All Posts in Category: Hair Transplant

Hair Transplant Aftercare Cheat Sheet

Hair Transplant Aftercare Cheat Sheet [Updated]

Posted  Last updated on 

The final stretch is a critical time in achieving your desired results. At this point, the ball is in your court and you play a significant part in making sure that you are setting yourself up for surgical success. To help you sway things in that direction, here are hair transplant aftercare tips to get you started.

Normal Things to Expect

Before anything else, it is important that you know what you will normally expect after surgery. While it may not always look and feel pleasing, these are body reactions you can expect. 

SHT-February-Blog-Photo-1

General Hair Care Instructions

While you care for your hair in its initial stages of healing, it is important that you remember these quick and simple reminders. 

On washing and grooming your hair

Some surgeons allow gentle hair washing on the day after surgery. However, extra care should be given to avoid dislodging the grafts accidentally. Don’t let the stream of water from the shower hit your head directly to prevent dislodging the newly implanted grafts. To rinse the area, it’s better that you rinse it gently using a cup to slowly pour water over it. Dry the area by dabbing it with a soft towel, and comb it gently so as not to dislodge the grafts or disturb incisions.

On managing sutures

The sutures used during hair transplant are non-dissolvable, so careful aftercare measures must be taken until they can be removed. If in any case the sutures get dislodged prematurely, avoid puttling it out and just allow it to fall by itself. Just wait for the incision to close until it’s time to take them off, usually around the second week after surgery.

On avoiding habits that may compromise healing

Alcohol and cigarettes are some of the components that hamper healing. Avoid them for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery. Both interfere with wound healing, it counteracts the effects of your medications, and may even increase your risk for complications such as bleeding. It is also advised that you control your caffeine fix to 2 cups a day because even your favorite grind may increase bleeding tendencies.

Important Points on Hair Transplant Surgery Aftercare

Now, we go into details about the usual concerns that have a significant bearing on your healing process. 

Pain Control

Pain is a subjective experience, but this is an expected sensation during the first 2 nights following surgery. To alleviate any discomfort on the surgical sites involved, you can always take the pain medication prescribed by your doctor. This should control your discomfort, allowing you to rest and heal better.

Medications prescribed may include:

  • Acetaminophen – over-the-counter pain medications to treat mild to moderate pain (ex. Tylenol)
  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) – over-the-counter medications to treat mild to moderate pain (ex. Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
  • Opioids – for moderate to severe pain

In any case that the pain increases in intensity days after your procedure, report this to your surgeon. Pain can be a sign of infection, especially if there is redness in the area, warm to the touch, or if you develop a fever.

Wound Care

Proper wound care is essential for effective wound healing on the donor and recipient sites. Hair transplantation is treated much like any other post-surgical wound. It involves days of head dressings, punch grafts healing, and antibiotic therapy. How you manage these affects the way your wound heals, which is critical especially among FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) patients. 

Donor Area

The wound at the donor area requires additional collagen formation for it to heal. Eating the right foods, a potent supplement, and proper hydration can help boost your natural collagen.

If a tricophytic closure is used, healing at the donor site will be a combination of full thickness and partial thickness wounds. This needs proper moisture balance to optimize healing and reduction of tension to reduce scarring.

Furthermore, the importance of cleansing the back of the scalp – or the donor area – cannot be emphasized enough. You need to soak the area with water for one minute. Unless it is contraindicated by the surgeon, you can massage the donor area with shampoo using the pads of your fingers. Just let the water gently stream over the back of your head and prevent it from directly hitting the top of your scalp where the new grafts are implanted.

Recipient Site

The recipient site heals faster than the donor area due to the small size of the incisions created. Good moisture balance is also necessary to maintain optimal healing. While some think that Vaseline is adequate in providing moisture, some prefer to use medicated ointments.

Washing the new grafts must be done very gently. Surgeons suggest that you should not touch the grafts for the first week. You can prepare soapy water over the area. To prepare this you can dissolve a teaspoon of shampoo to a pitcher of water and pour it gently over the new grafts for 20 seconds. Rinse it for a good 20 seconds as well. Avoid doing it for too long or the grafts may absorb water and “pop up.”

After the first week, you can already start to work on loosening the crusts. Remember that excessive crust formation is also linked to potential infections. To carefully loosen these, you may place a bit of baby oil and gently rub it with the pads of your fingers. Follow it up with shampoo or a soapy solution before rinsing it with water. Never use fingernails to pick off the scabs as this can lead to scarring. Shampooing every day can help loosen the scabs until these are ready to fall off.

Every surgeon has their own post-surgical care instructions, but regardless of what they are it must be followed to the dot. Also remember that while some of the factors for wound healing is under the patient’s direct control, much of it is not. As a matter of fact, a large portion of wound healing has much to do with the surgeon’s techniques and the patient’s biological makeup. However, using the right techniques helps sway things in the right direction. 

Antibiotics 

There are some disputes among doctors regarding the use of antibiotics after hair transplant surgery. In most cases, doctors prescribe preventative antibiotics (prophylactic treatment), but some believe that there is no need for it at all. They believe that it is only necessary to provide antibiotic treatment only if there is already an infection present.

However, some doctors prefer that they give the medication right after treatment. This is to avoid any potential cause of infection.

Work and Exercise

You are to refrain from any strenuous activities during the first week after surgery. Minimal activity is recommended for the first 12 hours. It is also important to avoid excessive head movements and bending over during the first 24 hours. This is to prevent undue stress on the surgical site especially when it is still highly vulnerable. Some people may return to light work the day after surgery, but some may prefer to take at least 2-4 days off from work. However, due to physical signs of healing such as swelling and crusting, some patients opt to take a week off.

Follow-Up Check-Up

The follow-up check-up is an important step because this is a way for your surgeon to monitor your progress. You will also be set an appointment for suture removal around 2-3 weeks after surgery. Depending on your surgeon, there will a number of follow-up visits within the first year after your surgery. 

What You need to Do About Potential Adverse Reactions:

Bleeding

You may expect bleeding to occur the night after surgery and a few days after that. This may stop if firm pressure is applied on the area for 15 minutes. You can press it firmly but gently to prevent dislodging any surrounding grafts.

If you are unable to control the bleeding with rest and gentle pressure, inform your surgeon right away. Persistent bleeding is a sign that your surgical site is not healing as it should be.

Swelling

Swelling is an inflammatory response of the body to the slight trauma created by the surgery. It usually occurs on the forehead around day 2-4 after the procedure. The swelling may descend to the eyelids due to gravity.  However, this should be no cause for worry because it will not leave any permanent problems.

You can significantly reduce swelling if you sleep with your head elevated at 45 degrees for at least 3 nights. To do this you may prop up your head on two pillows or use a recliner. 

Normally, swelling would subside by itself within a couple of days. Therefore, any prolonged swelling, especially if it is accompanied by pain or if it is warm to the touch, may be a sign of infection.

Infection 

The risk for infection is present in any surgical procedure. While it may be rare in hair transplants, the likelihood of it happening cannot be eliminated.

The telltale signs of infection may include redness, discomfort, swelling, or bleeding. This implies that the surgical site is compromised.

To prevent infection after hair transplant surgery you can follow these tips:

  • Avoid touching the surgical site (donor and recipient areas)
  • Do not pick on the scabs as they heal, allow them to fall off by itself
  • Follow post-op care instructions carefully
  • Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages during recovery
  • Make sure that you attend follow-up visits as scheduled by your surgeons

If you think you show any signs of an infection, immediately report it to your doctor so that prompt treatment can be given.

