Hair Restoration Options: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Approaches

Published on: Nov 10, 2023 / Last Updated on: Nov 10, 2023 / REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Hair Restoration Options: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Approaches

Hair loss can be a distressing experience for many individuals, impacting self-confidence and overall well-being. Fortunately, various hair restoration options, from surgical to non-surgical procedures, are available today. Deciding on the best approach depends on personal preferences, budget, and the severity of hair loss. In this article, we'll explore the differences between surgical and non-surgical hair treatment options to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss, also known as "alopecia" is common condition. While it's more prevalent in older adults, anyone can experience it, including children. Various factors can lead to hair thinning or baldness, including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and specific medical conditions. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), losing 50 to 100 hairs in one day is normal. Excessive hair shedding occurs when the body loses a noticeably higher number of hairs daily.

Types and Causes of Hair Loss

There are different types of hair loss, each with its unique causes.

  • Androgenic alopecia is the most common type, is hereditary, and can affect both men and women, leading to gradual hair thinning or loss.

  • Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition, causes bald patches on the scalp or other body areas.

  • Anagen effluvium results from factors like chemotherapy and reverses once the treatment ceases.

  • Telogen effluvium is a hair loss condition resulting from a disturbance in the hair growth cycle. Stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or certain medications can cause this.

  • Tinea capitis, or scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection causing scaly, itchy patches that may lead to hair shedding and scarring if left untreated.

  • Finally, traction alopecia stems from tight hairstyles, like braids or ponytails, which exert excessive pressure on hair, potentially causing loss.

Identifying the type of hair loss and its underlying causes is essential for effective management and treatment.

Surgical Hair Restoration

Hair Transplant

Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure where hair follicles are taken from one part of the head (typically the back or sides of the scalp) and transplanted to areas experiencing hair loss or thinning. This procedure provides natural-looking results and is considered a long-term solution. The average industry cost of a hair transplant in 2023 is $8,433. However, the price can go as high as $25,000.

Hair transplant candidates typically include men experiencing male pattern baldness, women with thinning hair, and individuals with partial hair loss due to burns or scalp injuries. On the other hand, hair replacement may not be suitable for women with extensive scalp-wide hair fall, those lacking adequate donor hair sites, individuals prone to keloid scarring, or those with alopecia caused by medications like chemotherapy. There are two main types of hair transplant:

  • Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
    The FUE method extracts hair follicles from the donor area without taking a skin strip. This hair treatment leaves minimal scarring and allows for a quicker recovery.

  • Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
    FUT, also known as the strip method, involves removing a strip of skin from the donor area and extracting individual hair follicles from it. While it may leave a linear scar, it is a highly effective method for hair restoration.

Non-Surgical Hair Restoration

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments include various medications and foams applied directly to the scalp. These products stimulate hair growth and slow the progression of baldness. Standard options include minoxidil and finasteride.

A study published by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery on the effectiveness of 5% minoxidil in treating male pattern baldness indicated that out of 743 men, 7.5% found it very effective for stimulating new hair growth, 55% found it compelling, and 31.3% thought it was moderately effective. In comparison, only 6.2% found it ineffective.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy for hair

PRP therapy for hair growth involves drawing a small amount of the patient's blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it into the scalp. The growth factors in the platelets help stimulate hair regrowth and improve hair density. PRP injections for hair loss can also be combined with Polydioxanone (PDO) Threads and Minoxidil Alternative Compound Serum to stimulate hair growth. The average industry cost of PRP for hair loss is $1,791, but it can reach up to $4,000.

Read our article to know how PRP is an effective treatment for hair fall, learn the benefits, side effects, and much more about this treatment.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Therapy

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) for hair growth is a cutting-edge hair loss treatment that uses the body's healing properties to stimulate hair regrowth. The process involves drawing a small blood sample and then centrifuging it to extract platelets and white blood cells. This PRF concentrate is naturally activated and injected into the scalp, stimulating dormant hair follicles and promoting new growth. PRF is a safe and effective option for hair alopecia with minimal downtime.

Learn how PRF is better than other hair fall therapies in our article ''Why PRF Treatment is a Game-Changer for Hair Loss.''

Takeaway

Hair restoration is a personal journey, and the choice between surgical and non-surgical approaches depends on factors like the extent of hair loss, budget, and personal preferences. Surgical options like hair transplantation offer permanent and often more dramatic results, but they come with higher costs and some associated risks. Non-surgical treatments like medications, PRP, and PRF therapy provide more accessible and less invasive options, but they may require ongoing maintenance and have varying degrees of effectiveness. It's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before choosing a hair regrowth method. They can assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate option.

At M Health & Beauty, we recognize the significance and sensitivity of boosting hair growth. Our array of safe and proven hair restoration options, such as PRF Hair Treatment, are designed to assist you in regaining your hair. Contact us today or visit our clinic to discover how we can help you!