and even for women, who are trying to cope with their hair loss granted that it is also done properly. The bottomline here is that any decision to undergo the procedure should be made for the person’s best interest, and not mainly to please a crowd.

To know more about how a hair transplant, come and talk to us at the Sydney Hair Transplant clinic. We perform FUT and FUE to ensure that you have a range of options to achieve the natural-looking results you wish to achieve. Book your consult today, and let’s get started!

Photo Source: Pexels.com

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When Should You Be Alarmed About Hair Loss

When Should You Be Alarmed About Hair Loss?

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Losing hair is not a death sentence. However, some react to it like its an apocalypse that just pretty much puts a period in their life. The reality is you don’t have to break out in hives the moment you lose a strand or two. What is important is that you get the facts straight so you don’t lose hair over all the unnecessary stress.

Your Hair at a Glance

Your hair is actually a very interesting part of your body that holds a lot of unique characteristics. One that most people don’t know is the fact that most of the structure that you see is actually dead. The length of your hair that grows out of your scalp is actually made up of dead cells, and the only part that thrives is the one hidden behind your scalp, or the roots.

Aside from bone marrow, it is also one of the fastest growing tissue in the body. It can grow anywhere in the body with the exception of the eyelids, lips, hands, palm of the hands, the soles of the feet and the mucus membranes. At any given time about 90% of the hairs on your scalp are growing, while the other 10% are resting. The latter explains why you experience falling hairs.

When Does Ordinary Hair Fall Differ From Excessive Hair Loss?

Daily hair loss is a normal phenomenon that stems from the hair’s resting phase. You lose around 50-100 hairs a day, most of the time, without you knowing it! So if you see a few strands on your brush, It doesn’t mean you’re going bald. Balding only begins to be apparent when you lose 50% of the hairs on your scalp.

Ordinary hair fall is actually a normal process that allows your hair to bring in a new and healthy strand in its place. A single hair has a lifespan of five years, so you expect to be losing a number every day since each strand grow at different paces.

What is also important is that you also need to be keen when something already goes awry – like in the instance of excessive hair loss.

Hair usually show signs of deterioration before you finally notice thinning on certain areas of the scalp, or it could come in a diffuse manner. In cases where a person could be affected by androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness), thyroid conditions, or certain medications and therapy, what happens on the inside is that the hair follicle gradually shrinks. This makes it unable to grow new hair, eventually this leads to hair shedding, and ultimately results in baldness.

hair loss sydney

Photo Source: 123RF

Not everybody is at risk, so that’s a sigh of relief. However, for those who are genetically predisposed, this can be a real challenge. Meanwhile, for people who lose their hair due to medications or certain therapeutic treatment, they may lose it temporarily but they eventually grow it back.

How Do You Respond to Hair Loss?

In dealing with the usual hair fall

Your normal hair loss, as mentioned earlier, should not be a cause for concern. However, you can keep it to a minimum by ensuring that you nourish and care for your hair well.  Giving it the right vitamins and minerals will strengthen the structure making them less prone to breakage. On the outside, you should avoid stressing it out by poor hairstyle choices and excessive product use. When you learn to keep the balance, then you significantly lessen hair fall.

In overcoming pattern baldness

If your DNA is already coded with hair loss, it doesn’t mean that you are a lost cause. When you treat it early, you will be able to hold on to those strands better and protect the remaining ones from succumbing to your genetic predisposition.

There is a range of treatments available for such cases. You can go for maintenance medications, but it should be taken with a doctor’s advise and supervision. You may also try laser therapy to help initiate hair growth, or you could take a drastic step towards hair transplant surgery, just as long as you avoid unappealing comb-overs.

In having to content with temporary hair loss due to medications and treatment

Thyroid disease and chemotherapy are among the reasons why a person can lose excessive amounts of hair to the point of balding, albeit being temporary. For thyroid disorders, the hair will be characteristically thin and a person will also experience thinning on the scalp. When you get the proper treatment, you can reduce the reaction significantly. However, realistically speaking, your hair will not be as voluminous as you would wish it to be. Celebrities like Wendy Williams share this struggle, but she deals with it stylishly by wearing wigs.

Chemotherapy, on the other hand, will cause a person to experience severe hair thinning and hair fall. Once the entire course of treatment is finished, a person will eventually grow their hair back, although the quality may not be the same prior to chemo.

Hair shedding shouldn’t be an end all and be all that would have you settling for a life of being hairless. The earlier you detect it, and when you know the exact causes, you can prevent the possibility of going bald. The best course of action is to act quickly. When there is significant amount of hair already falling off, go to your doctor right away.

