Dr. Kahen, how has hair restoration changed over the past few years? Are there any new procedures today that promote a quicker and fuller head of hair?
There is now no linear scaring in follicular unit extraction technique and the recovery is much quicker. My technique in particular—using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) in tumescence during the procedure—improves the growth of the follicles and reduces scarring. A slightly quicker recovery is another result of PRP in tumescence. I’ve found this technique to provide my patients with more benefits for their hair restoration procedures.
Who is the best candidate for hair restoration?
The best candidates for hair restoration surgery are:
Men who have been losing their hair due to male pattern baldness for more than five years or who have progressed to a class 3 or above.
Men with realistic expectations who understand that their hair loss may continue to progress even if they are taking prescription medication to stop the progression.
Men who have been balding for many years and who’s balding pattern has stabilized.
Men and women who have lost hair due to trauma or injuries.
Men and women who have lost hair due to other cosmetic procedures such as facelifts or electrolysis.
Typically—how long does it take to achieve a fuller head of hair—and what is the average cost?
It takes about eight months to a year to see the complete results and the average cost is approximately $6000, however it varies depending on the procedure—since every patient has different needs and may require more or less grafts. The cost also depends on what method is used: Follicular Unit Extraction or Strip Harvest.
What should a potential candidate be looking for when choosing a hair restoration clinic.
It’s important to find a clinic that is exclusive to hair restoration. Many cosmetic clinics harbor surgeons that perform different types of surgeries whereas a clinic that only focuses on hair restoration will have highly skilled surgeons with more experience. These surgeons have more practice in the field and are often more knowledgeable in knowing what the patient will benefit from the most.
Is there anything we haven’t asked you, Dr. Kahen, that you would like to share with our readers?
I’d love to share my recent development on an innovative new technique where platelet rich plasma (PRP) is incorporated into tumescence during hair restoration surgery.
Tumescence in surgical hair restoration is a state of temporary plumping and swelling the skin by injecting normal saline fluid into the fat layer of the scalp for the purpose of minimizing blood loss, making skin more rigid to facilitate the incision without damaging hair follicles, helping the doctor avoid damage to deeper blood vessels and nerves, and to offer prolonged postoperative anesthesia.
My technique is different because in addition to saline solution I amalgamate PRP in tumescence to achieve even greater results. After extensive research, I found this technique offers numerous benefits for hair restoration surgery. This technique’s main asset is that it increases the survival rate of the transplanted hair follicles. Having a high follicle survival rate provides optimal results for hair restoration surgery.
PRP in tumescence also has been shown to accelerate wound healing and tissue repair, speed up hair growth, stimulate thin (miniaturized) hair to grow into thicker (terminal) hairs, and minimizes potential scarring. This technique creates an enormous difference in results. So far I am the only doctor using PRP in tumescence for hair restoration surgery.
To learn more about hair restoration and treatment call
Dr. Kahen at 888-902-1084 or visit: beverlyhillshr.com.
