Hair Restoration Surgery: Know the Pros and Cons

(NUI) - Hair transplantation surgery is regaining popularity, thanks to significant innovations in the procedure.

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, 32,616 procedures were performed by AACS member surgeons in 2003. This number is a 1.45 percent increase from the previous year, but only represents a portion of the total number of procedures performed in the United States.

Here are some facts about hair restoration from doctors Robert True and Robert Dorin who specialize in treating hair loss:

Permanent hair restoration

The most advanced procedure in permanent hair restoration is follicular unit hair transplantation. During this procedure, the surgeon places up to 2,500 hair transplants into areas of baldness. These micro skin grafts are prepared using hair from a donor strip taken from the sides and back of the head.

Because this technique precisely reproduces the natural architecture of the hair, the results are natural and undetectable, making them popular with public and media personalities.

"It's one operation they've got down pat. Nobody has a clue I had it done until I tell them. Quite frankly, I don't mind telling people I had it done. Who wants to be bald?" said Comedian Dennis Miller in a recent article by Yahoo! Entertainment.

Supplemental treatment

In addition to hair transplantation, drug therapy with Propecia and Rogaine can be effective in controlling progression of balding. When combined with hair transplantation, a full head of hair can be maintained. The cost of a hair transplant procedure averages $5,000, and Propecia costs about $50 to $60 per month. Neither is covered by insurance.

Hair transplantation is not for everyone

Patients must have sufficient donor hair to benefit from the procedure. Although it is a safe minor outpatient procedure, hair transplantation includes a slight risk of local sensation loss and scar formation. Therefore, people with some skin conditions and general medical conditions are precluded. Most surgeons do not recommend surgical treatment for patients under 25, but treatment can be successful for those age 60 and beyond. Smokers may grow less hair than nonsmokers.

After the procedure

Most people who undergo the procedure have to take time off from work for up to two weeks to avoid detection that the surgery was performed. Generally after that time, there is little visibility in the transplanted area and the patient may resume most, if not all, activities. Transplanted hair takes 10 to 12 months to completely develop. Some patients need further treatment to keep pace with progression of hair loss.

For More Information:

For additional information, go to http://www.elliotttrue.com/.

Article courtesy of www.newsusa.com.