Male Hair Loss
How old were you when you first noticed your hair thinning? For some of you the answer may be in your early teens while others might have started seeing hair thinning in their twenties. Either way, the sooner you start treatment the better.
Oral finasteride (Propecia) and topical minoxidil (Rogaine) are both effective FDA approved for treatments for hair loss in men. Oral finasteride (Propecia) and topical minoxidil (Rogaine) are both effective FDA approved for treatments for hair loss in men. They can be valuable in preventing further thinning and in some patients can help regrow and thicken hairs. Don’t expect results overnight, but most men will see significant improvement over a 1-2 year period (see before/afters with medical treatment only). With ongoing medical treatment men can hold onto the hairs they have and prevent the miniaturization of existing follicles.
For men who have already lost hair, hair transplantation offers more dramatic results.
Hair transplantation can replace large areas of hair loss, fortify diffuse thinning, or bring forward parts of the hairline. Men with thinning in the crown (vertex) can also benefit. Our patients are very happy when they see what a difference more density makes. Because transplanted hair takes 8-12 months to grow in, no one has to know that a transplant is how it happened!
We use the Norwood-Hamilton pattern to describe the degree of hair loss in men. This also helps guide how many follicular units are needed for hair transplantation. Norwood-Hamilton pattern used to determine the degree of hair loss in men Men who are a Norwood I-V will benefit from 1000-3000 follicular units. However as the hairline moves back, it may be necessary to add additional follicular units. It is essential to have a consultation in person to assess your degree of hair loss and needs for hair transplant surgery.
The surgical plan should be one that will appear natural both in the short term and the long term. During the consultation your goals and expectations will be discussed fully.