Remember that these are just general information which you can use during your consultation to ask the right questions. You are more than welcome to ask us your questions or concerns. Book your consultation with Dr. Daood today. 

Book your Private Consultation

If you are considering FUE or FUT Hair Transplant surgery please contact us for further information on pricing and procedural information.

To book a private consultation today with Dr. Daood call 1300 656 236.

Read More
8 Receding Hairline Treatments in 2019

8 Receding Hairline Treatments in 2019

Is your hairline starting to look like a shoreline with an incoming low tide? If the amount of hair loss is getting obvious by the day, it is wise to act on it now if you plan to manage its progression. There are several receding hairline treatments that are available for you to use at present, all with their own approach to control excessive shedding and restore hair volume.

If you are looking for a way to address your follicular dilemma, then you must read this.

Hair Loss Facts

Hair loss doesn’t necessarily mean that you are experiencing a medical crisis. It is normal for us to lose hair every day. However, we don’t lose them in clumps, rather, we only shed around 50-100 hair strands each day. That may sound like a lot, but you’ll hardly even notice this at all. It’ s only when there is significant hair loss that it becomes apparent that hair density is thinning out, or it may be your hairline starting to recede.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8diYLhl8bWU

Excessive hair loss is a multifactorial phenomenon. It could potentially stem from genetics, stress, medications, or certain conditions. In men, the usual culprit behind the problem is embedded in their DNA which results in a condition referred to as male androgenetic alopecia. This is true not only in older gentlemen, but even for younger men as well.

Androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness is caused by a hormone which triggers hair thinning and shedding. In some men, it may start in the middle portion of the scalp while it slowly increases in diameter. For others, it can start at the frontal hairline and it recedes backward.

Receding Hairline Treatments

Propecia

Finasteride (Propecia) is an FDA-approved first-line treatment for male androgenetic alopecia. Originally indicated for enlarged prostates, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it was later discovered that it can also trigger hair growth. However, it is only possible by using a fifth of the dose prescribed for prostate enlargement. The medication has shown reliable results in halting receding hairlines and restoring hair density.

Originally indicated for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it was later discovered that Finasteride can also trigger hair growth.

However, the success is marred with threats of impotence, sexual dysfunction, and other untoward side effects. It may be able to save your locks, but it can also adversely affect your libido. Concern stems from the fact that medications must be taken regularly to maintain results. It has been reported that it is with long-term use that sexual side effects occur.  

Today, Propecia is still considered a safe and well-tolerated medication. Researchers are still pushing for further research to extensively evaluate if there are any unique characteristics that are present in affected individuals suffering from prolonged sexual dysfunction, and even depression, after using Propecia.

This potential side effect is an important matter for discussion between you and your doctor before treatment is started so you can be guided accordingly. Men with a history of oligospermia (low sperm count) or infertility are advised to avoid the drug, especially if you are planning to start a family soon.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is also a recognized treatment for a receding hairline or male pattern baldness. Originally used to treat hypertension, it was also observed that one of its side effects is increased hair growth. While this response is not fully understood, researchers believe that it stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the hair follicles that encourages hair to grow. Eventually, these results earned Minoxidil an FDA approval for male androgenetic alopecia.

Minoxidil is a topical treatment against receding hairlines or male pattern baldness.

Topical Minoxidil has been proven to be an effective treatment for hair loss; taking around six months to see results. However, the major factor to take into consideration when using minoxidil is your commitment to the product. It is best applied twice a day and it must be taken religiously otherwise its effects will revert if discontinued.

Proper application is also essential to ensure that it is thoroughly applied to the scalp. It must be sufficiently absorbed to deliver the treatment down to the hair follicles where it is needed the most. Make sure that your hair and scalp is cleaned thoroughly and dried prior to application. A clarifying shampoo helps remove buildup from excess oils and styling products.

The problem with minoxidil is that alcohol is the ingredient which allows the medication to penetrate the scalp. Alcohol-based products can dry the skin and scalp resulting in dandruff. You may need to use an anti-dandruff shampoo to counter this problem.

Corticosteroid

This treatment is generally recommended for the treatment of alopecia areata as well as other severe forms such as alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis. This medication comes in injectable, topical or oral form with an aim to prevent the immune system from attacking the hair follicles and encourage hair regrowth in patients suffering from alopecia.

Corticosteroid prevents the immune system from attacking the hair follicles and cause hair loss.

Steroid injections are best used on small patches of hair loss. The treatment may involve having several injections to deliver the solution directly to the scalp. This is also its drawback because patients must be subjected to it every few months as it is required in the administration of this drug. 

Topical steroids on the other hand are applied directly on the scalp surface. It is sold as a lotion, gel, or foam. This is an easier means of application with the type of corticosteroids delivered including, betamethasone, mometasone, and hydrocortisone. While they are convenient, it is important that a patient be mindful of the associated side effects with prolonged use, such as acne and thinning of the skin.

Steroid tablets are no longer recommended for the treatment alopecia because it was found that they pose serious side effects such as stomach ulcers and diabetes.

Laser Treatment

One of the hair loss treatments that is slowly making a mark in the market today is low-level laser hair treatment. With the movement towards non-invasive options, it’s no surprise that laser is gaining favor in a lot of hair loss victims. But how effective is it in delivering its promised results?

Low-level laser helps stimulate hair growth and it can also be an adjunct therapy to other hair loss treatments.

The use of laser in hair restoration should be taken with a grain of salt because it is not a definitive or a miracle treatment. There are several factors that must be taken into consideration such as the extent of hair loss, the treatment that it is concurrently used with, and the type of hair loss that you are suffering from.

In a recent study, it was shown that laser treatment created a significant improvement in patients with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). With some slight variety in data, some studies showed that low-level laser treatment is effective when combined with topical minoxidil. However, when compared to the results of a hair transplant, the latter provides a faster and more dramatic change.

Hair Transplant

hair transplant procedure is considered the last resort in hair restoration because of its invasive nature. It is for this reason and the accompanying cost that makes proper advice and planning is necessary to ensure positive results. 

Surgical hair restoration comes in two different approaches, the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). FUT is the traditional method which involves the creation of a linear incision that runs across the back of the scalp to remove a piece of the scalp containing the donor hairs. Meanwhile, the FUE method is less invasive because it only involves the removal of the donor grafts directly on the scalp using a special tool. It is less traumatic to the scalp and it doesn’t result in obvious scars, however it may be pricier.

Proper advice and planning are necessary to help ensure a positive outcome with Hair Transplant surgery. 

Hair transplant price vary for each individual, and it depends on the following:

  • The area of hair loss that must be covered
  • The type of technique used
  • The country, region, or clinic where you will have your hair transplant done
  • The doctor who performs the procedure
  • The type of procedure (whether if it is a primary procedure or a repair)

Hair transplant surgery has been hailed a reliable solution in restoring hair loss. It may come with risks inherent to its surgical nature, but this can be significantly lessened when you have it done by reputable and certified surgeons. It gives you the volume and coverage that comes out natural-looking. Therefore, despite its cost, many are considering this treatment.

Start by getting the help that you need today from someone who is on the same page as you. Book your consultation today and ask Dr Daood of the Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic your burning hair transplant questions.

