Understanding Hair Loss Treatments

Hair Loss Treatments

Men who experience hair loss frequently wonder if it is possible to stimulate hair growth. Medical professionals who specialize in hair loss treatments recommend various approaches to address this common issue, including the following:

Medication

Many patients attain successful results with medications that promote hair growth. One example is Finasteride, available in pill form. This drug effectively prevents additional hair loss and stimulates regrowth, though it will stop working when patients discontinue taking it.

Minoxidil is ideal for younger men who are starting to experience thinning hair. This liquid or foam is available in generic form under the brand name Rogaine. This treatment can be slow to take effect, requiring several months to see results. 

As with many medications, some people may experience side effects, including:

  • Rashes
  • Redness
  • Itchiness
  • Erectile dysfunction

Surgery

Several surgical options exist to address hair loss. Follicular unit transplantation involves removing a strip of the scalp with dense hair growth from the back of the head. The scar it leaves is minimal and hidden by hair growth. Hair follicles from the strip are transplanted to areas with sparse growth near the front of the head via multiple small incisions, each supporting up to four strands. This method is beneficial for patients with extensive hair loss.

Follicular unit extraction or also known as a FUE hair transplant involves shaving the back of the head to reveal hair follicles which the surgeon then extracts. The surgeon then transplants the follicles to donor sites of limited hair growth using small incisions. 

Pain, swelling, and soreness may follow both procedures, but anti-inflammatory drugs and pain reducers ease discomfort. Surgeons also may prescribe Finasteride or Minoxidil to promote hair growth. 

Scalp reduction is a bit more involved and ideal for hair loss at the top and back of the head. The procedure requires the removal of the portion of the scalp that does not produce hair. A surgeon stretches hair-producing sections of the scalp to cover the area of hair loss where the scalp is removed. Scalp reduction can cause the scalp to feel tight for several months during recovery. 

Addressing Underlying Conditions

Hair loss is sometimes due to underlying conditions such as fungal infections, thyroid disease, and vitamin deficiency. Treatment to address such concerns can reverse or halt hair loss that is not due to a genetic predisposition. Hair loss can affect your self-esteem, but various treatments are available to promote hair growth. After going through this process of a hair transplant, there is a good chance that you will be satisfied with your new hair.