Hair Loss Treatment Options

By D.J. Verret, MD

Hair loss does not have to be the norm anymore. For patient suffering from androgenic alopecia there are treatments that can be undertaken. Not the least of these treatments is hair transplant surgery. Using a patients own hair, a natural appearing, more youthful hairline is available.

Before determining what treatment is appropriate for hair loss, the cause of the alopecia must be determined. Visiting with a primary care doctor is the first stop on the road to treatment for alopecia. After completing a thorough physical examination and history, the physician may need to perform additional tests to determine the exact cause. Once the cause is determined, treatment plans can be developed to address the exact cause.

Once the cause of hair loss is determined, treatment can be undertaken. For patient suffering from androgenic alopecia, medications, herbal supplements, topically applied oils, hair replacement systems, and hair transplant surgery are all options for treatment. There are currently two approved medications to treat hair loss in the United States - finasteride and minoxidil. These are sometimes used in conjunction with hair transplants to create optimal lasting results.

Hair restoration through transplant can create very natural appearing hairlines. Follicular unit grafting takes hair which is not affected by androgens and transplants individual follicles into the areas of hair loss. The hair will not fall out due to androgenic alopecia and results are not the plugs of years ago.

Hair transplants are performed in an office setting with local anesthesia. Procedures can last several hours but patients can take breaks at various points in the process. Though the procedures themselves are not painful, the injection of the local medication can be uncomfortable though it only lasts for a few seconds. Patients can even drive themselves to and from the office for the surgery. - 30516

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