Read More
How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost in Australia? Sydney Hair Transplant

How Much Does a Hair Transplant Cost in Australia?

Last updated on May 28th, 2019 at 9:00 am

Male pattern baldness is very common. So common in fact that it accounts for over 95 percent of hair loss in men. To that end, many of them have tried to manage it by trying everything from restorative shampoos and herbal remedies to preventative creams and nanofiber sprays. Some interventions work to a certain degree; but in a lot of cases, none offer a lasting solution.

This is where hair transplants come in.

The procedure has come a long way since it was first introduced and is now recognized as a more lasting solution to hair loss. However, this option usually comes with a price—literally. Cost is a major consideration for this procedure. And anyone considering it has to always start by asking themselves: exactly much would a hair transplant cost in Australia?

To give you a better idea of how much you have to spend to get this procedure, it’s important to look at the different factors that contribute to its cost–

Hair Transplant Consultation

Most assume that hair transplant consultations are simple. However, it’s not as straightforward as setting an appointment for your surgery. Even when you’re prepared to shoulder the full hair transplant cost, you can’t just walk in and say you’re interested in a procedure and get a schedule. Why? For starters, not everyone is a good candidate for hair transplant surgery. Criteria such as whether or not you have enough donor hair and what kind of hair loss does you have to be checked and considered. And these are factors that only reliable and reputable doctor will be able to provide accurately. In any case, numerous clinics may refund this amount if you do decide to proceed with the surgery.

You may also come across clinics that offer free consultations. Take note however that your appointment may not necessarily be with a doctor or surgeon and you will be talking to the clinic’s hair transplant specialist instead. This means you may not receive an in-depth clinical assessment of your condition and your appropriate way forward.

Aside from word of mouth and personal research, a personal consultation is really the best way to determine whether hair transplant surgery is for you and if you’re potentially going to be working with a good doctor. You would want someone who fully understands your aesthetics and goals, especially since this is going to be quite a significant financial investment. If that means you have to shell out a consultation fee to start with, it’s bound to be money well spent.

However, at Sydney Hair Transplant, we waive your consultation fee and you get an in-person consultation with Dr. Daood.

Hair Transplant Treatment Area

The size of the area that requires treatment is also a significant factor in your hair transplant cost. Quite simply, larger hairless patches will require more work; which raises the total expense of the procedure.

If you’re in the early stages of hair loss, you might assume that it’s better to go through surgery now and keep the hair transplant cost low. However, most surgeons will usually advise you to check out non-invasive alternatives first.

Techniques for Hair Transplant

There are two techniques for hair transplant procedures– the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction). Each procedure varies in terms of technique and difficulty—and to that end, has differences when it comes to exposure to risks, time to complete the procedure, and skill. All these are factors that contribute to the cost of each technique.

FUT, which is known as the traditional technique involves making a long incision across the back of your head to remove a piece of your scalp, which contains hair grafts. Each graft runs around $7, usually for the first 500 grafts. Anything more and the price goes down to an average of $5.50 per graft since more coverage is needed.

How many grafts will you need?

The cost of your FUT hair transplant depends solely on the number of follicles/grafts ( average follicle has 1.6 hairs) you need.

The 1st 500 grafts @$7.70
The 2nd 500 grafts @ $6.60
The next 1000 grafts @ 5.50
The next 500 grafts @4.40
Thereafter $3.30 per graft

hair-transplant-cost-sydney-per-graft-and-hair-loss-type

Image via www.EnhanceMyself.com

GraftsInc. GST
500$3,273
1,000$6,078
1,500$8,415
2,000$10,753
2,500$11,880
3,000$13,200

Note: The total cost will vary accordingly based on the patient’s aesthetic goals, and the amount of work, or grafts, needed to achieve it. This is why a personal consultation is necessary to ensure that extensive evaluation is made on a certain case.

FUE, on the other hand is a relatively new approach that is less invasive, which entails donor grafts being removed directly from its original location using a special tool that acts like a punch. This results in a more natural aesthetic because you don’t have to worry about scarring at the back of your head. This also means the healing process is much faster. However, this technique commands a higher price as it requires more skill to perform it successfully. In Australia, this would be around $12 to $18 per graft.

How many grafts will you need?

The cost of your FUE hair transplant depends solely on the number of follicles/grafts ( average follicle has 1.6 hairs) you need.

The 1st 1000 grafts @ $9.90
The next 500 grafts @ $8.80
The next 500 grafts @ $7.70
The next 500 grafts @ $6.60
Thereafter $5.50 per graft

hair-transplant-cost-sydney-per-graft-and-hair-loss-type

Image via 

www.EnhanceMyself.com

GraftsInc. GST
500$4,208
1,000$8,415
1,500$12,155
2,000$15,428
2,500$17,160
3,000$19,360

Note: The total cost will vary accordingly based on the patient’s aesthetic goals, and the amount of work, or grafts, needed to achieve it. This is why a personal consultation is necessary to ensure that extensive evaluation is made on a certain case.

Eyebrow Hair Transplant

Hair transplants aren’t exclusively for the scalp. Sparse brows can also be remedied by surgical intervention. This will involve taking hair from another part of your body and placing it on your brow area to create your desired brow shape. The cost for this procedure can run anywhere from $4,000 – $6,000. Partial eyebrow repairs may also be done, but the cost will be determined during consultation because this will depend on the amount the surgeon decides is necessary.

Scalp Hair Restoration

There are some clinics who provide scalp hair restoration procedures, also known as a scalp reduction or alopecia reduction. Done under local anaesthetics, the bald area of the scalp at the top or crown area of the head is removed and the edges of the hair-bearing skin from both sides are sewn together. This procedure usually costs around $2,000 – $3,000. While it’s considered a viable restoration option,this procedure is often considered high risk because of its potential for scarring.

GST

If you are not from Australia, you should take note that GST (Goods and Services Tax) are added to the listed price of certain goods and services. This is a broad-based tax that applies an additional 10% to most foods, services, and other items that are sold or consumed in the country. You can see this in most Australian businesses, including hair transplants.

Keep this in mind when you inquire prices at hair transplant clinics. Always ask if the listed price is before or after GST. This way, you get an accurate amount and can prepare your budget accordingly.

Can You Afford the Full Hair Transplant Cost?

While hair transplants are not covered by insurance companies, there are other options available if you want to pursue it. Most opt to take out personal and more flexible loan options to finance the procedure. However, it should be noted that these will require you to pass stringent eligibility criteria set by finance companies.

If you’re considering hair transplant surgery, contact us to map out your plan today.  Book a private consultation with Dr. Daood today.

Read More
Everything You Need to Know Ultimate Hair Transplant Guide

Everything You Need to Know: Ultimate Hair Transplant Guide

Doing your homework before undergoing any major medical procedure isn’t just a smart thing to do, but is absolutely essential. Knowing what to expect and what’s expected of you goes a long way toward achieving the best possible results.

Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about getting a hair transplant in Sydney, whether you’re still debating the merits of a hair transplant, or are already shopping around for where to have it done.

  • Answers to Common Hair Transplant Questions
  • Considerations Before Getting A Hair Transplant
  • Costs Involved in Hair Transplants
  • Preparation and Aftercare
  • Variations in Hair Transplant Procedures

Answers to Common Hair Transplant Questions

Just like any surgical procedure, a hair transplant can be intimidating—however badly you might want one, wondering about things like where the hair will come from and how much it’s going to hurt can make you hesitate.

