Hair Replacement Question & Answer

What is Hair Transplantation?

This a procedure in which hair follicles are surgically transferred from the back and sides of the scalp to the balding areas in the front and top of the scalp.

What are the latest techniques in this procedure?

Follicular unit transplantation with strip harvesting and microscopic dissection comprise the most advanced techniques available today.

What is follicular unit transplantation?

Hair follicles are naturally organized into small groupings containing 1-4 follicles. This new technique involves microscopically dissecting out these units and transplanting them into needle holes in the balding areas. This gives the best yield of hair growth because the anatomical structure is left intact and the most natural result because the natural organization of follicles is preserved.

What is strip harvesting?

A strip of scalp tissue is taken from the back of the scalp for dissection into the follicular units and the donor area is sutured together in a straight line closure. This leaves the least noticeable scar in the back and can easily be covered by existing hair.

Is microscopic dissection necessary?

Since the follicular units are so small and easily damaged we feel the tremendous visibility provided by the dissecting microscopic minimizes damage to the follicles and will give the best yield.

Is it permanent?

The hair in the back of the scalp is genetically programmed to remain the longest. Most men will always retain the rim of hair in the back and along the sides. Transplanted hair taken from these areas will remain as long as the hair in the area it was taken from.

Can women have hair transplants?

Many forms of hair loss in women can also be improved with follicular unit transplantation. This procedure has become very popular for women with thinning hair.

Is the procedure painful?

The only discomfort one should experience is the temporary stinging sensation produced by the injection of the local anesthetic similar to what one feels at the dentist. There should be no other pain during the procedure. Medication is provided to help minimize any discomfort.

Can medical treatment for hair loss be combined with hair transplantation?

Medical treatments such as Propecia and Rogaine can be used in conjunction with hair transplantation. These therapies help to stabilize the hair loss process and can prevent or slow the progression to more advanced stages of baldness.

What are Dr. Schauder's qualifications?

Dr. Schauder has been performing hair transplantation procedures since completing a cosmetic surgery fellowship dedicated to hair transplantation in 1991. He trained with the well respected pioneer in the field, Bluford Stough M.D. and his son Dowling Stough M.D. He is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. He has published several articles and given several talks on hair replacement surgery. He is a member of the International Society for Hair Restoration Surgeons, American Society for Hair Replacement Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.