It is only when a prompt diagnosis is made that you reduce your chances of a full blown hair exodus from your scalp. Be keen on the signs, and act accordingly.

If you have more questions, or if you see that you already need professional advise with your hair fall problem, come talk to us. Let’s talk and see what can be done. Send us your questions or book your consultation here.

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Not Everyone Can Get a Hair Transplant, and Here’s Why

Not Everyone Can Get a Hair Transplant, and Here’s Why

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Hair transplant is a procedure that calls for certain factors for you to be considered a good candidate. It’s not to give an air of exclusivity, rather it’s more of protecting the patient. With the right candidate, hair transplant will definitely create a significant improvement in one’s appearance. So, why then can’t anybody suffering from hair loss immediately qualify for hair restoration surgery?

If you think that going for surgery is a practical answer to your hair loss, then you might want to read on further. This is not to dissuade you against surgery, but to help you make an informed decision. Here are the reasons that will tell you whether you are a good candidate or not.

Finite amount of donors

Upon assessment, the surgeon will determine how much hair is viable and available for use. The donor site, found at the back of the head, is evaluated to see which among those strands would make for good potential grafts. Considering the area and the amount of hair that it contains, you can see that there is a finite amount of hair grafts that can be moved to the recipient site.

When there isn’t enough hair to cover the thinning or bald areas, or if it is not used efficiently, then hair transplant might just be a futile exercise as it could fail in providing you the coverage you want.

So when you go for a consultation, remember to keep an open mind. A good surgeon would not be afraid to tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly part of the situation.

Age

There is no hard set limit as to the age of a hair transplant candidate, however, surgeons are most careful in dealing with patients under 18. Since the pattern that the hair loss is evolving into is yet to be determined, surgeons would prefer that they be fully mature. It is crucial that the patient has realistic expectations of how their hair loss might potentially unfold.

Younger patients have immature hair loss which means the shedding will only continue to progress as they age. Therefore, getting a hair transplant too early would require other procedures in the future to maintain the results because hair loss will still continue to progress.

Experts would say that the right patients would be those at least around 30 years of age. It is usually at this time that the hair loss pattern has already been well established. Therefore, any hair restoration procedure done are more likely to provide natural-looking results over the years.

Severity

The severity of hair loss can also make or break a person’s candidacy for a hair transplant. In relation to the first factor discussed earlier, the extent of your hair loss will also determine the amount of hair grafts needed. So if you hit Class 7 on the Norwood Scale for men or Class 3 for women, which are actually classified as severe hair loss cases. Since the amount of hair largely determines the results, your surgeon will open you up to more details about other hair restoration options.

General Health

Another important consideration prior to any surgery is that patients ought to be healthy enough to undergo a certain invasive procedure. It is important that any serious medical condition should be treated first since a healthy immune system is a step forward to surgical success.

There are certain medical maladies such as diabetes which could affect your recovery process. Bleeding problems, or medications that might increase its tendency, can also be a deterrent. Furthermore, thyroid problems should also be managed first before a hair transplant surgery is considered.

Given that you fall within the four mentioned above, it shouldn’t readily mean that you just leave surgical option off your list. Talk to a surgeon and know what available options are there for your specific case.

After a consultation, the surgeon will then make an evaluation to point out the root cause of your hair loss and from there he would be able to recommend the appropriate treatment option.

So who then would be a good candidate?

It would be an individual who is generally healthy without any contraindications for the surgery. The absence of any family history of severe male pattern baldness and ideally it should be one who has already tried medications to reduce hair loss.

In most cases, those who can most benefit from surgical hair restoration include the following:

  1. Men and women with male pattern hair loss
  2. Those who wish to cover scars obtained from surgery, injuries or skin disease
  3. Men and women who wish to restore or change the shape of their hairline
  4. Individuals who wish to thicken or restore the volume of their eyebrows or beard.
  5. Those who wish to correct a previous hair transplant

The criteria set by surgeons may slightly vary, but overall, a good one would be conscientious of the red flags in certain cases they encounter. With that, it would tell you that your choice of surgeon is crucial to your surgical success. For you might not be a good candidate and yet here comes an unscrupulous practitioner who would lure you into immediately going for a surgery.

So now that you know, keep an open mind and ensure to hold on to realistic expectations. Surgery may seem like the end-all and be-all but it is still best to determine whether if it is indeed the right course of action for your case.

If you have more questions, book your consultation today and allow us to help you know more about the potential treatments that would be suitable for you!

Photo Source: 123Rf

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Superfoods for Hair Loss: Eat your way to hair regrowth

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superfoods-for-hair-growth-sht-blog

You don’t have to blame entirely your parents for your thinning mane. It turns out, it is not only genetics—our diet and certain lifestyle choices can also tell whether we’re down the balding road or not.