Among the Frequently Asked Questions about hair transplants are how old you have to be, or whether you can have it done if your hair loss isn’t that bad, yet. Most surgeons don’t recommend a transplant for patients under 23, and you could actually have a transplant if your hairline is already starting to recede, depending on the surgeon’s assessment.

Other questions involve how much time it will take for results to show, and how natural the transplant will look. After all, nobody wants to have someone go up to them and say, “Hey, that’s a great-looking transplant.”

There are also gender-specific hair transplant concerns such as differences in hair loss progression and ideal donor sites for the transplant. The focus of the procedure also differs between men and women—men usually focus on their receding hairline while women focus on restoring volume on top and behind their heads.

Considerations Before Getting A Hair Transplant

Surgery isn’t usually something people have done on the fly, and a hair transplant is no exception. Even if the reasons for getting one are fairly obvious, many people wonder whether it’s a good idea to have a transplant when it comes right down to it.

In the first place, you’d have to consider whether you’re eligible for the procedure, as not everyone can get a hair transplant because of factors such as the number of donor sites and overall health. You might also be too young to get a hair transplant, as most surgeons agree that 40 and up is the ideal age.

But arguably the most important considerations before undergoing the procedure involve the reliability of the clinic where you’ll be having it done. You should think twice if clinic doesn’t have hair transplants as its speciality, or have a portfolio that showcases its work. Other warning signs include having no contact with previous patients or professional affiliations.

Costs Involved in Hair Transplants

Perhaps the most pressing consideration is how much a hair transplant costs, especially since there are a lot of things apart from the procedure itself that you’ll have to pay for. There’s the consultation, the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia fees and GST, not to mention the medications you’ll need such as antibiotics.

 

The factors that affect how much you’ll end up spending include the size of the area to be treated, the surgical technique to be used, the number of grafts to be made, and how many sessions you’ll have to undergo.

 

While it can be tempting to cut corners for cost-cutting’s sake, bear in mind that these penny-pinching ploys are not without risk—you could end up with an incompetent surgeon, or worse, surgical complications.  

 

The good news is that while hair transplants aren’t currently covered by insurance, there are payment options that can help such as loans offered by financing companies.

Preparation and Aftercare

Once you’ve settled on having the procedure and on a reputable surgeon to perform it, there are several things you’ll have to do to prepare for your hair transplant. You need to make sure you’re healthy enough to withstand surgery, and provide your surgeon with your complete medical history. Naturally, your surgeon will also have to evaluate your hair, which may include a biopsy.

Being aware of the risks involved or as the possible complications should be part of your preparation. Be sure to discuss this thoroughly with your surgeon, as well as the possibility that you might not be satisfied with the outcome of the transplant.

Be sure to prepare well for after the surgery. You will need someone to drive you home, as the anaesthesia might have lingering effects even after the surgery. Be sure not to schedule any activities that will make you sweat, or involve swimming. Your scalp is basically an open wound after the surgery, and you’ll need to keep it dry and clean to avoid infection. You may also want to take a few days off work to give yourself time to heal, so schedule around the surgery accordingly.

Variations in Hair Transplant Procedures

When people think of hair transplants, they often think of older folks and receding hairlines. But a hair transplant can be done on virtually any part of the body that grows hair.

Eyebrow hair transplants, for instance, is one such procedure that has gained popularity over the years, thanks to celebrities with fuller eyebrows. The procedure is often done by women who want bushier eyebrows, or those who want to fix eyebrows that have gone patchy due to years of overplucking.

Men who aspire for majestic beards but have been saddled with genes for baby smooth chins can now grow the beard of their dreams because of facial hair transplants. And the procedure is not limited to beards–you can have hair follicles transplanted to form goatees, mustaches, or some sick sideburns.

What all hair transplants have in common is that the procedure boils down to using two methods: follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit transplant (FUT). FUT is the traditional method for hair transplants which uses strips of skin grafts. FUE extracts individual hair follicles using a special tool, and injects them on the donor site.

Have questions that our guide hasn’t answered yet? Call us at 1300 656 236, or book an appointment for free with our hair transplant consultants.

Read More
Is Hair Transplant Really a Good Idea

Is Hair Transplant Really a Good Idea?

Hair transplant has earned its place for being among those reliable treatment for hair restoration today. However, despite its promise, this procedure has its limitations that will serve as important considerations for potential patients.

So, is a hair transplant really a good idea with the kind of follicular dilemma you have right now? Let’s tackle the matter further.

Check your expectations

As much as your eligibility for this procedure rely on the physical factors, the psychological aspect is just as important. Your surgeon will see to it that you have realistic expectations on the outcome of the procedure. Otherwise, you would not be considered a good candidate for surgery.

For instance, it is important to keep in mind that in hair transplant you have to contend with a finite amount of donor hairs. Hence, there is an apparent need to ensure that the hairs are used in an efficient manner. Therefore, you cannot just expect to keep having small surgeries to keep up with your hair loss. Aside from being impractical, you must also consider of the donor hairs if you keep on exposing your scalp to trauma.

If you fully understand what the surgery entails, what it can or cannot do, and even how long you would wait for results then you are a good candidate for a hair transplant.

Got Donor Hair?

The condition of your donor hair is a significant determining factor on whether hair transplant is the appropriate procedure for you. Those with low hair densities doesn’t make good candidates for hair transplant.

Normally, the donor hairs (also called terminal hairs) come in a uniformed diameter, but the action of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in androgenetic hair loss causes some of the terminal hairs to decrease in length and diameter too until they eventually succumb to miniaturization. These changes are first observed as thinning until it eventually leads to complete baldness. While this process may usually affect the front and top portions of the scalp, it can also wreak havoc on the donor areas. If these areas show thinning, particularly when a person is young, then a hair transplant may not be successful because the transplanted hair will continue to thin.

Men who are affected with diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA) also have an unhealthy donor supply, making them poor candidates for a hair transplant. Therefore, make sure that you ask help from a hair transplant doctor who makes the extra step to carefully assess your entire scalp. A densitometer or an equivalent instrument can help do the job since miniaturization is not easily visible to the naked eye.

Flexible Scalp

The flexibility of the scalp or looseness of the skin is called scalp laxity. This is a relatively simple requirement in determining if a hair transplant will be appropriate for you. The looser your scalp is the easier it is for the surgeon to insert the new hair follicles. Conversely, the tighter the scalp and the lower the density, the more difficult it is to harvest your donor hair or close the donor area after surgery particularly in an FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) technique. If your scalp is exceptionally tight, them a hair transplant may not be a good option for you.

Looking for Instant Results?

No one can blame you if you want results now. However, the fact of the matter is that long-lasting results take time. If you want it to happen now, there are temporary solutions, but that’s also the catch – it won’t last you very long.

Depending on other factors, hair transplant surgery results will start to become apparent during the 4th to 8th month post-op. It is only around the 12th month, or sometimes 18th month, where you can already appreciate the final outcome. It may be a longer journey than most course of action, but it can give you natural-looking results that can last longer. This may not be the right treatment for those who are looking for quick fixes.

Got Funds?

