Health & Medical Hair Health,Hair Loss

Consumer's Guide to Hair Replacement

    Surgery

    • Surgery may be the most effective method for treating hair loss but it also the most expensive. Hair replacement surgery can range anywhere between $2,500 and $20,000 depending on your case. Not everyone is a candidate for surgery as it is usually only effective for patients who have healthy hair growth at the back and sides of their head.

      Grafts or flaps are usually taken from the healthier areas where there is still hair growth and transplanted to the balding areas of your scalp. It is important that you discuss expectations with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure so that they can help give you a realistic picture of the results you can expect.

      If you have very little hair or are completely bald, hair replacement surgery is not a likely option for you. If you have minor pattern hair loss, expect results within two or months after surgery. Before hiring a surgeon, research their work history and perform a reference check.

    Topical Treatments

    • Drugs and topical treatments are a more economical approach to treating hair loss, but results vary and are often only temporary. If you are considering medication as part of your hair replacement therapy, you should consult your doctor and have them prescribe an FDA-approved product such as Minoxidil or Finasteride. Minoxidil (also known as Rogaine) is a topical treatment that is applied to the scalp and Finasteride (also known as Propecia) is an oral medication. Hair replacement drugs typically cost between $100 and $500 dollars. Although both of these treatments may slow hair loss and encourage new hair growth, they are both dose dependent; if you stop taking the medications, hair loss will resume.

    Hair Replacement Systems

    • Attachable hair pieces are another option for treating hair loss. The quality and appearance of hair pieces has improved since they first emerged on the market. When considering a hair system, you will need to choose between a stock system and a custom hair system.

      Stock systems are mass produced according to the most common hair colors and loss patterns so finding a true fit is challenging. Stock systems are significantly cheaper than custom hair systems which are designed specifically to fit your head, match your hair color and subtly cover bald areas. Stock replacement systems typically range between $200 and $500, while custom systems generally cost between $1,000 and $2,000.

Leave a reply