According to the International Hair Restoration Society, people who are tied to typical eating patterns or married to restrictive diets may have a higher risk of hair loss. This is because these kinds of diet do not guarantee the presence or right amount of essential nutrients such as Zinc, protein, Biotin, and iron which are crucial to maintaining healthy hair follicles so hair growth occurs.

Thankfully, nutritionists and hair loss researchers have teamed up to list down ‘superfoods’ that alleviate and prevent hair loss. What’s more surprising is, you don’t need to make your way to a specialty store to stock-up these nutrient-packed munchies! You may even have them in an arm’s reach.

Let’s have a closer look at how ‘super’ these food items are when it comes to treating and regrowing your thinning mane:

 

Spinach

On your next trip to the grocery store, stroll to the vegetable section for a bag of spinach. Spinach, not only Popeye’s go-to food to bulk up but also can be your go-to superfood to load up nutrients for your hair follicles.

According to the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, spinach is listed as one of the remedies to treat alopecia. It is rich in iron, protein, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin C which enables the body to balance out hormones and to produce essential oils in the scalp. These natural oils condition the scalp which eventually lead to increase hair growth.

 

Sunflower (Oil & Seeds)

Those pretty sunflowers are not just there to light up your Tuscan-themed brunches but they also work wonders for inducing hair growth. You may want to start to stock up a bag of sunflower seeds and a bottle of sunflower oil. Did you know that sunflowers seeds are rich in Zinc, vitamin E, oleic acid and vitamin B6? These nutrients strengthen your hair strands and improve oxygen and blood flow while sunflower oil’s emollient properties condition the scalp, making it a viable environment for your tresses to grow.

There’s something to remember, though. If you’re using its oils for cooking or garnish, be careful with the amount that you put in because as much as it is celebrated for its heart-friendly fats—the monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, it contains a hefty amount of calories. A tablespoon alone has 184 calories. Just like other healthy fat sources, like avocado or virgin coconut oil, it should be used in moderation to reap up the benefits without setting yourself up for unwanted weight gain.

 

Eggs

Your locks may want to thank those early morning sunny-side-ups and tasty quiches.  Did you know that our hair is made up protein fibers called Keratin? The nutrients found in egg, mainly protein, Sulphur, Zinc, and vitamin E bring back the health from the roots of your strands, making it possible for a healthier regrowth.

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Fortunately, according to the Dietitians Association of Australia, a typical Aussie diet is basically protein-packed.  However, Aussies still needs to be careful on choosing their protein sources as others have are burdened with saturated fats. And these are our least favorite type of fats, right?

 

Black Raisins

If you are suffering from hair loss, you might be iron-deficient. Iron is vital for hair health and growth because it helps in the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red protein which assists the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Moreover, having a good circulation is crucial to stimulate our hair follicles and encourage hair growth.

Aside from other nutrients such as calcium, vitamin K, magnesium, and anti-oxidant properties, iron can also be found in black raisins. A small box of raisins contains 0.8 milligrams of Iron. According to healthline.com, women are recommended to consume 18 milligrams of iron daily while men should have at least 8 milligrams. Healthline also noted that because of this higher iron requirement, women may have higher risks of being iron-deficient than men.

Adding these black iron gems in your diet can positively affect not only your tresses but your health in general as well. Why not have it as a snack or as toppings for your baked goodies? Weight-watchers do not need to worry, black raisins don’t raise a red flag as a mere box contains low-fat content—as the perfect post-workout snack!

 

There you go. These are some of what you want to be adding to your list the next time you stroll to the supermarket. Moreover, these foods are versatile ingredients, thus, they would perfectly complement the recipes you’re already used to.

Although these hair superfoods may be one of the answers, there’s no really definite time when to see our desired results because each hair loss case is different and other lifestyle factors may be playing out as well. It may take some time to restore hair’s natural cycle before you can finally bring back your ‘crowning glory’. For some, it would take years. But don’t lose hope! What some people do is, they complement their nutrient-rich diet efforts with exploring other hair loss solutions such as medications and hair transplants.

Each of the available hair loss solutions has its own pros and cons. However, based on the recent statistics, hair transplants seem to be the choice of the many to address what seems like a perennial problem.

The 2015 data from the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery reported 1,055,480 patients who have undergone hair restoration procedures, lording over the figures of the year 2006 with 645,281 patients.

Behind every successful transplant procedure is a careful assessment of the root cause of the problem and the right treatment for it. The nature of our scalp, our hair follicles, diet, lifestyle and our biological reaction to certain substances are different. This is why it really pays to never cut corners and treat our problem as special from others. Reputable and competent surgeons and dermatologists are very aware of this matter and they will have you prepare enough for the operation to ensure no complications will occur.