Hair transplant is considered the last resort in hair restoration owing to the fact that it is an invasive procedure. The complexity of this surgery demands skills and meticulous effort from a trained, experienced and certified surgeon. This explains why it comes at a certain price too. So, if you are interested in undergoing surgery, be sure you have the funds to see it through.

Since hair transplant has gotten so popular, it is also hounded by substandard practitioners that will offer you remarkably low prices, but with not much to show for it. Some may even tempt you with package deals where you can get a certain number of hair grafts at a low price. With all these eye-catching offers that appeal to your pockets, it is always important for potential patients to know better.

It is never wise to spend your money on cheaper treatments or packages because hair transplant is not a cookie cutter procedure. If you want to commit to surgical hair restoration be sure that you have enough funds on stash to afford a reputable surgeon and good quality results. Otherwise, it would be for your own good if you go for other measures instead.

Hair transplant cost is no joke, but when done right, it is a smart investment. Remember that if you don’t have the luxury to spend on a good surgeon, you also don’t have the luxury of donor grafts. Therefore, you must to utilize resources wisely. It would be wiser that you wait it out until you can afford a good hair transplant rather than jumping right into cheap procedures that seems too good to be true.

On the question whether hair transplant is a good idea for you, it begs every hair loss sufferer to stop and reassess their situation. The question you can answer up front is whether you can afford a reputable surgeon. Your answer can already set you towards the next step. For the other considerations mentioned above, it helps that you get professional help so you can be guided accordingly.

While it is true that hair transplant is a treatment that has left many satisfied with their results, it is not always for everybody. What you must understand is that if you want to get your money’s worth, you need to know if you are a good candidate.

Book your consultation  with Dr. Daood of the Sydney Hair Transplant today to know if this is the hair loss solution that is right for you.

Read More
Hair Loss Is Yours Genetic or a Thyroid Problem

Hair Loss: Is Yours Genetic or a Thyroid Problem?

Hair cells are some of the fastest growing cells in our body. However, for some people, it doesn’t grow fast enough leaving them bald after a certain age. Do we have genes to blame for this phenomenon or can it be thyroid hair loss? Let’s take a closer look and differentiate these two potential causes.

 

Why is this an important topic for conversation?

 

It is to understand the hair loss problem better and the type of treatment that is appropriate. You don’t want to shell thousands on hair transplant cost when your condition only needs pharmacological intervention. It does pay to be aware, and it will save you from a lot of frustration and wasted effort.

 

Androgenetic Alopecia

 

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as female or male pattern baldness, is a condition characterized by a progressive hair loss, especially of the scalp hair. It comes with distinctive patterns in women versus that of men, but in both genders, the scalp hair is the area that is severely affected. Over time, the hairline recedes forming a characteristic “M” shape. In some cases hair thinning may also start at the crown (the top portion of the head), progressing to partial to complete baldness. However, this condition rarely leads to total baldness in women.

 

Causes

 

Research found that this kind of hair loss is related to hormones, particularly an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a more potent form of testosterone. Androgens play an important role for normal sexual development in males before birth and during puberty. These hormones also holds important functions in both sexes, such as regulating hair growth and sex drive.

 

DHT has many roles too, such as the development of the penis and prostate gland. This is why it is also linked to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, and prostate cancer.

 

In men, the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase (5-AR) converts testosterone into DHT in the testes and prostate. Up to 10 percent of testosterone is converted into DHT under normal conditions. However, when things go awry and DHT formation goes overboard, is when the hair starts to get affected. Increased levels of androgens in the hair follicles can lead to a shorter hair growth cycle. It stunts its growth and it creates thinner strands. Additionally, there is also a delay in the growth of new hair to replace those that have shed.

 

In men, androgenetic alopecia can start as early as a person’s teens and the risk increases with age. In women, this kind of hair loss is most likely to occur after menopause.

 

Symptoms

 

You will notice more hairs fall on the pillow, the shower, or on your comb. However, when checking these symptoms you must take other factors into consideration because there are other reasons why people lose more hair than usual, such as childbirth, medications, or a serious illness.

 

In men, hair loss usually starts at the temples and the crown. It then progresses in an M-shaped pattern. In advanced stages, only a small rim of hair that lines the side and back of the scalp remains. In women, hair loss tends to be more diffused and better hidden. It affects the top of the head and down the middle, while the hairs along the temples and forehead remains normal.

 

Diagnosis

 

Androgenetic alopecia is usually diagnosed by its pattern and history of a similar type of hair loss affecting family members. A thorough and standardized diagnostic approach is an essential step in developing a successful therapeutic concept.

 

Treatment

 

Hair loss of this nature has the following treatments:

  • Medications

Minoxidil (Rogaine) or Finasteride (Propecia) are the two popular medications that prevent hair loss and promote new hair growth. However, this effect can be quite unpredictable from one person to the next.

  • Scalp Reduction

This procedure involves the surgical removal of strips of bald skin to decrease the size of a bald spot.

  • Hair Flaps

Using a strip of skin which contains good hair growth, it is excised from a less cosmetically important area to a more prominent one like the head. This has been considered an outdated hair restoration method because it can result in permanent shock loss (loss of some or a significant amount of existing hair) and extreme scarring.

  • Hair Transplants

A hair transplant procedure is considered the last resort in hair restoration. There are two different approaches to this treatment and these are, the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). FUT is more invasive and more prone to scarring because it involves incisions to remove a piece of scalp which contains the donor hairs. FUE, on the other hand, is less invasive because it uses a punch tool to remove the grafts directly from the scalp. These techniques can harvest a number of grafts that could go by the thousands, making it a time-consuming process, but often a successful one at best.

 

One thing worth noting about androgenetic alopecia is that it is progressive and it creates permanent results. Treatments would either have to be maintained or it has to give long-lasting results like what you can get out of a hair transplant.

 

Thyroid Hair Loss

 

The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland that is positioned in front of the lower neck. It lies along the front of the windpipe and just below the Adam’s apple. Such a small body part plays an important role by producing various hormones that are released into the bloodstream and  responsible for different body functions.

 

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormones) are just two of the different thyroid diseases. Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can eventually cause hair loss. It can affect the entire scalp with the scalp hair becoming uniformly sparse. However, thyroid hair loss can only become apparent several months after the onset of the disease itself.

 

Causes

 

The best way to address thyroid hair loss is to look at the root cause of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. With proper diagnosis, an appropriate treatment can be provided, which will ultimately address the hair loss issue.

 

  • Hyperthyroidism

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is the autoimmune disorder Grave’s disease. It is where the body makes an antibody called thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) that causes the thyroid gland to make too much thyroid hormone. This disease runs in families and it is more common in women who also display a significant amount of hair loss.

 

Toxic nodular or multinodular goiter can also result in hyperthyroidism, where nodules or lumps cause the thyroid hormone to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. High iodine consumption and Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland) can also result in the same problem.  

 

  • Hypothyroidism 

Different causes behind hypothyroidism include autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), hyperthyroidism treatment, thyroid surgery (the partial or total removal can halt or diminish hormone production), Radiation therapy, and medications.

 

In lesser instances, hypothyroidism can be caused by a pituitary disorder, a congenital disease (a defective thyroid or no thyroid gland), pregnancy, and iodine deficiency.

 

Diagnosis

 

With hyperthyroidism diagnosis can be confirmed through blood tests that measure the levels of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) in the blood.A diagnosis for hypothyroidism is done along with routine annual physical examinations since this is mostly common among older women. The same blood test will also be done because this can determine a condition called subclinical hypothyroidism which usually doesn’t have any obvious signs and symptoms, so, it may not necessarily reflect on your hair.

