Ask the Plastic Surgeon (7)

Answer: There are many types of hair loss, but the male pattern baldness you are experiencing is hereditary. Unfortunately, you received the short straw on the genes. There are several medications available to help you slow the loss and even regain some of the hair on the back of your scalp. Some are over-the-counter medications, while others require a prescription. You should visit a qualified physician for these options; it is a good place to start. Your surgical option is a hair grafting. Hair grafting today is a standard procedure in the hands of experienced surgeons. It is not the old "hair plugs" that everyone fears. The procedure has become refined and gives a natural hairline that you will not lose. The terminology used today is "single follicular grafting": this has replaced micro-hair transplantation to give the most natural appearance. The procedure can be performed in an afternoon under a local anesthetic. The grafted hair will take several months to begin growing, but it is well worth the effort to have natural-looking and permanent hair growth. More than one surgical session may be required. A consultation with an experienced, board-certified surgeon to discuss your options is recommended.