You should not be perennially obsessed with hair loss problem. Let’s explore the available solutions suitable for you so you can finally toss out those horrific wigs and toupees and enjoy a fuller, thicker hair! Book a consultation and talk to us!

Image Source: Jay Wennington via unsplash.com and pexels.com

 

 

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What You Could Be Giving Up When You’re Bulking Up

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Men, it seems, are getting more conscious of their appearance, sometimes even competing with the ladies. From sleek haircuts, groomed eyebrows, to looking all dapper, a lot of guys today give breath to what being “metrosexual” means – sometimes to a fault. Some, in their attempts to look every bit of perfection, are willing to do anything to their bodies. But is it really worth it if it means facing potential hair loss?

Getting the desired body at a cost

Beyond the ensemble or any outward accoutrements, a lot of men are very much concerned with the structure underneath. A lot of guys are bent on getting into good shape which explains the dramatic spike in gym memberships in the past years. This is evident in the $8.5 million shelled by Aussies each year.

As much as health is an outlying concern, appearance can also be a large motivator. When you add desperation and impatience into the mix, people tend to dive into quick and easier solutions. This is where gym supplements come in with all their glossy promises of a muscular physique.

Supplements often come in powdered or capsule form  and these work by either giving a person more energy, protein, or a boost in one’s metabolism. Many gym enthusiasts rely on supplements to aid them in muscle building to achieve a more dramatic transformation. Protein supplements, in particular, are preferable options to buff up really well, to achieve a good form.

There is nothing wrong with using these supplements, however, it should be worth knowing that these also come with untoward reactions. In this case, it is usually hair that gets the brunt of the harmful effects.

The Irony Behind Growth Hormones

Certain protein shake include additives like inorganic growth hormones and creatine which are intended to promote the growth of muscle mass. However, in doing so this also raises testosterone levels in your blood stream. In and of itself, these growth hormones are not harmful, but if men who are already genetically predisposed to balding is exposed to it, the effects can be accelerated.

Men with a family history of hair thinning or hair loss should be particularly concerned when their testosterone levels get high, because these hormones exacerbate the situation. What is so interesting is that our bodies react to these hormones differently, and for some guys elevated testosterone levels can be rather problematic.

This primary male hormone can be broken down by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase which results in a chemical called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT),or the culprit behind hair thinning and hair loss. It works by inhibiting the growth of new hair cells in the scalp. To an untrained eye, the man may seem to be losing hair normally, however, the problem with this case is that he will no longer have any more growth to replace those that have shed. Eventually, this will become observable which will even lead to a more pronounced balding.

The protein shakes that men take prior to or after their workout can lead to such problems because it makes men susceptible to male pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia. The more testosterone is introduced into your system, the more hormone is there available to be transformed into DHT.

It is important to make a clear distinction that protein shakes per se doesn’t cause a receding hairline or baldness, it can only accelerate the process in certain men. There has been an increase in the trend of young men losing their hair early. In an interview, Dr. Thomy Kouremada-Zioga, shared that “growth hormones such as creatine and DHEA not only increase muscle mass, but also increase testosterone levels in the bloodstream.”

What can you do about it?

If you are among those who are at risk for hair loss, the best advise that experts give is to kick the protein shake habit. Get your protein fix from high-protein foods instead. Incorporate chicken, fish, and eggs into your meal.

The hair follicles that were already damaged may no longer be recovered, but you can stop further damage if you stop the ongoing destructive process.

You might also want to check the exercises you are doing, as there are some that could also increase testosterone levels by a mile, which can also lead to the same hair loss effect.

If you want to keep your hair, make the change today. If you want to restore what’s been lost, come talk to us at Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic. Call in for a consultation today and know that being hairless doesn’t have to be permanent!

Photo credit: d_vdm via Foter.com / CC BY-SA

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Hair Transplant 5 Things to Expect When You Cut Corners

Hair Transplant: 5 Things to Expect When You Cut Corners

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It is expected for people to jump right into something that would give them the most at a low cost. This is the premise behind the captivating power of sales and discounts. But when it comes to surgical procedures, this may not be such a good idea to entertain – and this includes a hair transplant. This shouldn’t be one of those instances when you pinch pennies and settle on what comes cheapest, because largely relying on a low price could leave you with the following problems.

  1. Incompetence

A low price doesn’t always mean that you’re getting the shorter end of the rope, as there are some places which can also deliver a decent outcome. However, more often than not, a significantly cheaper hair transplant procedure may seem suspect.