 

Treatment

 

One thing promising about thyroid hair loss is that it is temporary. You have to address the thyroid problem to fix the accompanying symptoms.

 

Hyperthyroidism can be treated using anti-thyroid drugs (methimazole and propylthiouracil), radioactive iodine treatment, and the surgical removal of gland. However, there are rare cases where anti-thyroid drugs, such as carbimazole and propylthiouracil can cause diffuse hair loss. Hence, it can be difficult to tell whether the hair loss is due to the effects of the thyroid overactivity or anti-thyroid drugs. There is a high probability that anti-thyroid drugs are not the cause and you can find other alternative treatments while you sort it out. Radioiodine is one treatment that does not cause hair loss.

 

For hypothyroidism, the standard treatment involves the daily use of synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Levothroid, Synthroid, etc).

 

So, whether the cause of your hair loss is genetic or as a result of a disease process, the most important step is proper diagnosis. Androgenetic alopecia is a progressive condition that lead to permanent baldness, while thyroid hair loss is reversible with proper treatment of the underlying causes.

 

If you are unsure of the kind of hair loss you are experiencing now, talk to your GP or approach a hair loss expert right away so you can already undergo the proper diagnostic tests. The earlier you address the problem, the better your chances with hair restoration.

 

For more questions, talk to Dr. Daood today of the Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic.

 

Read More
7 Factors that Affect the Total Cost of Hair Transplant in Sydney

7 Factors that Affect the Total Cost of Hair Transplant in Sydney

Hair transplant cost in Sydney is one of the many factors that can determine whether a person would go for the drastic step of surgery or opt for other options instead. If you are mulling over your budget and how you may be able to afford a procedure such as this, it is important to also be knowledgeable of the details that come into play. There is a good reason why surgical hair restoration comes at a cost, and here are 7 reasons which explain why it is so.

 

1. Consultation Fee

Expect to pay a fee for your preliminary hair transplant consultation. In Sydney, the cost varies between surgeons and where the clinic is located.

 

2. Size of the Area that Requires Treatment

Every patient who comes in presents various levels of baldness. Through a personal consultation, a surgeon can properly assess the problem and the extent of work that needs to be done. So, you should expect that there is no cookie-cutter treatment plan especially if you go with a good surgeon because they will customize their approach to your needs. The cost will vary depending on the amount of work that needs to be done based on the area that must be covered.

 

3. The Type of Sessions

Some surgeons will perform “megasessions”, while in some cases, a patient’s surgery may be divided into two sessions.

Megasessions

These are surgical sessions in hair transplant where approximately 3,000-5,000 grafts are used. It requires enormous amounts of time, quality control, and organization ability. This approximately takes about 12 hours to perform. This is considered a significant leap in surgical technology.

The advantages of megasessions include:

  1. Fewer surgeries, hence there will be less scarring on the back of the head
  2. The convenience of doing a single session instead of several sessions
  3. Results that are faster to achieve
  4. Overall cost savings for the patient

Despite the advantages these kinds of sessions were able to produce, only a few surgeons are able to perform it successfully.

Multiple Sessions

There are also chances that you may require multiple sessions for your hair transplant surgery. Hair transplant surgery is performed to cover the bald areas by harvesting the hair from donor areas and transplanting them to recipient sites. If the bald areas are not covered completely in one session, the surgeon will ask for multiple sessions. Individuals with advanced form of hair loss are most likely to require several grafts which means several sessions.

The type of approach also plays a role. If you opt for a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), then you can expect several sessions to achieve the results you want. Young patients may require more than one hair transplant sessions because baldness is a progressive condition which would call on additional coverage in the future. The surgeon will discuss this with you in detail during your consultation.

 

4. Number of Grafts Needed

Each patient comes with their own concerns and desired aesthetics. These play a part in determining the number of grafts needed. You also have to factor in the very delicate extraction process which takes skill and expertise to avoid resection and ensure graft survival. Expectedly, the more grafts that are needed the more you must pay for your surgery. This can only be determined after a surgeon has evaluated your case.

 

5. Technique Used

There are two techniques used in hair transplant surgery, the FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction). The two comes in varying levels of expertise and difficulty which also determines the cost.

FUT, or the strip method, is the traditional approach in hair transplant surgery. This involves creating an incision across the back of the scalp to remove a strip of skin which contains the donor grafts. Since the extraction process of the hair grafts are done microscopically, this is relatively easier to perform. It allows the hair technician better control and less chances of resection. The cost per graft in an FUT approach is around 7 AUD for the first 500 grafts, and it can go as low as 5.50 AUD per graft if more coverage is needed.

FUE costs more than FUT because the donor grafts are removed directly from its original location using a special punch-like tool. The results have better aesthetics since it doesn’t involve a linear scar across your scalp, but it has a high risk for resection, making it more challenging than FUT. The cost per graft is around 12 AUD to 18 AUD per graft.

 

6. Surgeon’s Fee

A surgeon’s professional fee will expectedly vary depending on the region where he is practicing, his expertise, and even his reputation. The professional fee for surgeons in Sydney may differ from that in Adelaide or Melbourne.

Surgeons will put a premium on their work, which explains why a hair transplant procedure doesn’t come cheap. So, if you ever come across someone who will market their services at a significantly lower price than the usual in your region, should already be a red flag for you. Always remember that the thousands you are paying envelopes the training, experience, expertise, and your doctor’s reputation. You just can’t ask any surgeon to perform a hair transplant on you since expertise is demanded of this procedure.

On another note, just because the surgeon charges high, doesn’t automatically mean that they offer quality results. Remember to take other factors into consideration, such the doctor’s portfolio, his aesthetics, and his reputation.

 

7. Anaesthesiologist and Aneaesthesia Fees

Typically, the anaesthesia fees are between the hospital charges and surgeon’s fees. Anaesthesiologists are paid similarly or more than the surgeon per case.  Also, the type of anaesthesia will also affect the total cost. This will be determined on the kind of surgery you will have. Generally, a hair transplant is done under local anaesthesia, which allows a patient to go home immediately after surgery. Aside from the fact that it has lesser side effects, local anaesthetics are also relatively cheaper than being put through general anaesthesia.

 

A Quick Reminder

You can find out clinics that offer hair transplant surgery in Sydney through the ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery) website. This is the best organization that will help you along when finding surgeons who keep themselves abreast of the recent technologies and advances in the field.

You may also send in your questions here and let Dr. Daood of the Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic help you with your hair loss concerns.

Read More
7 Common Questions Before Your Hair Transplant Surgery, Answered

7 Common Questions Before Your Hair Transplant Surgery, Answered

Are you planning on getting a hair transplant anytime soon? Then you may now be swimming in questions and tallying a list of concerns. Allow us to address seven important queries that most potential patients ask. We hope that this can enlighten and help you in your decision-making process.

At what age can I have surgery? When is young, “too young” for a hair transplant?

This has always been an ethical dilemma for hair transplants. Hair loss in men often starts at the frontal hairline. When the regression is obviously progressing is when the patient would start to ask for professional advice. However, approaching a frontal hairline reconstruction in younger patients should always be approached with caution and prudence.

