Patient FAQ
You may be wondering how to know if you’re a candidate for one of our procedures or the types of results to expect. Our comprehensive FAQ has answers to some of the most common questions you may want to ask.
Candidates for hair restoration surgery are those individuals with hair loss that have sufficient donor hair on the back of the scalp to transplant into the frontal balding areas. The best candidates are those men and women with only frontal or partial hair loss and with adequate donor hair. Dr. Normington will assess the amount of coverage needed to help give you the appearance you desire.
Hair transplantation is a process in which hair is taken from the back of the head and replaced in areas where hair loss has occurred. The NeoGraft device uses a special technology that is able to quickly remove the hair follicles from the back of the head and implant them to balding areas. NeoGraft uses a controlled pneumatic pressure to slide out the graft smoothly, so there is no pulling or twisting (which can risk damaging the graft.) Because the NeoGraft transplant is faster than other, out-of-date methods, the grafts can be re-implanted sooner, keeping them more robust and increasing the success of the grafting process.
Unlike the old fashioned “punch grafting” technique that often produces an altered texture or unnatural straight lines (corn row) of hair appearance, NeoGraft has dramatically improved the results of hair restoration surgery. Grafting sessions are designed to replace the lost hair, refine the thinning hairline and provide a healthy and natural appearance. Results will vary depending upon your personal level of baldness.
The science behind grafting is quite simple. Hair follicles are taken from the hair at the back of the head that is genetically programmed to continue to grow. The follicles that hold your transplanted hair are living tissues that grow cyclically. Like normal hair growth, transplantation is an ongoing process that requires a commitment of time. Once the hair follicle has been implanted into the balding area, the grafted hair should stay in place for about two to three weeks before shedding. After shedding, the new growth should begin in 3-4 months; this is normal and is an important part of the new hair growth process. After that time period, the hair should continue to grow normally; your result should look healthy and natural.
Most men start to develop male pattern baldness at approximately 40-45 years of age. For women, they may reach the age of 55-60 before their balding pattern manifests. Hair that is transplanted from the back of the head should maintain its longevity. Hair loss does not stop after a transplantation. Some people will need continuing maintenance, and further treatments may be required, particularly if your balding patterns continue with age. Progressive hair loss or the desire for more density may require more transplants. An estimate of balding pattern and the number of procedures needed will be discussed during your consultation.
Rogaine and Propecia are the only drugs approved by the FDA to treat pattern baldness (hair loss resulting from hereditary causes). These treatments can reduce further hair loss, but cannot restore lost hair. Dr. Normington can discuss if these treatments are right for you.
Rogaine (topical minoxidil) is a topical solution that is applied by directly rubbing it onto the scalp where hair growth is desired. Only about 10% to 14% of the people who try this lotion experience hair growth. However, Rogaine lotion can help to slow hair loss.
Propecia (finasteride) is the first pill that can treat male pattern hair loss. Like all prescription products, it should be given under a doctor's care. While it is effective, if treatment is discontinued, results may not be maintained.
FUE hair transplantation requires that the donor site hair must be short in order to harvest the hairs which will be transplanted. If you have long hair, Dr. Normington can determine if the donor area can be hidden. In a given area, not all the hair is transplanted, so the remaining hair will grow in and fill the area naturally.
Those doctors have not invested in the technology that might improve their patients' results.
Dr. Normington has evaluated the ARTAS robotic hair transplant system and is pleased that it uses FUE. The doctor does not believe that the FUE harvesting results are better than his experienced team using Neograft, and does not believe that the increased costs of the robot are of any benefit to his patients