One might be easily blinded by discounted prices or a cheap one at that, however, this is not the essential requisite when you intend to arrive at a safe and successful outcome. Always be inquisitive of the finer details behind the dollar sign, and in doing so, always err on the side of caution. Sometimes, something that sounds too good to be true, could simply be just that.

Here’s a tip: Surgeons who have the training, experience, and reputation put a premium on their work, which explains why hair transplants are pegged at a certain price range.

In Australia, the average hair transplant cost is around $6-$30 per hair graft. The price varies depending on the area or clinic, the type of technique used, the amount of work that needs to be done, and the number of grafts needed for a particular procedure.

As laws governing cosmetic surgery in Australia are tightening, patients are now in a better position to be protected from botched outcomes. Since this isn’t a guarantee, it is still necessary that patients do their research to look for the reliable and reputable surgeons.

  1. Lower expectations

Isn’t it true that when we buy a cheaper version of something, like a TV or a pair of shoes perhaps, we don’t get our expectations up. Rather, we simply manage them. But is this what you want to feel after a radical procedure?

Cosmetic surgery may be regarded as the “wild west” of medicine due to the less stringent regulations. But this shouldn’t discredit those whose practice is evidenced by an impressive portfolio of previous procedures. Australia alone is home to several surgeons who have the training, skills and experience to create highly satisfying results. So before you sign on the dotted line, make sure that you entrust your finite resources to someone who has the credentials to give you the outcome you want, not what you are forced to settle for.

  1. Complications

The risk of complications is always present in any invasive procedure, and this can happen at any time during the entire intraoperative process (pre-op to post-op). Adverse reactions to medications, bleeding, and infection just sit at the other side of success.

How do you then lessen the chances of complications?

Find a competent surgeon

Choosing a good hair transplant surgeon would be of primary importance. This sets the tone for how a hair transplant procedure turns out. Patients need to be aware that not everyone who performs hair surgery is a cosmetic surgeon, and that is what you need to steer clear of. Good research can go a long way, and it will help you narrow down your choices to reputable surgeons who are able to provide good results that you can also be satisfied with.

Adequately prepare for surgery

We have mentioned financial preparations and how they can affect your surgical success. Being physically and psychologically prepared for your procedure is also an indispensable part of the process. For instance, surgeons would advise patients to avoid alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, and other blood-thinning medications at least a week before surgery and even while you recuperate. This is to prevent prolonged healing and potential complications like bleeding, infections, and poor scar formation.

Preparing your mind for your surgery is just as important as the physical aspect. A realistic grasp of the procedure allows a patient to have a sensible expectation for the outcome. For example, if a patient is well within his 50’s, his expected hairline post-operatively may not be the same as that of someone who is in his 30’s. Surgeons design this as such so that end results would turn out looking natural. In a hair transplant, there are no cookie-cutter results. A good surgeon plans for a treatment that would create an outcome most suitable for a specific patient.

Follow post-op instructions

The success of the post-operative period relies largely on how you follow through with the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. Yes, he would still be overseeing your general healing process, but it is how you adhere to the aftercare that also makes a huge difference.

Religiously going through the entire course of antibiotic treatment, even in the absence of any infection, makes your healing process much safer from opportunistic bacteria, which could spell disaster should you let your guard down. Conversely, throwing caution to the wind and taking that puff of a cigarette a few days after your surgery thinking that you’re not showing untoward signs anyway, would delay healing.

  1. Uneven Distribution of Grafts

In relation to the first reason mentioned above, this one can be a result of poor decision making on the part of the surgeon. Hair transplants require precision and a good eye for aesthetics to create an impressive and natural-looking result.

Uneven distribution of donor grafts can either result in poor hair density in some areas or a bad hairline. Remember, you don’t want your outcome to be screaming that you just had a hair transplant, and neither should you want it to be obvious for the wrong reasons.

Graft distribution, direction, and even its angle of protrusion are all important aspects to be considered with a hair transplant. This can be achieved when you entrust your procedure to a good hair transplant surgeon. And when you make the rounds in looking for one, always ask how they would approach your treatment and your case.

  1. A Second Hair Transplant

A second hair transplant is definitely more expensive than the first. This can simply be your reason for ensuring that you don’t cut corners on the first one. Yes, there are surgeons who are able to remedy a botched hair transplant outcome, but these will never come cheap. So take the necessary measures to ensure that should any subsequent procedure be necessary, it would only be progressive in nature and not corrective.

Preparing for hair transplant surgery is a very important part of the process. If you think that there are some concerns that are not covered here, come talk to us today by sending us an inquiry.

Photo Source: Pexels

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