The problem with hair transplant in a young person is that there is no solid idea of how much hair loss is going to occur over the next several years. This is why hair specialists advise patients to first undergo preventive therapy to see if the progression of the hair loss can be controlled by medications, LLLT or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy. You may have to wait for at least a year to see the results of the treatment.

However, this decision differs from doctor to doctor. Most surgeons do not recommend a hair transplant in patients younger than 23 years of age. The reason being that a definite hair loss pattern and degree of hair loss has not been established at that young age.

Is there a minimal amount of surgical hair restoration that can be done if my hair loss has not advanced yet?

Yes, there are hair transplant procedures that are done to cover small areas like scars on the scalp. Even though it is done rarely, but during these situations, the hair transplant surgeon use as little as 50-100 hair grafts all the way up to 3,000 grafts. However, if you are under 35 years of age with a noticeably receding hairline, there really is no minimum amount of work to consider. You will be committing yourself to more procedures in the future to create an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Potential patients should consider at this point that if you are now showing signs of hairline recession, what is going to happen to you tomorrow, the next month, or the next year?

You should be evaluated by a hair specialist or a hair restoration surgeon so that you can be informed or advised of all your options – medical, surgical or even doing nothing at this point in time. A personal consultation will also allow the surgeon to assess your case more carefully since each patient is unique. Your pattern of hair loss, current hair density, personal history of hair loss, and expected future hair loss based on your family’s history are all taken into consideration to address this matter alone.

What makes a natural-looking hairline?

A natural-looking hairline is where nobody ever comes up to you and says, “Wow, you had a great hair transplant”.

A natural-looking hairline is influenced by different factors like age, hereditary traits, and ethnicity. The surgeon’s expertise also plays an important role in ensuring that the new hairline will be suitable for the patient’s face and age.

Without a doubt, a natural-looking hairline is crucial to the success of surgical hair restoration. There is no technology, no matter how aggressively promoted, that can replace the skill and artistic ability of an experienced and reputable hair transplant surgeon. As the techniques advance, skilled surgeons should not only restore the previous appearance but also enhance it to make it look more aesthetically pleasing. Also remember that no two doctors, even with the same training, will produce the same results. A surgeon who is artistic and who has an understanding of proportions and aesthetic design can give you a better result. The devil is definitely in the details, so choose your surgeon wisely!

How can I avoid a pluggy look with a hair transplant?

A hair transplant that results in a pluggy look is a technical complication that caused by unskilled surgeons or hair technicians. It also stems from antiquated methods, but you can spare yourself from this trouble when you make an effort to find a hair restoration surgeon with the skill and artistic propensity.

A good outcome should go unnoticed by others. Therefore, research hair transplant surgeons extensively, and do not just pick anybody arbitrarily. Furthermore, modern techniques like the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) offer a better capacity to create natural-looking results. So, be sure to do your homework to achieve undetectable results!

How much time does it usually take for a hair transplant to show results?

Typically, no growth or very little growth can be seen before three months pass, since many of the hairs go into Telogen or the sleeping phase following surgery. It often takes 3-4 months to start growing. You can see about 60-70% of the results at the 6-month mark, while a full response can be noticed within 9-12 months. The best option would be to talk to the doctor who performed your procedure. Overall, patience is key.

Do you always have to shave before an FUE hair transplant?

In an FUE method, you will need to shave the donor site which is at the back of the scalp before your procedure. However, the good news is that the rest of the head doesn’t necessarily have to be shaved, especially in the hairline area. There is also no need for this if the recipient site is easily accessible.

If your hair is long enough at the back, you can camouflage your donor site. In fact, there are patients who are not able to tell their hair was even shaved. With the right hair length, it can be very discrete. Shaving the head may not be required, but some patients decide to cut their hair short to facilitate the procedure. The non-shave FUE technique is not offered by most hair transplant surgeons as it requires a carefully trained team to work around the existing longer hairs, plus takes somewhat longer to perform.  This is why you should express your concerns with your surgeon so you can both arrive at a treatment plan which you can be comfortable with.

Is FUE the best hair transplant technique?

The FUE technique isn’t necessarily the best – it’s just different. It is important that patients who are considering surgical hair restoration understand the unique differences between these two procedures.

The advantage with FUE is that there is no linear scar as is typical of FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), but multiple minute scars that are generally not visible. This is suitable for individuals who want to wear their hair short. With FUE it is more about answering the question of how short do you want to wear your hair.  However, you must expect that the cost of FUE is often three times the FUT hair transplant cost in Sydney.

The preference will depend on the patient. Both techniques are valuable, but the comparison of each technique and the criteria for each technique’s suitability is a complicated topic. But, you can discuss this extensively during a face-to-face consultation.

We hope that these questions were able to shed light on some of your concerns. For advice on your next step, talk to Dr. Daood of the Sydney Hair Transplant Clinic today. Whether you go for an FUE or FUT hair transplant in Sydney, we customize our approach to address your hair loss concerns. Book your consultation now, here.

Read More
Seasonal Hair Loss and How You Can Prepare for It

Seasonal Hair Loss and How You Can Prepare for It

It has been established that hair loss can be caused by different factors, but one reason comes unexpectedly – the time of year. According to recent studies, seasonal hair loss is real. If you think that a wrong diet, poor hair care, or genes are more than enough reasons to keep you on your toes, you must now count in the time of year.  But instead of cursing nature, why not take this new information to good use and be more prepared.

Normal Hair Loss

It has been established that we lose up to a hundred hair strands a day thanks to the hair growth cycle. This may seem like a substantial amount, but the loss is barely noticeable. Just like humans inhabiting the earth, each strand in your head is going through different stages in their life cycle. At any given time, about 90% of your hair is in the growth stage, while 6-8% are at rest, and it is the point where shedding occurs.

The cycle of growing and shedding is happening on top of your head with you unaware of the changes happening. As you are losing around a hundred strands per day, others are also growing in its place.

Male Pattern Baldness

If you notice your hair loss becoming more noticeable, and the affected areas taking a certain shape, this is an indication that you could be affected by male pattern baldness. Also known as androgenetic alopecia, this type of hair loss is a genetic condition that is common in men. In fact, statistics revealed that more than 50 percent of all men over the age of 50 will be affected by it to some extent.

Aside from genetics, male pattern baldness is associated with a male sex hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT causes the hair growth cycle to weaken resulting in the follicles shrinking with finer or shorter strands. Eventually the hairline recedes to form the characteristic “M” shape, while in some cases, the thinning is focused on the crown area (or the top of the head). Unfortunately for others, the condition progresses to partial or complete baldness.

Seasonal Hair Loss

Now that we are well into the “Ber” months, the leaves have fallen, the air starts to get a bit frosty than usual, and some of us notice the amount hair loss to be more obvious. If this is happening to you, a recent study confirmed that you are not imagining things.  Seasonal hair loss is real, and it could happen to anyone of us.

Researchers explained that the hair’s role is to cover the scalp and protect it from the harsh rays of the sun. This is the reason why hair growth is faster during the summer months, because it serves as an adaptive mechanism to protect the scalp from the sun and ultraviolet radiation. As the cooler season rolls around, the additional growth is no longer required the hence shedding is more intense.

What is also interesting is that even animals are affected by these seasonal variations in hair loss. It has been noted in studies with cats, rhesus monkeys and dogs. However, seasonal hair loss is not only restricted to Autumn. Some may also experience a slightly higher levels of hair loss during the Spring, although the shedding during Autumn is more noticeable.

How to Lessen or Slow Down Seasonal Hair Loss

So, what then is the implication of this study for us?

Researchers believed that the findings may help patients to better assess the effectiveness of their current hair loss treatments. This may also come as a relief to some individuals, who will now take this factor into consideration and not cause undue panic. Aside from being a temporary phenomenon, there is something that can be done about it to lessen the damage.

Here are some tips that can help you hold on to your strands:

  • Castor oil

The restorative power the castor oil has been relied on since ancient times. It has a high concentration of vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant. It promotes hair regeneration as it nourishes the roots and fortifies each strand.

  • A gentle massage

To complement the benefits of castor oil, or simply just a soothing exercise for your head, a gentle massage promotes better blood circulation to the area. This means that your care can be properly oxygenated. A simple 2-3- minute massage can help counteract the seasonal hair loss phenomenon.

  • Avoid heavy styling products

Styling products can be very harsh on your hair which could add to its vulnerability at this time. It is advised that you steer clear from sticky styling products such as mousses or hair gels. Don’t worry, this is not something you have to give up in the long term. It’s just a temporary adjustment to help your hair along in this rough season.

  • Let your hair down

Cut your hair some slack. You only want to lose the hairs that are naturally read to fall off. Styling it with tight braids and ponytails can damage your fragile hair. This can cause even more hair to fall as you also increase the risk of damaging otherwise healthy hair.

When Should You Be Worried?

If your hair continues to fall out ever after six weeks, you could consider other potential factors that is causing your hair loss. It could be stress, any new medication you are taking, diet, etc.  If you think the amount of hair loss has risen at an alarming rate, it is time to consult a professional, so you can get specialised treatment that will help control or slow down the shedding.

As Sydney is slowly enveloped by a chilly cloud this holiday season, give your hair the extra care it deserves. But if you think that your hair is showing signs of vulnerability with the changing of the seasons, or something else entirely, get expert advice at the Sydney Hair Transplant clinic today. Book an appointment now, and let’s see how we can help you in your follicular dilemmas.

Read More
Medical Issues and Hair Transplant Surgery What You Need to Know to Keep You Safe

Medical Issues and Hair Transplant Surgery: What You Need to Know to Keep You Safe

Before you go in for surgery, it is important to discuss a range of medical issues with your doctor or surgeon. Remember, you are not coming in to simply tape those new strands of hair on your head. A hair transplant is an invasive treatment that your body should be able to deal with to achieve successful results. Here is a list of concerns you need to cover during a consultation.

Physical Health

Before an operation, a physical examination is important to assess whether you are physically fit for surgery. A hair transplant may not be as invasive as other cosmetic procedures, like breast augmentation or tummy tucks, but the fact remains that it disrupts skin integrity. In line with this purpose, the surgeon will prescribe that you undergo blood tests, cardiac testing, or pulmonary clearance. This step is essential in minimizing the risk for complications like excessive bleeding or infection at the surgical site.

Your general health can also determine how you recover after surgery. For the new hair grafts to grow healthy, you need to have a healthy system to nourish it from the inside. Consequently, good physical health will also allow incisions to heal faster.

Diabetic patients, for instance, are given special instructions because the disease can impair their ability to heal properly. Prominent factors that affect the rate of healing in a diabetic include poor circulation, immune system deficiency, and infection.  This is the reason why a personal consultation is always necessary so that you can discuss your specific concerns with your surgeon.

Medical History

Gathering your medical history is also an important step because this helps the surgeon to be aware of pre-existing conditions and surgery you have had in the past. This influences decisions about the operation you will have or the type of anaesthetic to be used.  A complete medical history record should include information like:

  • Diagnosis
  • Known Allergies
  • Current Medications
  • Past and Present Illnesses
  • Previous Surgery
  • Family Medical History
  • Current History
  • Medication History
  • Immunization Records
  • Insurance Information

Hair Evaluation

A hair evaluation is a step in the surgical process that is unique to hair transplant surgery. The information gathered will help the surgeon determine the extent of your hair loss, the history of hair loss in your family, and any prior surgical or medical treatments for hair loss that you have had. Furthermore, this will also help the surgeon map out a surgical plan based on the unique characteristics (e.g. hair distribution, angle, or direction) he observed upon assessment.

These hair evaluation methods are grouped into three main categories: non-invasive methods (e.g. questionnaires, daily hair counts, standardized wash test, hair weight), semi-invasive methods (e.g. trichogram or unit area trichogram), and invasive methods (e.g. scalp biopsy).  When interpreted with caution, these methods are valuable tools in making a diagnosis and monitoring.

Risks and Possible Complications

A realistic approach to hair transplant surgery is to consider the possible complications aside from its obvious benefits. Knowing the risks will help you weigh whether a hair transplant is right for you or not.  Just because it has been a highly successful surgical procedure, doesn’t mean that it is your best option. You need to weigh the risks against its potential benefits to see if it is worth going into.

Potential complications associated with hair transplant include, infection, excessive bleeding, swelling, scarring, itching and numbness.  Dissatisfaction is also possible with any type of cosmetic surgery, although this is avoidable.

These matters need to be discussed to avoid exposing the patients to these risks and potential complications. On one hand, this information can also determine if you are a good candidate or not.

Medications and Supplements

If you are taking medications, tell the surgeon what you have been taking on a regular basis, or have taken recently. Over-the-counter preparations and even supplements must be disclosed because these can also put you at risk during and after the surgery. For example, supplements with gingko biloba may increase the risk of bleeding. Even your vitamin E supplement poses a certain risk for bleeding.

Past Reactions to Medications

If you have had any bad reactions, or have experienced certain side effects with a certain medication, inform your surgeon during consultation. This warning should include anaesthetics or any solution used during surgery. Any reaction to shellfish should also be disclosed because in some surgeries, an Iodine solution would be applied on the surgical site, which has similar components.

Your Habits and Health

Smoking and drinking too often is a habit that can steer you away from surgical success. As a matter of fact, these habits can increase your risk for complications.

The nicotine in cigars is a vasoconstrictor (constricts blood vessels) which reduces nutritional blood flow to the skin. A study showed that slower healing has been observed clinically in smokers with wounds that are a result of trauma, disease, and surgical procedures.  Compared to non-smokers, smokers also have a greater degree of complications following breast surgery. This is why smokers are advised to stop smoking at least 4 weeks prior to surgery, or even when recovering from it.

Alcohol, especially when consumed in copious amounts regularly, can worsen medical conditions and also delay wound healing. The presence of alcohol in large quantities in the body can damage the immune system increasing the risk for infections, bleeding, and other complications. Binge drinking alcohol significantly reduces the levels of key components of the immune system that are involved in healing.

Physical preparedness is definitely an important aspect for you to consider in deciding on a hair transplant procedure. Not every patient comes in with a squeaky clean bill of health, so we ensure that we have the right candidates before we even move forward with surgery. This is why we want to talk to you so that we know how best we can approach any existing issues that may affect the procedure or its outcome.

Talk more about your hair transplant concerns with Dr. Daood today. The Sydney Hair Transplant team aims at giving each patient that walks through our doors a customized approach to hair transplants. We ensure that everybody is given the care they deserve to achieve the results they desire. Book your appointment today, and let’s map out a plan suited to your unique needs.

Read More
error

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)